Malay Lac Tree Lac tree
Schleichera oleosa
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Pl. 70FE — Schleichera oleosa
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IOverview
Overview
The Malay Lac Tree, also known as Schleichera oleosa, is a large deciduous tree native to the tropical regions of Asia, including Andaman Islands, Assam, Bangladesh, Cambodia, India, Jawa, Laos, Lesser Sunda Islands, Maluku, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Sulawesi, Thailand, and Vietnam. This versatile plant thrives in various soil types—ranging from light sandy to heavy clay—and can tolerate both dry and moist conditions, making it adaptable to different habitats. It is known for its edible parts, which include the fruit, leaves, and shoots. The Malay Lac Tree is valued not only for its culinary uses but also for its ornamental appeal due to its large size, capable of reaching up to 30 meters in height. Its ability to grow in partial sun to full sun makes it a resilient addition to gardens and landscapes.
Quick answers
What is Malay Lac Tree Lac tree?
The Malay Lac Tree, also known as Schleichera oleosa, is a large deciduous tree native to the tropical regions of Asia, including Andaman Islands, Assam, Bangladesh, Cambodia, India, Jawa, Laos, Lesser Sunda Islands, Maluku, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Sulawesi, Thailand, and Vietnam.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
The Malay Lac Tree thrives in full to partial sun and prefers moist to dry conditions, making it adaptable to various environments. It grows best in light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay) soil types. This tree is hardy in zones 10-12, though it can be found naturally in a wide range of regions including Andaman Islands, Assam, Bangladesh, Cambodia, India, and more. For propagation, the Malay Lac Tree can be grown from seeds or cuttings. Its edible parts include fruit, leaves, and shoots, making it a versatile plant for both ornamental and culinary use.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Dry, Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
10-12
Mature size
30.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Malay Lac Tree Lac tree for the first time
8steps
Start with a Malay Lac Tree to experience growing a tropical tree from scratch.
- 1
What you'll need
A young Malay Lac Tree sapling, well-draining soil, and a large container or planting space.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring when the weather is warm and stable.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use a mix of light sandy soil, medium soil, and heavy clay soil. Ensure good drainage for moisture control.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant the sapling carefully, ensuring not to damage the roots. Water thoroughly after planting.
- 5
First two weeks
Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Place in a sunny spot and avoid direct midday sun for now.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, especially during dry spells. Provide partial shade to full sun as needed.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune young shoots and leaves to encourage a bushy shape. Harvest fruits for culinary use if desired.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in full sun without partial shade, neglecting drainage, and not protecting from pests.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:FruitLeavesShoots
Edible uses: Oil
Other uses:Fire starterDyeAnimal feedHairLightingoilTanninLumber
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
15 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
15 native · 0 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 15 native
Asia9 regions
native (9)BangladeshCambodiaIndiaLaosMyanmarNepalSri LankaThailandVietnam
Broader regions
native:Andaman Is., Jawa, Lesser Sunda Is., Maluku, Sulawesi
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
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Companion planting
Growing zone
XII
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