Scorodocarpus (Malay 'kulim') is a monotypic genus of plant in the family Olacaceae. It has also been classified in the family Strombosiaceae. The generic name is from the Greek meaning "garlic fruit", referring to the smell of the fruit. As of April2025[update], Plants of the World Online recognises the single species Scorodocarpus borneensis. The specific epithet borneensis means "of Borneo".

Description

Scorodocarpus borneensis grows as a tree up to 40 metres (130ft) tall with a trunk diameter of up to 80 centimetres (31in). The fissured bark is grey to dark red or brown. The flowers are white. The round fruits are green and measure up to 5cm (2in) long. The fruits have a garlic smell and are cooked and eaten in Borneo. The tree's durable hard wood is locally used in construction.

Distribution and habitat

Scorodocarpus borneensis grows naturally in Peninsular Thailand, Sumatra, the Lingga Islands, Peninsular Malaysia and Borneo. Its habitat is mixed dipterocarp forests, occasionally in seasonally flooded forests.