Simpoh Ayer

Location in MGP:

Common Name: Simpoh Ayer

Scientific Name: Dillenia suffruticosa

Points of Interest:

The Simpoh Ayer has far-reaching taproots to reach underground water. Hence the presence of these trees may indicate an available underground water source.

Its timber is not very useful because it is difficult to handle and process.

It is a hardy plant that is fast growing and is one of the very few plants that can germinate and grow on white sands. The red arils surrounding the seeds provide a delectable treat to birds which unknowingly help to disperse the seeds. 

The large leaves can either be used to wrap food like tempeh, or curled into shallow cones to hold traditional 'fast food' like rojak.

(National Parks Board, 2009)

Simpoh Ayer

Leaf

Trunk



Reference:

National Parks Board. (2009). Trees of Our Garden City: A Guide to the Common Trees of Singapore. Singapore: National Parks Board.