Ceylon Ironwood

Location in MGP:

Common Name: Ceylon Ironwood

Scientific Name: Mesua ferrea

Points of Interest:

Ceylon Ironwood is commonly planted along roadsides due to its beautiful red-orange young leaves, which add a splash of color to the landscape. Its wood is so dense and heavy that it will still sink in water after being dried. 
The hard timber is utilized in constructing railway cross-ties, building of boats, tool handles and mine props. 
The leaves have been used to treat fever, conjunctivitis and leprosy. The stamens and seed oil have been traditionally used as medicine to help control excessive hemorrhage. 

The fruit is edible and the oil from the seeds has been used for the production of soap. 

(National Parks Board, 2009)

Ceylon Ironwood

Trunk

Leaves

Reference:

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