Kepel

The kepel fruit, scientifically known as Stelechocarpus burahem, is a tropical fruit native to Southeast Asia. Here is a brief description of the kepel fruit plant:

1. **Botanical Information:**
– **Scientific Name:** Stelechocarpus burahem
– **Common Names:** Kepel fruit, kepel apple
– **Family:** Annonaceae

2. **Plant Characteristics:**
– The kepel fruit plant is a medium-sized tree that can reach heights of 10 to 20 meters.
– It has large, glossy, dark green leaves with a leathery texture.
– The tree produces small, fragrant, greenish-yellow flowers that are typically unisexual.
– The fruit is a large, round, and fleshy structure with a distinctive fragrance.

3. **Fruit Characteristics:**
– The kepel fruit has a unique aroma, often described as a combination of durian, jackfruit, and mangosteen.
– The fruit is roughly the size of an apple, and its skin is greenish-yellow when ripe.
– The flesh is white and has a creamy texture.
– Kepel fruit is known for its sweet taste with a hint of floral and spicy notes.

4. **Cultural Significance:**
– Kepel fruit holds cultural significance, especially in Indonesia, where it is considered a sacred fruit.
– In Javanese tradition, the fruit is associated with Javanese royalty and is believed to have mystical properties.

5. **Propagation:**
– The kepel fruit plant can be propagated through seeds.
– Seeds should be planted in well-draining soil, and the young plants need protection from direct sunlight until they are established.

6. **Growing Conditions:**
– Kepel fruit plants thrive in tropical climates with warm temperatures and high humidity.
– They prefer well-draining soil and benefit from regular watering.

7. **Uses:**
– While the kepel fruit is consumed, it is not as widely popular as some other tropical fruits.
– The fruit is sometimes used in traditional medicine, and various parts of the plant are believed to have medicinal properties.

8. **Conservation Status:**
– The conservation status of the kepel fruit plant may vary, and local efforts may be in place to protect and conserve this species.

As with many lesser-known tropical fruits, the kepel fruit plant may have limited availability outside its native region, and its cultivation may be primarily for local consumption and cultural purposes.