Flacourtia inermis is a fruit tree that is commonly known as lobi-lobi and tomi-tomi in Indonesia, rukam masam and lovi-lovi in Malaysia. The plant is a fruit tree that can grow up to a height of 15 m. Some internet sources indicated that it is native to Malaysia but according to the Plant Resources of Southeast Asia (PROSEA), this tree is said to be only known in a cultivated or semi-cultivated state, widespread from India through Malesia to New Britain.
Several individuals of Flacourtia inermis can be seen being planted in the grounds of HortPark (the Gardening Hub of Singapore located off Alexandra Road). It is an ornamental tree that can be planted in a park or garden. The tree’s mature leaves ovate-oblong to ovate-elliptic in shape and are glossy on the upperside. The young flushes of leaves with toothed margins are particularly attractive as they are bright orange in colour. This colour fades off to become a green colour as they mature. Some varieties have been distinguished, based on differences in leaves.
Flacourtia inermis produces very attractive bunches of fruits that measure up to 2.5 cm in diameter and appear as globose, deep red berries when they are ripe. Like many other fruits, they are green when they first appear. Tempting as they were, the ripe red fruits, however, in my opinion, are not exactly palatable as I find them very acid and astringent to taste. They are said to be excellent for making tarts, jams, syrup and preserves.
Like many other fruit trees, Flacourtia inermis can be propagation by using seeds. When there is a tree available, one can propagate it via air layering or budding. It prefers to be grown in a location where it can receive full, direct sunshine and in soil that is well-draining, fertile and moisture retentive. Mulch around the base of the tree using organic compost or manure to promote growth. Flacourtia inermis is not tolerant of waterlogged conditions though. The tree does not produce fruits all year round. In Java where the climate is relatively similar to Singapore, the tree flowers in January and February and fruits ripen after 4—5 months.
