THE TAKAMAKA TREE

Calophyllum Inophyllum

The takamaka tree is a beautiful slow growing, evergreen tree with glossy leaves that is well adapted to sandy or rocky beaches of island and coastal habitats, essentially making it a littoral tree of the tropics. The takamaka is a medium-sized tree that can grow up to 35m tall, with sticky yellowish latex and a twisted or leaning bole up to 150cm in diameter. These large trunks often arch over the water’s edge dropping seeds and fruits that float easily to be dispersed by sea currents. Another means of fruit dispersal is via fruit bats.

Almost every part of the tree is utilised. The leaves, flowers, seeds, fruit and bark are often used in local medicine and the trunks are used for timber. In the Seychelles, the resin is used to treat wounds and insect bites. The takamaka is often planted around the Seychelles as an ornamental or roadside tree and is used in reforestation practices across the nation. Although this is a slow-growing tree, it proves an excellent shore stabiliser and shade provider.