
Native Species
Salam
Indonesian Bay Leaf
(salam; syzgium polyanthum)
c. early 19th century
This fast-growing deciduous tree can reach a height of 30 metres, and is native to Singapore, Myanmar, Cambodia, Laos, Malaysia and the Philippines. Its leaves, be they fresh or dried, are often used as a spice in traditional Malay cooking, while its small red fruits act as a source of food for many birds.