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Asplenium nidus, also known as Bird Nest Fern is an
epiphytic fern gaining foothold on trees and rocks, often growing
on the ground after falling from trees. The leaves can grow up to
1.4 meters long and form a nest-like rosette adapted to collecting
rainwater and trap nutrient-rich debris and dead leaves falling
from surrounding trees. Dead fronds remain on fern as a thick
skirt beneath, often home to small animals and insects.
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Muntingia calabura, also known as Buah Cheri in Malay, is
a tall tree reaching to a height of 13 meters tall. The sweet
fruits are much sought after by fruit eating birds, squirrels and
bats.
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A common shrub with medicinal properties, the Singapore
Rhododendron can be used for the cure of diarrhoea. The ripe fruit
splits to expose a black pulp that stains the mouth black when
eaten.
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Dillenia suffruticosa or commonly known as Simpoh Ayer in
Malay, is a large scrub and can grow up to 7 meters tall. The
bright yellow flower open and fall within the same day. The ripe
fruit is pink splitting into 7 to 11 radiating segments. Fruit
eating birds love the seeds. The large and robust leaves are
suitable for disposable platters and as wrappers for tempeh, a
fermented soybean delicacy. Sap from the twigs or leaf stalks are
applied to external wound to stop bleeding.
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The Dragon’s Scales, an epiphyte, is a tiny and hardy fern. It is
highly adapted for life on the branches of trees and paves the way
for the establishment of other less hardy ferns.
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The buoyant green, pyramid like fruit of the Barringtonia
asiatica contain saponins, which is used as fish poison.This tree is also commonly known as Sea Poison Tree.
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