Namnam (Cynometra cauliflora)

FamilyFabaceae
Scientific nameCynometra cauliflora
Common name (English)Namnam
Common name (Malay)Namnam
Identified asIntroduced plant on Project M.A.R.S.’s land

Cynometra cauliflora, commonly known as the nam-nam or nam nam fruit, is a tropical tree in the Fabaceae family. Native to Southeast Asia, it is valued for its edible, yellow-green fruits that grow directly on the trunk (cauliflorous), offering a unique appearance and sweet-tart flavor. Traditionally, various parts of the tree—including fruits, seeds, and bark—have been used in folk medicine for their digestive, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory properties. With its culinary, medicinal, and ornamental significance, Cynometra cauliflora remains an important species in tropical agroforestry and local food traditions.