Canarium commune is a tree species native to Sri Lanka, belonging to the family Burseraceae. It is known in English as Java Almond or Kenari Nut, and in Sinhala as Rata kekuna (රටකැකුණ). Unlike some related species prized for their nuts, this tree has no recorded edible parts.
What family does Canarium commune belong to?
Canarium commune belongs to the Burseraceae, a family of mostly tropical trees and shrubs often recognised for their resinous bark and aromatic compounds. Many members of this family are valued for resins, gums, or timber rather than food, and Canarium commune fits this broader pattern as a species without recorded edible use.
Where does Canarium commune grow?
Canarium commune is classified as native to Sri Lanka, meaning it occurs naturally on the island, though it is not recorded as endemic and so is not confined to Sri Lanka alone.
What is it called in Sinhala?
In Sinhala, Canarium commune is known as Rata kekuna (රටකැකුණ). The name echoes its kinship with the native kekuna (Canarium zeylanicum), a related tree in the same genus, with "rata" distinguishing it as a separate, non-indigenous-by-origin counterpart within local plant naming.
Can you eat Canarium commune?
No edible parts are recorded for this species. It should not be treated as a food or nut source, despite its common names referencing almonds and nuts.
| Attribute | Recorded detail |
|---|---|
| Scientific name | Canarium commune |
| Family | Burseraceae |
| English name | Java Almond, Kenari Nut |
| Sinhala / local name | Rata kekuna (රටකැකුණ) |
| Status in Sri Lanka | Native |
| Edible parts | None |
Other species in this genus
1 more, sharing the same genus.
