Question 1

What is Spondias pinnata called in Sri Lanka?

Accepted Answer

The cultivated form is widely known as ambarella in Sri Lanka, while the wild variety is sometimes called jungle hog-plum or wild ambarella. The Sinhala term amberella is used for both, though local names can vary by region.

Question 2

Is wild ambarella fruit edible?

Accepted Answer

Yes, both the unripe and ripe fruit are edible. Unripe fruit is sour and is commonly used in chutneys, pickles, and relishes, while the ripe fruit is sweeter and eaten fresh. It is a good source of vitamin C.

Question 3

What medicinal properties does Spondias pinnata have?

Accepted Answer

Traditional Ayurvedic practice attributes astringent, anti-inflammatory, and digestive properties to various parts of the tree. The bark and leaves are used in preparations for skin conditions and wound care, while the fruit is valued as a digestive stimulant. Phytochemical studies have identified tannins, flavonoids, and phenolic compounds that support some of these uses.

Question 4

Where in Sri Lanka does Spondias pinnata grow?

Accepted Answer

The species grows across much of Sri Lanka's lowland wet and intermediate zones, appearing in secondary forests, riverbanks, and home gardens. It can also be found in drier forest areas in the north and east of the island.

Question 5

Is Spondias pinnata used in Sri Lankan cooking?

Accepted Answer

Yes, particularly in rural households. The unripe fruit is sliced and mixed with salt, chilli, and Maldive fish to make tangy relishes served with rice. Ripe fruit is eaten fresh or juiced, and some families make simple preserves from it.

Question 6

How is Spondias pinnata different from the common ambarella sold in markets?

Accepted Answer

The market ambarella is typically the cultivated form Spondias dulcis, which produces larger, fleshier fruit. Spondias pinnata is the wild relative, with smaller, more acidic fruit and a tougher, more drought-resistant habit suited to forest environments.

Question 7

Can travellers see Spondias pinnata growing in Sri Lanka?

Accepted Answer

Yes. The tree is fairly common and can be spotted on village walks, in spice gardens, and along forest margins in the wet and intermediate zones. Guided Ayurvedic garden tours specifically introduce visitors to medicinal plants including this species.

Spondias pinnata

Other species in this genus