Melicope hookeri T.G.Hartley, Sandakania 4 (1994)

Named after J.D. Hooker [1817-1911], a British botanist.

Synonyms
Ampacus robusta (Hook.f.) Kuntze
Euodia robusta Hook.f.

Description
Mid-canopy tree up to 36 m tall and 90 cm dbh. Stipules absent. Leaves opposite, tri-foliolate compound, leaflets penni-veined, glabrous to hairy. Flowers ca. 4 mm diameter, green-white, placed in panicles. Fruits ca. 6 mm diameter, green-brown, dehiscent capsules. Seeds remaining attached to inflorescence after fruit opening.

Ecology
Often in disturbed but also undisturbed mixed dipterocarp and sub-montane forests up to 1600 m altitude. On hillsides and ridges with sandy soils.

Uses
The timber is locally used.

Distribution
Peninsular Malaysia, Sumatra, Borneo (throughout the island).

Local names
Borneo: Empatung, Kaya bukam, Pa'au, Serang, Tapu.