Bignay
Bignay (Antidesma bunius (L.) Spreng
Bignay is a variable plant that may be short and shrubby, or tall and erects approaching 30 meters in height.
It is commonly found in wet evergreen forests, dipterocarp forests, and teak forests, on river banks, at forest edges, along roadsides, in bamboo thickets, in semi-cultivated and cultivated areas, and in shady or open habitats.
It is widely cultivated for its fruits which are used for making wine, tea, jams, and jellies. Each bunch of fruits ripens unevenly so the fruits in a bunch are all different colors. The fruit has a sour taste similar to that of the cranberry when immature, and a tart with a sweet taste when ripe.
Bignay’s conservation status is “least concern” (IUCN Red List)
Bignay Fruit
Bignay is a fruit found mainly in Southeast Asian countries. In the Philippines, it is mainly found in Nasugbu and lipa, Batangas, and even in some parts of the Visayas. Also known as salamander tree, it’s described to have a sour taste and a thin skin that can be purple or red.
It contains numerous vitamins such as C, E, B1, provitamin A, iron, minerals, and potassium. It has numerous health benefits, being a natural anti-oxidant, and can help in weight loss, colon health, cardiovascular health and eye health.
It can be made into jams, jelly, liquor, and even wine.
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