Callophyllum Inophyllum

Callophyllum Inophyllum (Kamani) is a medium size to large tree, with a broad spreading crown of irregular branches. The trees average height is of 25 – 65 ft tall. And, the irregular spreading branches, support a dense canopy of the glossy foliage. Ideal to cast shade. Nonetheless, the Kamani tree also has a tendency of forming low branches.

Native from East Africa, through India and Southeast Asia to the Phillipines. Southward its range extends through Melanesia and Australia. The natural habitat for the Kamani is primarily coastal. Making it perfect for the South Florida and Caribbean Landscape. As a matter of fact the Callophyllum Inophyllum is widely dispersed throughout the tropics. Including Hawaii, other Pacific islands and the Caribbean. Praised for its hardiness and beauty as an ornamental shade tree.

The glossy green foliage is set out by elliptical leaves,  generally between 3 – 5 inches wide;  arranged in an opposite manner. The petiole is about 1 inch long.  Moreover, the inflorescence of the Callophyllum Inophyllum (Kamani) is about 2 to 4 inches long. Grouping 5-15 white flowers with multiple yellow stamens and globose ovary. Flowers are highly aromatic with a sweet scent aroma. Furthermore, the fruit is green when young and may become brownish when ripe,  in the form of large nuts. Measuring  around  1 to 1.5 inches.  Flowers attract insects and there is a record of bats eating the fruit and dispersing the seeds.

Additionally, the bark is fissured, in a grey to brown color with hints of pink on the inside. When the bark is cut off it produces a clear yellow sticky latex.

Landscape Applications:

The Kamani prefers full sun and well drained soils. And,  thanks to its high salt tolerance, it is ideal for coastal lines or as street tree. It is also durable in contact with soil and water. In landscaping, it is planted as a focal point (accent tree) in various sites, to display its attractive evergreen foliage and showy flowers.  It has no reported pest problems.

In fact, the Callophyllum Inophyllum dense crown makes for a good visual barrier, specially for buildings and other structures. Nonetheless it is important to plant the tree with a prudent distance from the structure to avoid damage as they grow.

Other Applications:

The primary commercial product harvested from the tree is timber. Although,  Callophyllum Inophyllum (Kamani) is also a promising specie to grow for the bio-diesel industry. Therefore contributing to the green energy production and restoration.

Other Common Names for Callophyllum Inophyllum:

Alexandrian laurel, Balltree, Beach Touriga, Borneo-mahogany, Indian doomba oiltree, Indian-laurel, laurelwood, red poon, satin touriga, tacamahac tree.