Kalumpang is a noun that refers to a tall tree belonging to the genus Sterculia, widely found in Southeast Asia. It is scientifically classified as Sterculia foetida and is also commonly known as the wild almond tree or hazel sterculia. The tree typically grows up to 30 meters in height and has a dense, spreading crown. The leaves are large, oblong, and dark green in color, while the flowers are small, inconspicuous, and greenish-yellow.
Kalumpang is widely recognized for its distinctive fruit, often referred to as "kalumpang nuts." These nuts are enclosed within a woody, star-shaped casing, commonly known as the kalumpang fruit. The fruit itself is round, brown, and segmented, with each segment containing a single nut. While the nuts have a slightly bitter taste, they are consumed by locals in various traditional recipes, such as roasted or boiled, after removing the husk.
Apart from being utilized for its edible nuts, kalumpang tree is also valued for its versatile wood. The timber obtained from this tree is highly durable and resistant to decay, making it suitable for construction, furniture-making, and boat-building. The bark and resin of kalumpang possess medicinal properties and are used in traditional herbal remedies and treatments.
Due to its impressive stature, distinct fruit, and multiple uses, kalumpang holds cultural significance in certain regions of Southeast Asia. It is often included in landscape designs for its aesthetics and shade-providing qualities. As an indigenous species, the kalumpang tree forms an integral part of the ecosystem, supporting biodiversity and contributing to the overall balance of tropical forests.
