What is Aratilis in English?

Aratilis, scientifically known as Muntingia calabura, is a fast-growing shrub or tree native to the Neotropics. It can reach heights of 7.5 to 12 meters and is characterized by oblong or lanceolate leaves covered in short hairs. The small white flowers of Aratilis have five petals and last for only one day. The fruit, which is approximately 1.5 cm in diameter, is an edible berry with a smooth, thin skin that turns from green to red when ripe. Commonly found in disturbed lowland areas and gallery forests, Aratilis thrives in poor soil conditions. It is known by various vernacular names, including cotton candy berry, Jamaica cherry, Panama berry, and West Indian cherry. Aratilis serves multiple purposes, such as providing wood for rural construction and bark for rope making. Its fruits can be consumed raw or processed into jam, while the leaves are used for making tea. Traditional medicinal uses have been reported for various parts of the tree, and it is also cultivated as an ornamental species. Aratilis plays a vital role in attracting bees with its flowers’ nectar and pollen, and it even serves as a food source for fish when its fallen fruits attract them. Moreover, the tree has the potential to restore disturbed areas, prevent soil erosion, and provide food and shelter for wildlife.

Key Facts

1. Description:
   • Aratilis is a fast-growing shrub or tree that can reach a height of 7.5 to 12 meters.
   • The leaves are oblong or lanceolate, 4-15 cm long, and covered in short hairs.
   • The flowers are small, white, and have five petals. They last only one day.
   • The fruit is an edible berry, about 1.5 cm in diameter, with a smooth, thin skin. It turns from green to red when ripe.
2. Distribution and Habitat:
   • Aratilis is native to the Neotropics, ranging from Mexico to Bolivia and Argentina.
   • It is commonly found in disturbed lowland areas and gallery forests, thriving in poor soil conditions.
3. Vernacular Names:
   • Aratilis is known by various names in different languages and regions. Some common names include cotton candy berry, Jamaica cherry, Panama berry, and West Indian cherry.
4. Uses:
   • The wood of Aratilis is used for rural construction, while the bark is used for making ropes.
   • The fruits are edible and can be eaten raw or processed into jam. The leaves can be used for making tea.
   • Traditional medicinal uses have been reported for various parts of the tree, including the leaves, bark, flowers, and fruits.
   • Aratilis is also planted as an ornamental species and provides shade. Its flowers are a source of nectar and pollen for bees.
   • The fallen fruits of Aratilis attract fish, and the tree is planted along river banks in Brazil.
   • Aratilis has potential for restoring disturbed areas and preventing soil erosion. It also provides food and shelter for wildlife.

Taxonomy and Botanical Description

Scientific Name: Muntingia calabura

Family and Genus:
* Family: Muntingiaceae
* Genus: Muntingia

Physical Characteristics:
* Aratilis is a shrub or tree that can grow up to 7.5 to 12 meters tall with spreading branches.
* The leaves are alternate, oblong or lanceolate, and measure 4-15 cm long and 1-6 cm wide. They have toothed margins and are covered in short hairs.
* The flowers are small, up to 3 cm wide, and can be solitary or in inflorescences of two or three flowers. They have five lanceolate sepals, five obovate white petals, and many stamens with yellow anthers. The flowers last only one day, with the petals dropping in the afternoon.
* The fruit of Aratilis is an edible berry, about 1.5 cm in diameter, with a smooth, thin skin. The fruit starts green and turns red when mature. It has a light-brown, juicy pulp with very fine seeds, and the pulp tastes like fig.

Common Names

Aratilis, scientifically known as Muntingia calabura, has various common names in different English-speaking regions. Here is a list of some common names and their corresponding regions:

• Cotton Candy Berry: English-speaking regions; refers to the sweet taste of the fruit.
• Calabur Tree: English-speaking regions; derived from the scientific name.
• Capulin: English-speaking regions; derived from the Spanish word for the fruit.
• Festival Berry: English-speaking regions; refers to the use of the fruit in festivals and celebrations.
• Jamaica Cherry: English-speaking regions; refers to the cherry-like appearance of the fruit.
• Panama Berry: English-speaking regions; derived from the association of the fruit with Panama.
• Strawberry Tree: English-speaking regions; refers to the resemblance of the fruit to strawberries.
• Ornamental Cherry: English-speaking regions; highlights the tree’s use as an ornamental plant.
• Jamfruit Tree: English-speaking regions; emphasizes the use of the fruit in making jams.
• Singapore Cherry: English-speaking regions; associated with the fruit’s presence in Singapore.
• West Indian Cherry: English-speaking regions; refers to the fruit’s origin in the West Indies.

It is important to note that there may be cultural or regional variations in the naming of Aratilis.

Distribution and Habitat

Aratilis, scientifically known as Muntingia calabura, is native to the Neotropics, specifically from Mexico south to Bolivia and Argentina. It has also been widely introduced in other tropical areas.

Natural Range of Aratilis

• Aratilis is naturally found in the Neotropics, including countries such as Mexico, Bolivia, and Argentina.

Preferred Habitat Conditions

• Aratilis thrives in tropical environments with warm temperatures and high humidity.
• It can grow in a variety of soil conditions, including poor soils where other plants struggle to survive.
• The tree is known to be drought-tolerant once established, but it may require regular watering during its early stages of growth.
• Aratilis prefers full sun exposure for optimal growth.

Adaptability to Different Environments

• Aratilis is considered a pioneer plant, meaning it can establish itself in poor growing conditions and help condition the soil for other plants.
• However, its cold sensitivity makes it less likely to become invasive in colder regions, such as California.

Culinary Uses

Edible Parts of Aratilis

• The fruit of the Aratilis tree is the main edible part.
• The fruit resembles small cranberries and is red or yellow in color.
• The fruit can be eaten raw or used in various culinary preparations.

Traditional Culinary Uses and Recipes

• Aratilis is commonly consumed as a fresh fruit snack.
• It can be used in jams, jellies, and preserves.
• The fruit can be added to salads, desserts, and beverages for a unique flavor.
• In the Philippines, Aratilis is sometimes used in traditional Filipino dishes like sinigang (sour soup) and adobo (marinated meat).

Nutritional and Health Benefits

• Aratilis is rich in vitamin C, providing 150 milligrams per 100 grams of fruit.
• It is a good source of antioxidants, which help protect the body against free radicals.
• The fruit has anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce swelling and sores.
• Aratilis has been found to have antibacterial properties and may boost the body’s ability to fight off infections.
• Regular consumption of Aratilis may help maintain blood pressure, lower uric acid levels, and alleviate gout symptoms.
• It is being researched for its potential cancer prevention properties.

Medicinal Uses

Traditional Medicinal Uses

• Aratilis has been used in traditional medicine for various purposes, including:
  • Natural antibiotic
  • Anti-inflammatory
  • Antioxidant
  • Headache relief
  • Blood pressure maintenance
  • Lowering uric acid levels
  • Alleviating gout symptoms
  • Brain development and function
  • Diabetes management
  • Digestion improvement
  • Heart attack prevention
  • Cancer prevention
  • Pain relief

Scientific Research and Studies

• Scientific research has supported the traditional medicinal uses of Aratilis.
• Studies have shown that Aratilis exhibits:
  • High antioxidant content
  • Anti-inflammatory activity
  • Antibacterial properties
  • Potential benefits for ulcers
  • Antitumor, antinociceptive, anti-inflammatory, antipyretic, antibacterial, antiproliferative, and antioxidant properties

Potential Side Effects and Precautions

• There is limited information available on potential side effects or precautions of Aratilis.
• It is recommended to consult with a healthcare professional before using Aratilis, especially if you have any underlying medical conditions or are taking medications.

Economic and Commercial Importance

Commercial Cultivation

• Aratilis is a fast-growing tree that can reach a height of 25 to 40 feet.
• It is known to be able to grow in poor soils and is considered drought-tolerant.
• The tree produces fruit continuously in warmer months, making it a potential crop for commercial cultivation.

Economic Significance

• Aratilis has the potential for economic significance in local and international markets.
• In many parts of the tropics, the fruit is enjoyed by children right off the tree and rarely makes it to the market on a large scale.
• This suggests that there may be a demand for Aratilis fruit in local markets.
• However, further research is needed to determine its potential in international markets.

Industries and Products

• Aratilis fruit can be consumed fresh, and it is also used to make jams and tarts.
• The leaves of the Aratilis tree have been used for tea, and the flowers have been used for folk/home remedies.
• While there is limited information available on specific industries or products derived from Aratilis, its sweet and unique flavor could potentially be utilized in various food and beverage products.

Conservation Status and Threats

• The conservation status of Aratilis (Muntingia calabura) is not specifically mentioned in the available search results.
• Aratilis is native to various regions in the Neotropics, including southern Mexico, the Caribbean, Central America, and western South America.
• Like many plant species, Aratilis may face habitat loss due to deforestation, urbanization, and agricultural expansion.
• The search results do not provide specific information about any major threats facing Aratilis or dedicated conservation efforts for the species.

Cultural Significance

• Aratilis is not specifically associated with any particular religion, but it holds cultural significance in the Philippines and other tropical regions where it is grown.
• Aratilis is often associated with childhood memories and playtime.
• In the past, children would climb the tree or throw rocks or branches to bring the fruits down and enjoy them raw.
• It is considered a ready-to-eat food and is also consumed by birds and fruit bats.
• While there are no specific symbolic or ceremonial uses associated with Aratilis, its presence in childhood memories and its role as a readily available fruit contribute to its cultural significance.

Conclusion

Aratilis, also known as Muntingia calabura, is a fast-growing shrub or tree native to the Neotropics. With its attractive white flowers, edible berries, and various medicinal uses, Aratilis serves as a valuable resource in its native habitat. Additionally, its versatility as a construction material, rope source, and ornamental plant highlights its significance beyond its ecological role. Whether it’s providing shade, attracting pollinators, or aiding in ecological restoration, Aratilis demonstrates its importance in both environmental and human contexts.

Sources:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Muntingia
https://businessdiary.com.ph/9953/aratilis-slice-sweet-childhood-memories/
https://www.thefreedictionary.com/Aratilis

FAQs

What is Aratilis?

Aratilis, scientifically known as Muntingia calabura, is a fruit-bearing tree native to the Neotropics. It is also known by various common names, including strawberry tree, Singapore cherry, and Panama berry.

What does Aratilis taste like?

Aratilis fruit has a sweet and unique flavor that is often described as a cross between cotton candy and strawberry.

Where is Aratilis grown?

Aratilis is native to the Neotropics, but it has been introduced to other tropical regions around the world. It is commonly found in Mexico, Central America, the Caribbean, South America, and Southeast Asia.

What does the Aratilis tree look like?

The Aratilis tree is a small to medium-sized tree that can grow up to 25-40 feet tall. It has a spreading canopy with oblong or lanceolate leaves. The flowers are small and white, and the fruit is a small, round berry that is red or yellow when ripe.

What are the health benefits of Aratilis?

Aratilis is a good source of vitamin C and antioxidants. It has been traditionally used to treat a variety of ailments, including diarrhea, dysentery, and fever. Some studies have also shown that Aratilis may have anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antitumor properties.

How do you eat Aratilis?

Aratilis fruit can be eaten fresh, or it can be used to make jams, jellies, and other preserves. The leaves of the Aratilis tree can also be used to make tea.