Duku Langsat. Have you ever tasted one? Here at Langsat Cape, we’re not just surrounded by the sea. We’re also steeped in the history of a fruit. A fruit so important, it lent its name to this very place: Langsat Cape.
Langsat Cape, or Tanjung Langsat as it’s also known, juts out into the sea. It is a reminder of the region’s rich agricultural past. It is named after the Langsat fruit. This fruit is scientifically known as Lansium domesticum. It is a sweet, tangy treat enjoyed throughout Southeast Asia.
Let’s talk about this fruit. The Langsat is native to the Malay Peninsula. It is grown in Malaysia, Indonesia, the Philippines, Thailand, and Brunei. Locals call it by many names. These include duku, lansa, langseh, langsep and lansone.
The Langsat tree itself is a medium-sized tree. It grows up to 15 meters in cultivation. In the wild, it can reach 30 meters. Its leaves are compound. They have 5 to 7 leaflets. The flowers are small and creamy-yellow. They grow in clusters on the trunk or old branches.
But it’s the fruit we’re really interested in. Langsat fruits are oval or round. They are about 2.5 to 5 cm long. When ripe, they turn brownish-yellow. The skin is leathery. When broken, it excludes a milky latex. Inside, the flesh is divided into segments. Some segments contain seeds.
The Langsat fruit isn’t just delicious. It’s also nutritious. It contains proteins, carbs, minerals, and vitamins. Langsat also boasts dietary fiber. It is rich in vitamin A, thiamine, and riboflavin. These nutrients are vital for many bodily functions. Per 100g, Langsat fruit offers 0.8g of protein. It also provides 9.5g of carbs and 2.3g of fiber. You’ll also find calcium, phosphorus, and vitamins.
Historically, the Langsat has other uses. In Malaysia and Indonesia, people use bark or leaves to treat dysentery. The bark also helps with scorpion stings. The seeds have anti-fever properties. They can also fight intestinal worms.
Even William Farquhar, the first Resident of Singapore, recognized the Langsat’s significance. His collection includes a painting of Langsat. This was painted between 1803 and 1818. This shows the fruit’s importance in the region’s natural history.
So, as you stand here at Langsat Cape, remember the fruit. Remember its flavor, its history, and its many uses. Think about the generations who have enjoyed its sweet and tangy taste. Langsat Cape is more than just a place. It’s a living testament to the natural bounty of this region. It is a reminder of the close relationship between people and the land. A relationship that continues to shape Singapore today.