Status:
valid
Authors:
DC.
Source:
tro
Year:
1824
Citation Micro:
Prodr. 1: 608 (1824)
WFO Identifier:
wfo-0001135253
Common Names
- Sapindus rarak
- Rarak Soapberry
- Indian Soapberry
Description
Sapindus rarak (also called Rarak, among many other common names) is a species of flowering plant in the family Sapindaceae. It is native to India, Sri Lanka, and the Andaman Islands. It is a small deciduous tree that grows up to 8 m tall and has a spreading crown. It grows in tropical and subtropical climates in dry and moist forests.
Uses & Benefits
Sapindus rarak is used for making soap, shampoo, and detergents. The fruit is also used in traditional medicine for treating skin diseases, and the leaves are used as a diuretic and to treat fever.
Flower, Seeds and Seedlings
The flowers of Sapindus rarak are small, yellow, and have five petals. The seeds are small, round, and black. The seedlings are small, with a single pair of oval-shaped leaves.
Cultivation and Propagation
Sapindus rarak is a tropical tree that can be grown in USDA hardiness zones 10-11. It can be propagated from seed or cuttings and prefers full sun and moist, well-drained soil. It can also be grown in containers.
Where to Find Sapindus rarak
Sapindus rarak is found in the tropical rainforests of Central and South America.
Species in the Sapindus genus
Sapindus saponaria,
Sapindus vitiensis,
Sapindus chrysotrichus,
Sapindus oahuensis,
Sapindus drummondii,
Sapindus marginatus,
Sapindus trifoliatus,
Sapindus laurifolius,
Sapindus mukorossi,
Sapindus rarak,
Sapindus delavayi,
Sapindus tomentosus,
Sapindus sonlaensis,
Sapindus lippoldii,
Species in the Sapindaceae family