Types Of Tree Species In Indonesia #30 Lerak (Sapindus Rarak)

Plant lerak (Sapindus rarak) is a plant originating from Southeast Asia and has long been known in Java. Lerak fruit has been known for a long time and used as a laundry or hairdresser.

This plant is a tall, large tree. Its height reaches ± 42 m with stem diameter ± 1 m. Leaves round egg shape until lanceolate. Multiple inflorescences, panicles, are located at the ends of yellowish white stems. The shape of a round fruit like marbles when it is old / brownish brown color, smooth fruit surface / shiny. Round seeds are also black. Between fruit and seeds there is a little slimy fruit flesh and fragrant aroma.

Benefits of Lerak

Usually soap from lerak is used to wash batik cloth, because the soap from lerak is considered as the most suitable washing material to maintain the quality or color in batik cloth. Saponin is what can serve as a washing material, and can also be used as a cleaner of various kitchen appliances, floors and even bathing and cleaning pets.