Shi Jun Zi (Quisqualis Fruit) (Long spindle shape, black-brown, smooth and glossy, with five longitudinal ridges)

Shi Jun Zi (Quisqualis Fruit) Kernel

【Naming】

Shi Jun Zi (Quisqualis Fruit)

 【Source】

Song Dynasty Kaibao Era

 【Frequency of Use】

E

 【Botanical Origin】

The dried ripe fruit of Combretaceae Quisqualis indica L.

 【Characteristics】

Long oval or elliptical, with 5 longitudinal ridges, pointed at both ends, shaped like a spindle, 2.5~4㎝ long, 1.5~2㎝ in diameter. The outer shell is black-brown, smooth, slightly glossy, hard in texture, light in weight, and not easy to break. The cross-section is star-shaped with five points. The cortex at the ridges is relatively thick, containing one seed inside. The seed is narrowly spindle-shaped, about 2㎝ long and about 1㎝ in diameter. The seed coat is gray-white with black-gray patches, thin in texture, easy to peel off, revealing the yellow cotyledons. The surface has numerous longitudinal wrinkles. There are two cotyledons, thick and fleshy. The odor is slightly fragrant, more noticeable after frying. The taste is bland.

 【Identification】

The best quality is indicated by large size, plump kernels, yellow seed color, and a fragrant, sweet, and oily taste.

 【Category】

Fruits