19/08/2026
The scientific name commonly used for the fruit locally known as Chinese batuan (also called berba) is Garcinia intermedia. (Note: Native Philippine batuan is a different species named Garcinia binucao)
Key Facts
π³ Scientific Name: Garcinia intermedia
π³ Family: Clusiaceae (Mangosteen family)
π³ Type: Small to medium fruit-bearing treeFruit
π³ Taste: Juicy, sweet and sour
Uses
π³ Souring agent: The sour green fruit adds a tangy flavor to soups and stews.
π³ Regional dishes: It is very popular in Western Visayas dishes like kansi and KBL (kadyos, baboy, langka).
π³ Edible parts: People use both the sour fruit pulp and the young leaves.
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