Kusum Tree (Schleichera oleosa)
Scientific Name: Schleichera oleosa — Kusum, Ceylon Oak.
Native Home: Indian subcontinent and parts of Southeast Asia.
Height: 15–25 metres.
Lifespan: Several decades, potentially over 100 years.
Uses and Harvesting
Timber: Hard wood used for agricultural tools, construction and other durable wooden products.
Harvesting: Seeds are collected for oil extraction, and the tree supports lac insect cultivation.
Age to Harvest: Seed production generally begins after several years; useful timber harvesting often requires 15–25 years or longer.
Products: Kusum seed oil, lac resin, shellac-related products, timber and fuelwood.
History and Global Production
Traditional Use: Seed oil has been used locally for traditional purposes, while lac has long been commercially important.
Global Spread: Native to South and Southeast Asia, with commercial use concentrated in India and neighbouring countries.
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