Indian Mulberry, Noni
Commonly seen in dense thickets along tropical shores.
Noni – the ripe fruits have a very distinct smell.
Ripe fruits produced by Indian mulberry, also known as noni, have a distinctive, strong smell which has given them the name “cheese fruit” and “vomit fruit”. The smell attracts bats which eat the fruits and disperse the seeds.
The plant grows frequently along tropical coasts where it can form dense thickets along the beach. However, it can also grow further inland.
Noni juice is sold with claims of healing effects – though lacking scientific evidence.
Noni juice is extracted from the fruit. Noni juice has been marketed as a miracle cure that strengthens the body’s resistance to a range of diseases from the common cold to HIV and cancer. However, as yet there is no scientific evidence of the plant's effect.
Facts:
- Greenhouse location: Tropical house
- Danish name: Indisk svovltræ, Noni
- Latin name: Morinda citrifolia
- Family: The coffee family / Rubiaceae
- Natural habitat: Southeast Asia