TOTW Cordia myxa

A native to East Asia, Cordia myxa, or the Assyrian plum tree, is a useful one to have around. A member of the forget-me-not family, Boraginaceae, it can reach 10-15 m in height. While a lovely tree, its fruit are what set it apart. t is a drupe, or stone fruit. Commonly used as a medicine, theses pinkish “plums” appear in late summer and are sweet when ripe. They are also said to aid hair growth. Half ripe, the pulp from the fruit can also be used as a glue. Besides fruit, it yields beautiful hard wood, highly prized by craftsmen. There is only one growing on campus, so be sure to look for it!