Ketapang
About the Ketapang in Singapore
Last updated 31 May 2026
The Ketapang (Terminalia catappa), also known as the Sea Almond, is a common native coastal tree. It is widely planted across Singapore along roadsides and beaches for its excellent shade.
Identifying features
Check out some identifying features of the Ketapang!
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The Ketapang features large, leathery, paddle-shaped leaves that grow clustered tightly together at the very ends of its branches. Much like the Common Pulai, you can easily recognize this tree from a distance by its distinct tiered, horizontal branching structure that creates a structured, layered look. It also has flattened, almond-shaped fruits, which transition from green to a deep purplish-red when fully ripe.
Habitat and ecology
The tree’s fibrous fruits are highly buoyant, allowing their seeds to fall into the ocean and float on sea currents before washing up on new shores to germinate, though their fruits can also be dispersed by animals!
Did you know?
It is one of the few trees in the tropics that puts on a spectacular display when it sheds its leaves. The leaves turn vibrant shades of red before falling. When the tree sheds its leaves in large quantities (usually twice a year), the entire canopy transforms into a spectacular display of red foliage.
Learn more about the Ketapang!
Curious about the Ketapang? Here are some interesting articles you can read to learn more about them.
