Gordonia concentricicatrix, Burkill (kelat samak, samak pulut, kelat merah – Malay
This short note by G. E. S. Cubitt, accompanied by a photographic plate, provides a brief description and distributional account of Gordonia concentricatrix Burkill, a large evergreen tree known in Malay as kelat samak, samak pulut, and kelat merah.
Cubitt describes the tree’s physical characteristics, including its height (over 100 feet), cylindrical unbuttressed stem, and distinctive bark that peels in long flakes to reveal a smooth terra-cotta surface marked with lozenge-shaped concentric scars (p. 49). The bark exudes a dark crimson juice when wounded. The note records observations on flowering and fruiting cycles in Selangor and Pahang, noting probable biannual flowering with a six-month fruiting period (p. 49). Distribution is given as Malacca, the Dindings, Selangor, and Pahang, at low elevations not exceeding 1000 feet, with a notable concentration in the Rantau Panjang Reserve (p. 50). Cubitt also distinguishes the species from Eugenia sp. (also called Kelat Merah), noting differences in bark peeling, scar pattern, and sap. The timber is described as tough, close-grained, and suitable for house-building, while the bark is used in Pahang for dyeing fishing nets and clothing (p. 50). The note closes with three corrections to the earlier botanical description published in No. 76 of the Journal (p. 50).