| Petroleum nut | |
|---|---|
| Scientific classification | |
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| (unranked): | Angiosperms |
| (unranked): | Eudicots |
| (unranked): | Asterids |
| Order: | Apiales |
| Family: | Pittosporaceae |
| Genus: | Pittosporum |
| Species: | P. resiniferum |
| Binomial name | |
| Pittosporum resiniferum Hemsl. |
|
The petroleum nut, Pittosporum resiniferum, is a tree that grows in the Philippines, particularly in the wilderness surrounding the Mayon Volcano and in the Cordillera. The petroleum nut derives its name from the resemblance of the fruit's odor to petroleum-based fuels. The fruits of the tree burn brightly when ignited, and can be used for illumination as torches or candles.[1] Its fruit is also highly suitable for use in producing biofuel. This use has been encouraged by the Philippines Department of Agrarian Reform and the Philippine Coconut Authority.[2]
In the Philippine Cordilleras petroleum nut is locally known as apisang, abkel, abkol and da-il, is found among other trees like oak and other mossy forest species. It can also grow well with pine trees.[3]
The oil can also be distilled into a very pure form of n-Heptane.