Kepel (Stelechocarpus burahol (Blume) Hook & Thompson), Buah Langka Khas Keraton Yogyakarta: Sebuah Koleksi Kebun Raya Purwodadi

Kepel is a common name for Stelochocarpus burahol, a plant that spreads naturally in Indonesia. It is a member of Annonaceae with fruit the size of a hand or kepel (Javanese) hence it is called kepel. The plant commonly found in the Special Region of Yogyakarta (a territory ruled by the Sultan), and is designated as a Flora of Provincial Identity. In ancient times kepel was considered as a plant of the royal household. Besides its small flesh the fruit was economically less prospective thus not too attractive to locals. Therefore its current population is quite limited and has begun to be rarely found. Recent studies have shown that the species has potential as medicinal plants for its antioxidant, antifungal, and antiseptic properties. This added value is expected to attract people’s interest to put investment on the plant’s potential future use as well as improving its conservation status.            Kepel is a plant that spreads naturally in Indonesia, especially in the Daerah Istimewa Yogyakarta (DIY), so it is designated as a Flora of Provincial Identity. It is a member of Annonaceae with fruit the size of a hand or kepel (Javanese) hence it is called kepel. It is not very attractive for the public since in ancient times it was considered a royal palace plant that was exalted and less prospective economically because of its little flesh. Therefore its current population is quite limited so that it has begun to be rarely found. Recent studies have shown that parts of this plant, such as the fruit and leaves, have antioxidant, antifungal, and antiseptic activities so that they have potential as medicinal plants. Such inherent potential in kepel is expected to increase its usefulness so that its conservation value also increases