Britannica AI Icon

Quick Summary

Gnetum gnemon is a species of tropical gymnosperm belonging to the genus Gnetum. This particular species is a tree, often reaching about 20 meters (65 feet) in height, and is notable for yielding a useful fiber and an edible, plum-like fruit. While most Asian varieties of Gnetum are woody vines, G. gnemon is an exception. As a gymnosperm, it does not produce flowers, but its broad leaves have a net-like veining that superficially resembles that of angiosperms. The ovules, which can develop into seeds, are enclosed, and its wood contains open-ended vessels, a characteristic also found in angiosperms. This species is cultivated in Southeast Asia and Melanesia for its edible seeds and leaves.12

Summary created from Britannica articles using AI. AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.
2 Britannica Sources
  1. Gnetaceae
  2. gnetum

Ask Britannica AI about this topic

Britannica doesn't have a full article on this topic, so we've curated a list of our relevant coverage.