red kamala

plural red kamalas

1. countableuncountableA tree of species Mallotus philippensis.

   The lower forests incldue bombax, the "silk cotton" tree, and red kamala, which produces the striking vermillion powder traditionally used in Hindu rituals.

   2017, Insight Guides Nepal, Insight Guides

   2 more examples

   a number of species not normally found in the rainforests of the lower Hunter, such as Queensland Lacebark (Brachychiton discolor) and Red Kamala (Mallotus philippensis) .

   1984, Alan Ward, Hunter Region Landscapes: Conservation of Natural Areas, Parks and Reserves of Regional Significance, Rural Landscapes and the Coastal Zone, page 27

   We see a few other noteworthy plants nearby, including the dye-yielding red kamala tree (Mallotus philippensis) and the medicinal, pink-flowered India rhododendron (Melastoma malabathricum).

   2022 September 12, Chris Thorogood, Chasing Plants: Journeys with a Botanist through Rainforests, Swamps, and Mountains, University of Chicago Press

2. countableuncountableRed dye produced from trees of species Mallotus philippensis.

   The fruits are small, coated with red kamala dye , which easily rubs off in transit

   1955, Queensland Journal of Agricultural Science, volumes 12-14, page 58

   2 more examples

   Dr. Dymock states that the average value of the best red kamala in Bombay in 1890 was R11 per maund of 41 pounds.

   1905, The Agricultural Ledger, volumes 12-13, page 60

   It is bitter and is also used as an adulterant for the red kamala dye from Mallotus philippensis.

   1975, Robert Scott Troup, Troupʼs The Silviculture of Indian Trees, volume 1, page 171