Introducing the Woodland Elaeocarpus, also known as Elaeocarpus sylvestris, a striking tree species found in China, Japan, Korea, Taiwan, and Vietnam. Growing up to 15 meters, this evergreen tree boasts shiny, oblanceolate leaves and racemes of greeny-white flowers that eventually bear black olive-like fruit in Autumn. The fruits are edible and the oil from the seeds can be processed into soap or lubricants. Interestingly, the bark may also be used as a source for dye. While the wood is not ideal for timber due to its lack of water resistance, it is cultivated for growing shiitake mushrooms. This species also contains the compound gallotannin, which has potential in radioprotection. The Woodland Elaeocarpus is a beautiful addition to streets and parks and is even the tree symbol of Urasoe, Okinawa.