This plant originates from tropical America (Southern Mexico, the Caribbean down to Peru and Bolivia). Kersen was introduced to the Philippines in the late 19th century and subsequently spread throughout the tropical Asian region. This species is found in parts of the western Malay Peninsula, Sumatra, Java, and Kalimantan. The plant produces edible fruit which can be eaten directly or used as a raw material for processed foods like jam. Additionally, Kersen has properties used in traditional medicine.

Generally, Kersen grows well at an altitude of 0–1,000 meters above sea level (m.a.s.l.), with a soil pH of 5.5–6.5, and rainfall of 1,400–2,000 mm/year. It grows wild in open areas, roadsides, and riverbanks, and prefers a sandy clay soil texture.

• Stem: Horizontal branching, forming a dense canopy providing ample shade.

• Leaves: Oval-shaped (ovate), serrated edges, pointed tip, arranged alternately and horizontally, light green, densely hairy on the underside.

• Flower: Has white, oval-shaped petals, green sepals, and a long stalk.

• Fruit: Berry, round, sweet, green (young) and red (ripe), with a long fruit stalk.

• Seed: Small, numerous, yellow color.

• Propagation: Generatively (seeds).

• Seed Selection: Seeds are sourced from physiologically ripe fruit (red color).

• Has activity as an antioxidant, antitumor, antidiabetic, antibacterial, anticancer, and antiseptic agent. It addresses headaches and colds, controls high blood pressure, cholesterol, and gout.

• Cytotoxic flavonoids (chrysin, 2′, 4′-dihydroxychalcone; galangin 3, 7-dimethyl ether; 5, 7-dihydroxy-8-methoxyflavono, flavonoid glycosides, tiliroside, buddlenoid A), chalcones, phenolic, sesquiterpene, furanoid, saponin, tanin, steroid.