Surinam cherry is a type of small tree native to the coastal areas of South America, such as Paraguay, Uruguay, some parts of Brazil, and Argentina. However, in Indonesia, this tree is known by the local name dewandaru.

According to its history, the name dewandaru comes from a myth from the area of Gunung Kawi, East Java. The dewandaru tree found in the cemetery complex of Kyai Zakaria and Raden Mas Imam Sujono (Pesarean Gunung Kawi) is considered sacred. It is said that this tree originated from the staff of Kyai Zakaria, which was planted into the ground and transformed into a tree. Local people and pilgrims believe that this tree can bring good fortune. Often, pilgrims wait for fallen leaves, fruits, or branches to be taken and used as talismans. Although this tree is not native to Indonesia, it has a story closely tied to local wisdom, especially in the area of Gunung Kawi.

This tree is one of the trees planted in my parents’ yard. It always grows well, lush, but I have never seen it bear fruit. Last year, I saw its fruit for the first time in my aunt’s yard. The portrait of that day is captured in this artwork to be remembered.