Wood Apple – Fruit Plants & Tree

Description

Wood Apple Plant is Botanically known as Limonia acidissima, This fruit is native to India but is also found in Sri Lanka, Thailand, and various other regions in the southern part of Asia. The fruit shells are tough, and the inside is brownish pulp and small white seeds. The pulp can be eaten raw, but it is popularly scooped out and frozen, or made into jam. It can also be mixed with coconut milk for a delicious, healthy beverage, or frozen into ice cream.

• These fruits are considered auspicious to be offered to Lord Shiva and Lord Ganesha in festival/Pujas.
• A majority of Hindu temples will have a sacred tree within their compound.
• Flowering starts in March and fruits ripen from early September.
• Suitable to grow in hot and humid climates with temperatures above 30degree Celsius.
• Grow in a variety of soil, but prefer well-drained soil.
• Suitable to grow in a pot or sunny balcony.

Here are some details about the Wood Apple Plant:

1. Appearance: The Wood Apple tree is a medium-sized evergreen tree that can grow up to 9-12 meters in height. It has a dense crown with spreading branches and elliptical or ovate leaves.
2. Fruit: The fruit of the Wood Apple tree is known as “Wood Apple” or “Kaitha” in Hindi. It has a hard, woody shell with a rough surface. Inside, the fruit pulp is aromatic, fibrous, and has a tangy-sweet taste. It is typically consumed fresh or used in culinary preparations such as chutneys, jams, and beverages.
3. Nutritional Value: Wood Apple fruit is rich in essential nutrients such as vitamins (particularly vitamin C), minerals, fiber, and antioxidants. It is believed to have various health benefits, including improving digestion, boosting immunity, and promoting overall well-being.
4. Medicinal Uses: In traditional medicine systems like Ayurveda, various parts of the Wood Apple tree, including the fruit, leaves, bark, and roots, are used for their medicinal properties. The fruit pulp is often used to treat digestive issues, respiratory problems, and skin conditions.
5. Cultural Significance: Wood Apple fruit holds cultural and religious significance in many Asian countries. It is often offered in religious rituals and ceremonies, and its medicinal properties are highly valued in traditional medicine practices.
6. Cultivation: The Wood Apple tree thrives in tropical and subtropical climates. It prefers well-drained soil and plenty of sunlight. The tree is relatively hardy and drought-tolerant once established.

Overall, the Wood Apple Fruit Plant is prized not only for its delicious fruit but also for its medicinal properties and cultural significance. It remains a cherished part of many culinary and traditional medicine practices in the regions where it grows.