Chalta / Elephant Apple Plant

750.00

Elephant Apple Plant Details

Plant Name:

Elephant Apple Plant (Botanical Name: Dillenia indica)

Plant Characteristics:

  • Botanical Name: Dillenia indica
  • Common Names: Elephant Apple, Chalta, Ou Tenga
  • Type: Evergreen tree
  • Height: 6-15 meters in height with a spread of 6-12 meters
  • Leaves: Large, oblong leaves with serrated edges and a leathery texture
  • Flowers: Large, fragrant white flowers with prominent yellow stamens; blooms in spring and early summer
  • Fruits: Large, round, greenish-yellow fruits with a hard outer shell and tangy pulp; ripens in late summer to autumn
  • Native Habitat: Tropical and subtropical regions of South and Southeast Asia
  • Other Details: Known for its culinary and medicinal uses; fruits are used in chutneys, curries, and traditional medicine.

Out of stock

SKU: PLA-INF-12 Category: Tags: ,

Planting Tips for Elephant Apple Plant:

Growing Requirements:

  • USDA Zone: 9-11
  • Light: Prefers full sun to partial shade
  • Soil: Well-draining, loamy soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (5.5-7.0)
  • Watering: Moderate; keep the soil moist but not waterlogged

Ideal Planting Time:

  • Spring or early summer

Soil Preparation:

  • Enrich the soil with compost or well-rotted manure to enhance fertility

Watering Routine:

  • Water deeply once or twice a week during the growing season; reduce watering in winter

Fertilizing:

  • Use a balanced fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season

Pruning:

  • Prune to shape the tree and remove dead or diseased branches; best done in late winter

Pest and Disease Control:

  • Watch for fruit flies and fungal diseases; use organic or chemical treatments as necessary

Pollination Requirements:

  • Pollinated by insects, particularly bees

Benefits and Uses:

  • Nutritional Value: The fruit is rich in vitamin C and antioxidants
  • Aesthetic Value: Adds a tropical touch to gardens and landscapes
  • Ecological Role: Provides food and habitat for wildlife; helps in soil stabilization

Special Notes:

Discover more about unique and fascinating plants like the Elephant Apple Plant at PlantsInfo, your go-to source for gardening tips and plant information!