Elephant Apple (ThursdayTreeLove)

What is it that first strikes you about this tree?

I am sure you will agree with me that its the glossy leaves that are eye catching. This is the Dillenia indica of the Dilleniaceae family and commonly known as Elephant Apple. This is a native species and its flowers are just as beautiful as its leaves.

The family Dilleniaceae is in honour of Johann Jacob Dillenius who was a Botanist and Botany Professor at Oxford. India Post has released a commemorative stamp of this tree species.

The leaf has a serrated margin and distinct veins
Flower

The five petaled fragrant flowers are large, solitary and face downwards.

Fruit

Apparently the fruit is a favourite of elephants hence this common name! It is about the size of an apple and I have read that the pulp is used in some our our curries etc.

A few years ago, this species was not very common in Pune, and tree lovers made it a point to visit the few known locations where it did grow. However now I have seen it growing at many places , even on roadsides!

Have you seen the Dillenia indica? Do look out for its blossoms in June/July and Oct to Jan.

I am joining Parul in her ThursdayTreeLove bloghop. Do head over to see some fantastic trees from around the world. Better still, join in!

10 Replies to “Elephant Apple (ThursdayTreeLove)”

  1. Thank you for introducing me to another tree that would not be hardy where I live. This one is so distinctive with the veins – and those flowers. Interesting, indeed. They will grow in the southern part of Florida, our southern state here in the United States, but I don’t remember seeing them there. After COVID-19, when I can travel again, I will look out for this tree.

    1. Thank you Alana. Yes these leaves are very distinctive , one can almost identify the tree with just this foliage. Let me know if you spot this tree in Florida! šŸ™‚

  2. The leaves are beautiful and sure were the first thing I noticed. Such a beautiful tree, Archana. The name is an ear catching one too.

    Thank you so much Archana for all your support on Thursday Tree Love. You have been one of the regulars and I value you. You have educated us and brought unique trees from Maharashtra. So so grateful.

    Iā€™d love to see you tomorrow for the 100th edition and then looking forward to 2021.

    Happy tree watching and clicking!

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