Elephant Apple
dillenia indica
Also known as: ["Elephant Apple","Otaheite gooseberry","Elephant fruit"]
Overview
A large evergreen tree native to Southeast Asia, known for its large, fleshy fruits and glossy leaves.
Benefits & Perks
["edible fruits","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Dilleniales |
| Family: | Dilleniaceae |
| Genus: | Dillenia |
| Botanical Name: | Dillenia indica |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Fruits
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in tropical or subtropical regions
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Well-draining but moisture-retentive.
- Soil Type: Rich, loamy soil with good organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if needed.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily); adjust for intense summer sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun; protect from harsh midday sun; provide dappled shade in hot climates.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Morning sun is ideal; use shade cloth in intense heat; rotate plant for even growth.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure good drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
Soil
well-drained, fertile, loamy soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5–7.0).
Ensure good drainage; enrich with organic matter; avoid compacted soil.
Temperature
Thrives in warm tropical conditions (65–85°F/18–29°C); intolerant of frost.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; maintain humidity in dry heat.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season with balanced fertilizer
Apply fertilizer to moist soil; avoid contact with roots; flush soil occasionally to prevent buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seeds; stem cuttings are more reliable for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take cutting.
- Apply hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Wait for roots.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when growth is active.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), warm (75–85°F/24–29°C), indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and sand.
Hormone
Rooting hormone recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots in 4–6 weeks; establish in 3–4 months.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep consistently moist; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning; cut just above a bud or lateral branch.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or overcrowded branches to improve air circulation and shape.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune deadwood first; make clean cuts; disinfect after use.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; use fresh soil mix; ensure drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; necessary for growth and health.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot; use fresh soil; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure; incorporate perlite for drainage; mulch surface.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf drop, yellowing, or stunted growth in cold; wilting or scorching in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Leaves may curl or drop; growth halts; risk of root damage below 50°F/10°C.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; cover with frost cloth; avoid overwatering in cold.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or premature flowering; reduced vigor in prolonged heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak sun; increase watering; mist foliage in extreme heat.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season; use correct dilution; water before fertilizing; avoid overfertilization.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced slow-release fertilizer in spring; liquid feed monthly during growing season; reduce in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicSimilar to dogs, the seeds of Dillenia indica can cause mild gastrointestinal upset in cats if ingested in large quantities due to their tannin content. The fruit and leaves are typically safe for cats in small amounts.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Dogs
Slightly ToxicThe seeds of Dillenia indica contain tannins, which can cause mild gastrointestinal irritation in dogs if ingested in large quantities. The fruit and leaves are generally safe for dogs in small amounts.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Humans
Non-toxicDillenia indica, commonly known as elephant apple, is generally non-toxic to humans. However, excessive consumption of its seeds may cause mild gastrointestinal discomfort due to their high tannin content. The fruit and leaves are commonly consumed in various culinary applications without adverse effects.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in excessive quantities
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Dillenia indica safe for pets?
A: Yes, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: What are the uses of Dillenia indica?
A: The fruits are edible and used in traditional medicine and cooking.
Q: How tall does Dillenia indica grow?
A: It can grow up to 30 meters tall in ideal conditions.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Dilleniaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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