Ceylon Wood Apple 100 Seeds Pack – Limonia acidissima

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Product Description

Wood apple, known scientifically as Limonia acidissima, is a unique and hardy tropical fruit native to the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia. Known as “Ceylon Wood Apple” in Sri Lanka, this fruit is valued for its distinctive flavor, nutritional benefits, and various uses in traditional medicine and cuisine.

Botanical Information

  • Scientific Name: Limonia acidissima
  • Common Names: Wood Apple, Ceylon Wood Apple, Elephant Apple, Monkey Fruit
  • Family: Rutaceae

Plant Characteristics

  • Growth Habit: Wood apple is a medium-sized deciduous tree that can reach heights of 30-50 feet (9-15 meters). It has a rough, thick bark and a dense, spreading canopy.
  • Leaves: The leaves are compound, consisting of 3-5 leaflets. They are dark green, aromatic when crushed, and have a slightly lemony scent.
  • Flowers: The tree produces small, greenish-white to yellowish flowers that are fragrant and grow in clusters.
  • Fruit: The fruit is round to oval, about the size of a small grapefruit, with a hard, woody shell that is difficult to crack open. The rind is grayish-brown, and the pulp inside is brown, sticky, and aromatic, with a sweet-sour taste.

Growing Conditions

  • Climate: Wood apple thrives in tropical and subtropical climates and is best suited to USDA zones 10-12. It prefers hot, dry climates and is drought-tolerant.
  • Sunlight: Requires full sun for optimal growth and fruit production. It needs at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day.
  • Soil: Prefers well-drained, sandy loam soils but can tolerate poor and rocky soils. It grows well in slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0-7.5).
  • Water: Requires moderate watering, especially during dry periods. Once established, the tree is relatively drought-tolerant.

Planting and Care

  • Propagation: Wood apple can be propagated from seeds, which should be sown in well-draining soil and kept warm and moist until germination. It can also be propagated by grafting and air layering.
  • Spacing: Space trees about 20-30 feet (6-9 meters) apart to allow for adequate air circulation and growth.
  • Pruning: Prune to shape the tree and remove any dead or diseased wood. Pruning helps improve air circulation and light penetration, promoting healthier growth.
  • Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer or compost annually to support healthy growth and fruit production. Fertilize more frequently during the growing season.

Benefits and Uses

  • Culinary Uses: The pulp of the wood apple is used in various culinary applications, including chutneys, jams, jellies, and beverages. It can be eaten fresh or mixed with honey or sugar to enhance its flavor.
  • Nutritional Value: Wood apple is rich in dietary fiber, vitamins (especially vitamin C and B vitamins), and minerals such as calcium, phosphorus, and iron. It also contains antioxidants and has potential health benefits.
  • Medicinal Uses: Traditionally, wood apple has been used in folk medicine to treat digestive issues, respiratory problems, and skin ailments. The fruit is believed to have antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties.
  • Other Uses: The hard shell of the fruit is sometimes used to make bowls and other small containers. The tree’s wood is used for timber and fuel.

Cautions

  • Pests and Diseases: Wood apple is relatively pest-resistant but can be affected by pests such as fruit flies and scale insects. It is also susceptible to fungal diseases like powdery mildew. Regular monitoring and appropriate pest management practices can help maintain tree health.
  • Harvesting: The fruit has a hard shell and can be challenging to crack open. Use caution and appropriate tools to avoid injury when preparing the fruit for consumption.

Wood apple (Limonia acidissima), or Ceylon Wood Apple, is a unique and hardy tropical fruit with a distinctive flavor and numerous health benefits. Its adaptability to poor soils and dry conditions makes it a valuable crop in tropical regions. With its rich nutritional profile and versatility in culinary and medicinal applications, wood apple is a delightful and beneficial addition to any tropical fruit collection. Proper care and cultivation will ensure a fruitful harvest of this remarkable and exotic fruit.

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