Dillenia indica - Elephant Apple Fruit Tree, 2 Litre.
 
Dillenia indica, commonly known as elephant apple or chulta, is a tropical fruit tree belonging to the Dilleniaceae family. Native to the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia, this evergreen tree is renowned for its ornamental flowers and large, edible fruits.
 
The elephant apple tree typically reaches heights of 15 to 20 meters, with a spreading canopy of glossy, dark green leaves. Its distinctive, fragrant flowers bloom from large, solitary buds, showcasing five to seven creamy-white petals with numerous stamens at the center. These blooms, which appear in the spring and summer months, attract various pollinators, including bees and butterflies.
One of the most striking features of Dillenia indica is its fruit. The fruit, often referred to as elephant apple due to its large size and resemblance to an elephant's foot, typically measures around 5 to 12 centimeters in diameter. When ripe, the fruit ranges in color from pale green to yellow-orange, with a thick, leathery skin. The inner flesh is sour and slightly astringent, containing numerous small seeds embedded within a juicy pulp. Despite its tartness, the fruit is prized for its culinary versatility, used in both savory and sweet dishes, as well as for making jams, chutneys, and beverages.
In addition to its culinary uses, various parts of the Dillenia indica tree hold medicinal value in traditional herbal medicine practices. The bark is used to treat gastrointestinal issues, while the leaves are employed in poultices for skin ailments. The fruit itself is believed to possess digestive properties and is consumed to alleviate stomach disorders.
 
Beyond its practical applications, Dillenia indica holds cultural significance in several regions where it grows. It features prominently in traditional folklore and is often revered for its resilience and ability to thrive in diverse environments. Additionally, the tree's aesthetic appeal, with its large, showy flowers and distinctive fruits, makes it a popular choice for landscaping and ornamental gardens in tropical and subtropical climates.