Aegle

Description

Aegle is a genus of flowering plants that belongs to the family Rutaceae. It is commonly known as the bael fruit tree or stone apple, and is native to India and Southeast Asia. The tree grows up to 40 feet tall and has a spreading canopy with a dense foliage of glossy leaves that are alternately arranged. Its flowers are greenish-white and have a sweet, pleasant fragrance that attracts pollinators such as bees and butterflies. The fruit of the Aegle tree is a large, woody berry that is round or oblong in shape and has a hard, woody shell with a greenish-yellow or grayish-brown color. The fruit has a sweet, aromatic flavor and is used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

The Aegle tree has a distinctive appearance with its glossy, dark-green leaves that are oblong or ovate in shape and grow up to 6 inches long. The tree also has thorny branches and bears greenish-white flowers that are small and fragrant. The fruit of the Aegle tree is large and round or oblong in shape, with a hard, woody shell that is greenish-yellow or grayish-brown in color. Inside the fruit, there are numerous seeds surrounded by a stringy, yellowish pulp that has a sweet, aromatic flavor.

Care Guide

Aegle is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to grow and care for. Here are some tips for growing and caring for Aegle:

• Water: Aegle trees require regular watering, especially during the growing season. Water the tree deeply once a week, making sure the soil is moist but not waterlogged.
• Fertilization: Aegle trees benefit from regular fertilization with a balanced fertilizer. Apply the fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
• Soil: Aegle trees prefer well-draining, fertile soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should be slightly acidic with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5.
• Sunlight: Aegle trees require full sun to partial shade. Plant the tree in a location that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
• Hardiness Zones: Aegle trees are hardy in USDA zones 10-12.

Common Pests & Diseases

Aegle trees are generally resistant to pests and diseases, but they may occasionally be affected by the following:

• Fruit flies: Fruit flies may attack the fruit of Aegle trees, causing damage and reducing yield.
• Powdery mildew: Powdery mildew may affect the leaves of Aegle trees, causing them to become covered in a white, powdery substance.
• Root rot: Overwatering or poorly draining soil can lead to root rot in Aegle trees, which can cause the tree to wilt and die.

Habitat

Aegle trees are native to India and Southeast Asia, where they grow in a variety of habitats including tropical forests, savannas, and scrublands. The trees are also cultivated in other parts of the world, including Africa, the Caribbean, and South America.

Question and Answer

Q: What is the bael fruit used for?
A: The bael fruit is used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments, including diarrhea, dysentery, and respiratory infections.

Q: How tall do Aegle trees grow?
A: Aegle trees can grow up to 40 feet tall.

Q: Are Aegle trees difficult to care for?
A: No, Aegle trees are low-maintenance and easy to care for.

Q: Can Aegle trees grow in cold climates?
A: No, Aegle trees are hardy in USDA zones 10-12 and cannot tolerate freezing temperatures.

Related Plants

• Citrus
• Ruta
• Zanthoxylum
• Dictamnus

References

• “Aegle.” The Plant List. Accessed 24 June 2021. http://www.theplantlist.org/browse/A/Rutaceae/Aegle/
• “Bael Fruit.” Purdue University Center for New Crops & Plant Products. Accessed 24 June 2021. https://hort.purdue.edu/newcrop/morton/bael_fruit.html
• “Aegle marmelos.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 24 June 2021. http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=d553