Contents
Description
Antidesma Ghaesembilla, also known as Phyllanthus emblica or Indian gooseberry, is a deciduous tree that grows up to 60 feet tall. It is found in India, Southeast Asia, and China. The fruit of this tree is edible and is used in various traditional medicines.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malpighiales |
| Family | Phyllanthaceae |
| Genus | Antidesma |
Appearance
Antidesma Ghaesembilla has a smooth bark that is grayish-brown in color. The leaves are simple, alternate, and ovate in shape. They are about 1-3 inches long and 1-2 inches wide. The flowers are small, greenish-yellow in color, and appear in clusters. The fruit is a round, greenish-yellow berry that is about 1 inch in diameter. It is edible and has a sour taste.
Care Guide
Antidesma Ghaesembilla requires well-draining soil and regular watering. It can tolerate partial shade but prefers full sun. Fertilize the tree with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season. This tree is hardy in USDA zones 10-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Antidesma Ghaesembilla is susceptible to mealybugs, scale insects, and spider mites. It can also get infected with leaf spot, powdery mildew, and root rot. Regular inspection and treatment with insecticides and fungicides can prevent pests and diseases.
Habitat
Antidesma Ghaesembilla is native to India, Southeast Asia, and China. It grows in tropical and subtropical regions and is commonly found in forests, hills, and plains.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Antidesma Ghaesembilla a fruit tree?
A: Yes, the fruit of Antidesma Ghaesembilla is edible and is used in various traditional medicines.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Antidesma Ghaesembilla?
A: Antidesma Ghaesembilla is hardy in USDA zones 10-11.
Q: How often should I water Antidesma Ghaesembilla?
A: Antidesma Ghaesembilla requires regular watering, especially during the growing season. Water the tree deeply once a week.
Q: What pests and diseases affect Antidesma Ghaesembilla?
A: Antidesma Ghaesembilla can get infected with mealybugs, scale insects, spider mites, leaf spot, powdery mildew, and root rot.
Related Plants
- Antidesma acidum
- Antidesma bunius
- Antidesma ghaesembilla
- Antidesma montanum
References
- “Antidesma Ghaesembilla”. Plants of the World Online. Kew Science.
- “Antidesma Ghaesembilla”. Missouri Botanical Garden.
- “Antidesma Ghaesembilla”. Flora of China.
