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Description
Dillenia Philippinensis or commonly known as the Philippine Elephant Apple is a tropical tree that belongs to the family Dilleniaceae. It is native to Southeast Asia, particularly in the Philippines, where it was first discovered. This plant can grow up to 20 meters tall and has a trunk diameter of up to 50 cm. It has a smooth, grayish bark and large, glossy leaves that can grow up to 30 cm long and 15 cm wide. The flowers are large and showy, measuring up to 25 cm in diameter, and are usually yellow or cream-colored.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Angiospermae |
| Order | Dilleniales |
| Family | Dilleniaceae |
| Genus | Dillenia |
Appearance
The Philippine Elephant Apple is easily recognizable because of its large size and showy flowers. Its leaves are glossy and have an oval shape with a pointed tip. The bark is smooth and grayish, and the tree has a straight trunk that can grow up to 50 cm in diameter. The flowers are the most striking feature of this plant, measuring up to 25 cm in diameter and are usually yellow or cream-colored. The fruit is also large and round, measuring up to 12 cm in diameter, and has a hard, woody shell that is used in traditional medicine.
Care Guide
Philippine Elephant Apple is a low maintenance plant and requires minimal care to grow healthy. Here are some care tips to keep your plant healthy:
- Water: Water the plant regularly, especially during the dry season. The plant requires moderate watering, and the soil should be moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant during the growing season, using a balanced fertilizer that is rich in nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It can grow in different soil types but thrives in loamy soil.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun exposure but can tolerate partial shade. It needs at least six hours of sunlight to grow healthy.
- Hardiness Zones: The Philippine Elephant Apple can grow in USDA hardiness zones 10-12.
Common Pests & Diseases
Philippine Elephant Apple is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can still be affected by some common pests and diseases, which include:
- Scale Insects: These insects can cause yellowing of leaves and stunted growth. Use insecticidal soap to get rid of them.
- Mites: These pests can cause discoloration of leaves and damage to the plant. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to eradicate them.
- Root Rot: This disease is caused by overwatering and poorly drained soil. Improve drainage and avoid overwatering to prevent this disease.
- Leaf Spot: This disease is caused by fungi that can cause spotting on the leaves. Use a fungicide to control it.
Habitat
The Philippine Elephant Apple is native to Southeast Asia, particularly in the Philippines. It grows in tropical rainforests, along riverbanks, and in other areas that have a humid climate. It prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter and can grow in different soil types, including sandy and loamy soil. It can grow up to 20 meters tall and requires at least six hours of sunlight to grow healthy.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Philippine Elephant Apple a medicinal plant?
A: Yes, the Philippine Elephant Apple has been used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments such as fever, cough, and diarrhea.
Q: Can the Philippine Elephant Apple be grown in pots?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in pots as long as it is provided with adequate space and proper care.
Q: How long does it take for the Philippine Elephant Apple to bear fruit?
A: The plant can start bearing fruit after three to four years of planting.
Q: Can the Philippine Elephant Apple grow in cold climates?
A: No, the plant requires a warm and humid climate to grow healthy and cannot survive in cold climates.
Related Plants
- Dillenia Reticulata
- Dillenia Suffruticosa
- Dillenia Indica
- Dillenia Aurea
References
- “Dillenia Philippinensis.” World Agroforestry Centre. Accessed August 31, 2021. https://www.worldagroforestry.org/treedb2/speciesprofile.php?Spid=18150.
- “Dillenia Philippinensis.” Useful Tropical Plants. Accessed August 31, 2021. https://tropical.theferns.info/viewtropical.php?id=Dillenia+philippinensis.
- “Philippine Elephant Apple.” Gardening Know How. Accessed August 31, 2021. https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/trees/elephant-apple/philippine-elephant-apple.htm.
