Indian gooseberry (Phyllanthus emblica)

Fruit of the Indian gooseberry

If you are lucky enough to live in a climate without frost (or very weak) and you need a fruit tree that provides shade and that is also not seen every day, let me introduce you to the Indian gooseberry.

It is a fast growing plant with which you will not have any problems. Learn more.

Origin and characteristics

Indian gooseberry tree

Image - Flickr /Tony rodd

Our protagonist is a generally deciduous tree native to the tropical and subtropical regions of Asia. Its scientific name is Phyllanthus emblica, although it is popularly known as Indian gooseberry and embolic myrobalan. Grows up reach a height of 6-8 meters, and has a wide crown, almost weeping demeanor. Pinnate leaves sprout from the branches, green in color.

The flowers are yellowish, and the fruit is a greenish-yellow almost spherical berry., with a sour, bitter and astringent taste. The latter finishes maturing in autumn, and as soon as they are harvested they are put in salty water for a few days so that they can be consumed. And it is that, despite this, it is very beneficial for health since it is rich in vitamin C (445mg per 100g), so it is a good remedy for respiratory diseases (colds, flu), and has even been shown to improve arthritis and osteoporosis.

What are their cares?

If you want to have a copy, we recommend that you provide it with the following care:

  • Location: outside, in full sun. Plant at a distance of 5m from any construction, pipes, etc.
  • Earth:
    • Garden: fertile, with good drainage.
    • Pot: universal growing substrate mixed with 30% perlite.
  • Irrigation: 3-4 times a week in summer, somewhat less the rest of the year.
  • Subscriber: from early spring to late summer with ecological fertilizers once a month. Use liquids if it is potted so that the drainage remains good.
  • Multiplication: by seeds in spring.
  • Pruning: at the end of winter, dry, diseased or weak branches must be removed.
  • Rusticity: up to -1ºC, as long as they are specific and short-term frosts.

What did you think of the Indian gooseberry? Did you know him?


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