We planted the first Dillenia philippinensis outside our house 20 years ago more for its dense form and attractive leaves which are serrated along the edges. It also produces golf-size fruits known as elephant apple. So am happy even if it doesn’t flower as frequently. In fact we grew to like it so much we planted two more trees subsequently. The flowers, though not profuse, are large and showy, with five white petals and a red centre. The blooms come in single or a pair, and last for only a day

Maçã de Elefante (Dillenia indica), também conhecida como flor de abril, bolsa de pastor, árvore do dinheiro, árvore da pataca, dilênia... Nativa da Ásia, principalmente a região da Índia. É uma planta ornamental que tem as folhas grandes e enrugadas, sendo muito bonitas. Seus frutos sãos grandes, e tem a forma parecida com cabeça de repolho, de cor verde, lembrando um pouco o coco por ter a casca dura. Em seu interior, possui alguns sementes. A polpa possui um cheiro forte e é pegajosa. Utiliza

We’ve come across some strange things in Niassa, and this giant… fruit? is up there. Locals know it well, but we’re still guessing. It grows in riverine areas and the leaves are known to attract red fire ants looking to build nests. Names thrown around camp include Strychnos spinosa (Giant Monkey Orange), Dillenia indica (Elephant Apple), and a species of Syzygium. Whatever it is, it’s one of Niassa’s stranger finds. What’s your guess? | Mutambo Films