- Common name:
- Phalsa
- Regional name:
- Hindi – Phalsa, Marathi - Phalsa, Kannada – Phulsha, Telugu – Phutiki, Gujarati - Shukri, Sanskrit – Mriduphal, Oriya – Pharosakoli, Malayalam - Chadicha, Tamil - Unnu
- Category:
-
Fruit Plants, Shrubs, Trees
- Family:
- Tiliaceae,Grewia asiatica,Phalsa
-
1. Introduction to Phalsa Fruit
-
Botanical Name: Grewia asiatica
-
Common Names: Phalsa, Falsa, Falsay
-
Origin: Native to India and Southeast Asia
2. Plantation and Growing Conditions
-
Climate: Prefers tropical and subtropical climates
-
Soil: Well-draining, sandy-loam to loamy soils with a pH of 6.5-8.5
-
Propagation: Seedlings, cuttings, or air layering
-
Spacing: 5-6 meters between plants
-
Sunlight: Requires full sun exposure
3. Plant Care
-
Watering: Consistent moisture, but avoid overwatering or waterlogging
-
Pruning: Regular pruning for shape and size control, remove dead or diseased branches
-
Fertilization: Balanced fertilizer, applied every 3-4 months during growing season
-
Pest Control: Monitor for pests like mealybugs, aphids, and scale insects, and use appropriate control measures
4. Harvesting
-
Season: April to June, depending on location
-
Maturity: 2-3 years after planting
-
Indication: Ripe fruits turn dark purple, soft to touch, and have a sweet taste
-
Method: Hand-picking or gently shaking the tree
5. Benefits of Phalsa Fruit
-
Nutritional Value: Rich in Vitamin C, calcium, and antioxidants
-
Health Benefits: Aids in digestion, boosts immunity, reduces inflammation, and has cooling effects
-
Culinary Uses: Consumed fresh, used in beverages, jams, jellies, and desserts
-
Medicinal Uses: Treats respiratory issues, stomach ailments, and skin conditions
-
Ecological Benefits: Attracts pollinators, provides habitat for wildlife, and helps prevent soil erosion
6. Other Uses
-
Timber: The wood is used for making small furniture, tools, and fuel
-
Fiber: Bark fibers are used in making ropes and paper
-
Dye: The fruit and leaves can be used for natural dyeing
-
Ornamental: Can be grown as an ornamental plant due to its attractive foliage and flowers