Velvet Apple
Diospyros blancoi A.DC.
Location
Botanical Garden
Family
Ebenaceae
Common names
Velvet Apple, Mabolo
Native range
Philippines
Habitat
Tropical lowland forests and cultivated gardens
Flowering
Flowering occurs throughout the year in tropical climates
Fruiting
Fruiting typically following 3–6 months after flowering.
Conservation status
Not threatened; widely cultivated in the Philippines and other tropical regions
About this plant
Diospyros blancoi is a medium-sized evergreen tree, typically growing 8–15 metres tall, with a dense, rounded crown. Bark is dark brown to black and smooth in young trees, becoming rough with age. Leaves are simple, alternate, elliptic to oblong, dark green, and glossy on the upper surface with velvety undersides. Flowers are small, yellowish to cream, usually unisexual and borne singly or in small clusters. Fruits are round to slightly oblong, about 5–10 cm in diameter, with a velvety reddish-brown skin and creamy, fragrant pulp. The seeds are hard, brown, and few in number.
Uses
The fruit is edible and consumed fresh, valued for its sweet and creamy pulp. It is also used in jams and desserts. Traditional medicinal uses include treatment of diarrhea, dysentery, and inflammation using bark or leaves in folk remedies. The tree is occasionally planted as an ornamental due to its attractive foliage and fruits.
Growing conditions
Thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers fertile, well-drained soils. Requires regular watering but tolerates short periods of drought once established. Sensitive to frost and prolonged waterlogging. Suitable for tropical home gardens and orchards
Habit
Evergreen tree