Star Apple tree (Chrysophyllum cainito)

Star Apple tree, commonly known as 'Chrysophyllum cainito' is a very beautiful, evergreen and medium size tree. Though it is not native to India, it has been naturalized in India. The tree is also known as Cainito, Caimito, Golden leaf tree, Milk fruit and Estrella. In Fort area of Mumbai, many beautiful specimens existed at one time; but due to road widening some have disappeared and some are trimmed badly.

Sapling in a park

Golden underside of leaves

The tree grows to about 15 meters high with very dense foliage. Slightly leathery leaves are dark green and glossy with the underside having brownish-golden colour. The trunk is rough. It is comparatively slow growing tree. This tree bears flowers and fruit between January to April. Flowers are mildly scented. The ripe fruit is edible and supposed to be very tasty. The rind is tough and is not edible. The rind has also milky sap which should not be ingested. The fruit when cut shows star-like formation, hence it is called as Star apple. The fruit and some parts of the tree are supposed to have medicinal properties.

Cainito tree in Fort area of Mumbai

Trunk of the tree

Flowers

Fruit

This tree belongs to Sapotaceae family, to which Chiku or Sapota also belongs.

Diploclisia glaucescens (Vatoli)

Diploclisia glaucescens, commonly known as Vatoli is a large, woody climber. Leaves of the plant are almost round hence the name 'Vatoli, वाटोळी'; which means circular. Leaf stalks of this plant are longer than the leaf blades.

The climber flowers from March to April. Tiny yellow flowers are borne in clusters. Flowers mainly appear on the main trunk as well as on mature, woody branches. Fruits start appearing in monsoon. It belongs to Menispermaceae family. This climber is native to India. The climber has certain medicinal properties.