Red Amla Plant Description

Scientific Name: Phyllanthus emblica
Family: Phyllanthaceae
Tamil Name: சிவப்பு நெல்லிக்காய் (Sivappu Nellikkai)

Tree Characteristics

• Height: Typically grows between 8–10 meters (26–33 feet), similar to the green variety.

• Crown: Spreading, dense, and bushy, offering good shade.

• Bark: Grayish-brown, smooth when young, becoming rough with age.

Leaves

• Shape: Pinnate, with small, narrow oval leaflets.

• Size: Each leaflet is about 1–2 cm (0.4–0.8 inches) long.

• Color: Light green when young, maturing to dark green.

Flowers

• Structure: Small, inconspicuous greenish-yellow flowers.

• Size: Flowers measure approximately 1 cm (0.4 inches) in diameter.

• Blooming Period: Blooms in spring and early summer.

Fruit

• Shape: Round, with a slightly flattened top.

• Size: Typically 2–3 cm (0.8–1.2 inches) in diameter.

• Color: Reddish hue, turning deeper as it ripens.

• Skin: Smooth and thin, with a glossy appearance.

• Flesh: Tart and juicy with a reddish-pink tone, slightly sweeter than green amla.

• Seeds: Contains 1–3 large seeds in each fruit.

Growing Conditions

• Climate: Prefers tropical and subtropical climates with full sun.

• Soil: Thrives in well-drained sandy or loamy soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0–7.0).

• Watering: Requires moderate watering; proper drainage is important to prevent waterlogging.

Uses

• Culinary: Often used in juices, jams, and pickles. The slightly sweeter flavor compared to green amla makes it popular in fruit salads and desserts.

• Medicinal: Red amla is valued for its rich antioxidant content, vitamin C, and ability to boost immunity and improve skin health.

• Aesthetic: Frequently grown in gardens for its ornamental and fruit-bearing qualities.

Pests and Diseases

• Common Pests: Vulnerable to pests such as aphids, fruit flies, and mealybugs.

• Diseases: Susceptible to root rot and powdery mildew, especially in overly moist conditions. Proper care and regular monitoring are recommended.