Question 1

What is Limonia acidissima called in Sri Lanka?

Accepted Answer

Limonia acidissima is known in Sinhala as 'Divul' (දිවුල්) and in Tamil as 'Vilam pazham'. It is also commonly called wood apple or elephant apple in English. The fruit is widely recognised across the island and used in both Ayurvedic medicine and everyday cooking.

Question 2

What does wood apple taste like?

Accepted Answer

Wood apple pulp has a complex, intensely sour and slightly fermented flavour with earthy, tangy notes. The raw smell can be off-putting at first, but the taste mellows when combined with sugar, coconut milk, or jaggery. Most people encounter it as a sweetened drink or jam rather than eating the raw pulp directly.

Question 3

What are the health benefits of Limonia acidissima?

Accepted Answer

In Ayurvedic practice, Limonia acidissima is valued primarily as a digestive aid, with the ripe fruit used to settle stomach complaints and the unripe fruit used for its astringent properties. It also contains vitamin C, fibre, and various antioxidant compounds. While traditional uses are well documented, you should consult a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner before using it therapeutically.

Question 4

Where can I try wood apple in Sri Lanka?

Accepted Answer

Wood apple drinks and preserves are available at local markets, roadside stalls, and village shops throughout Sri Lanka, especially in the dry zone regions of the North Central and Northern provinces. Many traditional restaurants and home kitchens also serve wood apple juice or chutney. Fruit farms and rural homestays occasionally offer fresh wood apple during the fruiting season.

Question 5

When does Limonia acidissima fruit in Sri Lanka?

Accepted Answer

Wood apple trees in Sri Lanka typically fruit from around January to March, though this can vary with altitude, rainfall patterns, and the specific location. The trees are deciduous and the fruit often ripens as the dry season sets in. Fallen fruit can sometimes be found under trees in national park landscapes during this period.

Question 6

Is wood apple used in Ayurvedic medicine in Sri Lanka?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Limonia acidissima is formally recognised in Sri Lanka's Ayurvedic pharmacopoeia. The fruit, leaves, bark, and roots all have documented traditional uses. It is one of many native trees catalogued in the island's system of indigenous medicine, alongside plants such as Acacia chundra and Pongamia pinnata.

Question 7

What animals eat wood apple in the wild?

Accepted Answer

Elephants are perhaps the most well-known consumers of wild wood apple fruit, which is one reason it is called 'elephant apple' in some regions. Deer, monkeys, and various birds also feed on the fallen fruit. In areas like Wilpattu, wild wood apple trees form part of the natural food source for local wildlife.