Bael fruit - Aegle marmelos (Care, Characteristics, Distribution, Images)

Bael fruit

Also known as: Bengal quince

The bael fruit (Aegle marmelos) is native to India and Southeast Asia. Considered sacred by Hindus, the tree is used in some of their religious rites. Although it is similar in appearance to a pear, the fruit is incredibly dense and, when cracked open with a hammer, smells faintly like roses! The fruit is gifted in Nepal to young women as a fertility token.

Scientific classification

Species

Bael fruit (Aegle marmelos)

Maples, mangos, mahogany, citrus, and allies

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Perennial

Lifespan

13 m

Plant Height

5 m

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

1.5 cm to 2 cm

Flower Size

Yellow, Gold

Fruit Color

White, Yellow, Green

Flower Color

Red

Stem Color

Deciduous

Leaf type

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Bael fruit

Distribution of Bael fruit

Distribution Map

Bael fruit is a plant with its roots deeply ingrained in the warm soils of the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia. Its reach has since expanded, having been introduced to parts of East Asia, the Caribbean, Central America, the Pacific Islands, and tropical Africa where it is cultivated. This expansion highlights the plant's adaptability to new and diverse climates beyond its native range.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Dry forests on hills and plains, mixed deciduous, dry dipterocarp forests

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Care Guide for Bael fruit

Every 2 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Bael fruit thrives in dry environments with minimal rainfall and shows excellent drought tolerance. Once established, it requires watering every two weeks and features waxy leaves to minimize water loss, making it ideal for xeriscaping and arid gardens.

Fertilize: To enhance bael fruit's growth, apply high nitrogen fertilizers quarterly in spring and summer, reducing to biannually in winter. Mature plants require 500g, while younger ones need less. Use slow-release formulas and ensure moist soil before application, adjusting as bael fruit matures.

Pruning: Bael fruit thrives with late winter pruning, which includes removing dead branches, thinning for airflow, and shaping for balance. This practice minimizes sap loss and boosts spring growth, enhancing fruit quality while reducing pest risks. Always use clean, sharp tools for disease prevention.

Propagation: Bael fruit propagation is most effective via seed sowing, using ripe fruits. Treat seeds by soaking to improve germination. Ensure consistent moisture and protect seedlings from extreme temperatures. Once established, transplant young plants to their final locations for optimal growth.

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