Elephant Apple (Dillenia indica L.)

FamilyDilleniaceae
Scientific nameDillenia indica L.
Common name (English)Elephant Apple
Common name (Malay)Simpoh
Identified asIntroduced plant on Project M.A.R.S.’s land

Dillenia indica, commonly known as the elephant apple, is a tropical fruit tree in the Dilleniaceae family. Native to Southeast Asia, it is valued for its large, acidic fruits, which are used in traditional cuisine, preserves, and beverages. Various parts of the tree—including leaves, bark, and fruit—have been used in traditional medicine for their anti-inflammatory, digestive, and antimicrobial properties. With its distinctive fruits and cultural significance, Dillenia indica remains an important species in both culinary and medicinal traditions across its native range.