Mutti Pazham (Baccaurea Courtallensis)

Baccaurea courtallensis, commonly known as Courtallam Plum, is a tropical fruit tree native to the Western Ghats in India. Here is a more detailed description of the Baccaurea courtallensis fruit plant:

Tree Description:

• Baccaurea courtallensis is a medium-sized to large-sized tree that can grow up to 20-30 meters in height when fully mature.
• The tree has a straight trunk with a dense, spreading canopy of branches and leaves.
• The leaves of Baccaurea courtallensis are large, glossy, and evergreen, with an elliptical or oblong shape and prominent veins.
• The bark of the tree is typically smooth and light brown in color, with some irregular flaking.

Fruit Description:

• Baccaurea courtallensis produces small to medium-sized fruits that are typically ovoid or ellipsoidal in shape.
• The fruit has a thick, fleshy pericarp or rind that is usually green when unripe and turns yellow or orange when ripe.
• The flesh of Baccaurea courtallensis fruits is juicy, translucent, and usually has a sweet-sour taste with a hint of bitterness.
• The fruit typically contains several small seeds or stones embedded in the flesh, which are usually surrounded by a gelatinous pulp.

Cultivation:

• Baccaurea courtallensis is usually grown in tropical or subtropical regions with warm temperatures and high humidity.
• The tree prefers well-drained, fertile soils and can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clayey soils.
• Baccaurea courtallensis trees are usually propagated by seeds, which are sown directly in the ground or in containers.
• The tree requires regular watering, especially during dry periods, and benefits from mulching to conserve moisture in the soil.
• Pruning may be done to shape the tree or remove dead or diseased branches, but it is not typically required for fruit production.
• Baccaurea courtallensis is usually grown for its fruit, which is harvested when ripe by hand or by shaking the branches to dislodge the fruits.
• The fruits are usually consumed fresh, either on their own or in various culinary applications, such as salads, chutneys, and preserves.

Uses:

• Baccaurea courtallensis fruits are primarily consumed fresh due to their sweet-sour taste and juicy flesh.
• The fruit is also used in some traditional medicinal practices for its potential health benefits.
• In some regions, the leaves of Baccaurea courtallensis are used as fodder for livestock.
• The wood of the tree is occasionally used for construction and making small household items.
• Baccaurea courtallensis is also known for its ornamental value, with its attractive foliage and fruits making it a desirable tree for landscaping purposes.

In conclusion, Baccaurea courtallensis, or Courtallam Plum, is a tropical fruit tree known for its small to medium-sized fruits with a sweet-sour taste and juicy flesh. It is typically grown in tropical or subtropical regions and is primarily consumed fresh. The tree has ornamental value and is occasionally used for medicinal and other purposes