Dilip Walse Patil

Scientific Name : Mimusops elengi L.

Category : Angiosperms

Status : Alive

Habit : A small evergreen tree with a compact leafy head. Leaves : Elliptic, acute. Inflorescence : Solitary or in fascicle of 2-6. Flowers : White, fragrant, pedicle deflexed. Calyx hairy, segments 8, the outer 4, ovate lanceolate, the 4 inner narrower than outer. Corolla longer than calyx lobes 24, in 2-series, the inner series of 8, the outer of 16, linear, oblong, acute. Stamens 8, filaments short, anthers slightly twisted, staminodes 8, alternate with the stamens, lanceolate, hairs white. Ovary hairy, 6-8 celled, style grooved. Fruit : Berry ovoid, yellow, 1-seeded. Flowering and Fruiting Time : January-April Significance : Planted in the gardens and road-side everywhere. The fragrant flowers are used for making garlands and much used by Indian ladies to wear in hairs. A delightful perfume is distilled from the flowers.