Amla

Phyllanthus emblica

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Description

Amla, or Phyllanthus emblica, is a deciduous tree native to the Indian subcontinent, playing a vital role in agroecology and regenerative agriculture. It is a mid-canopy layer tree in food forests, contributing to soil fertility through its nutrient-rich leaf litter. Amla is traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine and is highly valued for its nutritional benefits, particularly its high vitamin C content. It serves as a windbreak and erosion control plant, thriving in diverse soil conditions. Amla is often integrated into guilds with nitrogen-fixing plants like pigeon pea (Cajanus cajan) and ground covers such as clover to enhance soil health and biodiversity.

Growing Details

Amla trees thrive in well-drained loamy soils with a pH of 5.5 to 7.5. Prior to planting, enrich the soil with organic compost and mulch with straw or wood chips to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Companion plants such as marigold can help repel nematodes, while basil can deter aphids. Avoid waterlogging, as it can lead to root rot. Harvest fruits in late autumn when they are firm and greenish-yellow. Store in a cool, dry place to extend shelf life.

Edible Parts
Fruit
Tags
Hedge Carbon Farming Attracts Wildlife Fire Wood Windbreak Erosion Preventing Bee Friendly Visual Appeal Easy Propagating Tea
Range (Based on GBIF Data)

The map shows known occurrence points of <strong>Phyllanthus emblica</strong> recorded in scientific biodiversity databases.

Source: <a href="https://www.gbif.org" target="_blank">GBIF.org</a> โ€” Global Biodiversity Information Facility

Location & Timing
native geo location: Native to the Indian subcontinent
applicable geo region: South Asia
language used: en
Flowering: beginning of April for 30 days
Harvest: beginning of October for 60 days
Seed Start: beginning of March
Indoor Start:
Transplant:
Uses & Benefits
Edible Rating: (5/5)
edible uses: The fruit of Amla is consumed fresh, dried, or processed into products like juices, candies, and pickles. It is exceptionally rich in vitamin C and antioxidants. The fruit is harvested in the autumn months and can be stored in a cool, dry place for several weeks. It is a staple in health foods and supplements, often used to boost immunity and improve skin health.
Medicinal Rating: (5/5)
medicinal uses: Amla is a cornerstone of Ayurvedic medicine, used for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immune-boosting properties. It aids digestion, supports cardiovascular health, and enhances skin and hair vitality. The fruit is often consumed as a powder or juice, and caution is advised for individuals with low blood sugar levels due to its potential hypoglycemic effects.
health concerns: Individuals with hypoglycemia should consume Amla with caution due to its potential to lower blood sugar levels.
other uses: The wood of the Amla tree is used for firewood, and its leaves serve as an excellent mulch to improve soil quality. The tree also provides habitat for various wildlife species, enhancing biodiversity.
Scientific Literature

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Botanical data
specie: Phyllanthus emblica
common names: Indian Gooseberry; Amla; Emblic
family: Phyllanthaceae
sub family:
tribe:
sub tribe:
genus: Phyllanthus
Growing Conditions
area needed: 4.0 m
spacing: 5.0 m
growing difficulty: Low
Deciduous / Evergreen: Evergreen
Seed Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 25ยฐC / 20ยฐC / 30ยฐC
Plant Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 25ยฐC / 5ยฐC / 40ยฐC
water demands: Medium
humidity:
light demands: High
root type: Medium
frost tender: Medium
hardness: โ–ˆ โ–ˆ โ–ˆ โ–ˆ โ–ˆ โ–ˆ โ–ˆ โ–ˆ โ–ˆ โ– (9/10)
first harvest: 5 years
life span: 50 years
succession: Mid
growth rate: Medium
max height: 18.0 m
max width: 8.0 m
soil preference: Medium (Loam)
pH preference: Neutral
flower type: Hermaphrodite
growth details: Amla trees thrive in well-drained loamy soils with a pH of 5.5 to 7.5. Prior to planting, enrich the soil with organic compost and mulch with straw or wood chips to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Companion plants such as marigold can help repel nematodes, while basil can deter aphids. Avoid waterlogging, as it can lead to root rot. Harvest fruits in late autumn when they are firm and greenish-yellow. Store in a cool, dry place to extend shelf life.
Potential Disturbances: Amla is susceptible to aphids and caterpillars. Introduce beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings to control aphid populations. Use neem oil or garlic spray as organic deterrents. Planting marigolds nearby can help repel nematodes, while trap cropping with mustard can attract and manage caterpillars.
Growth Timeline
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