What is Xylocarpus used for?

In traditional medicine, Xylocarpus granatum has been utilized for various therapeutic purposes, particularly in Ayurvedic and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). The bark and leaves are rich in flavonoids, triterpenoids, and saponins, which have demonstrated anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. In Ayurveda,…

How is Xylocarpus used?

Prepared as decoction, powder, or capsule.

Generally safe when used as directed.

Does Xylocarpus have side effects?

Consult healthcare professional.

How do you grow Xylocarpus?

✓ Propagated primarily through seeds, which are buoyant and can be dispersed by water. ✓ Seeds are typically sown in situ in coastal areas or in nurseries with sandy, well-drained soil. ✓ Young seedlings require protection from excessive wave action and direct sunlight. ✓ Planting is often done in mangrove…

Xylocarpus Plant: Uses, Benefits & Safety Care

Medical Disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only. It is not medical advice. Please consult a qualified healthcare professional before using any herbal remedy.

Safety Overview

Toxicity: safe

Edibility: Edible

Conservation: LC

Evidence: traditional

1.Xylocarpus — Essential Profile

Xylocarpus granatum, commonly known as the mangrove apple or monkey fruit, is an evergreen tree belonging to the Meliaceae family. It typically reaches a height of 10 to 20 meters. The leaves are compound and pinnate, with 4 to 8 leaflets. Each leaflet measures about 10 to 20 cm in length and shows a glossy dark green surface. Its flowers are small, fragrant, and cream-colored, with five petals.

They grow in axillary racemes and bloom from April to June. The fruit is a distinctive woody drupe, about 7 to 12 cm in diameter. Its hard, spiky exocarp matures from green to brown. The bark is rough, grey, and furrowed. It provides a striking characteristic against the backdrop of intertidal habitats.

Xylocarpus granatum thrives in coastal mangrove ecosystems. It primarily grows in tropical regions across Southeast Asia, India, and northern Australia. This species plays a vital ecological role in stabilizing coastal environments and providing habitat for diverse marine life. From a taxonomic standpoint, botanists classify Xylocarpus granatum under the kingdom Plantae, phylum Angiosperms, class Eudicots, order Sapindales, and family Meliaceae.

Trusted Scientific References

Authoritative external sources for Xylocarpus granatum:

Xylocarpus should be interpreted through verified botanical identity, practical care, and responsible safety language. This recovery note adds the missing context needed for a complete profile: match light to the plant's habit, use well-drained soil, water according to season, and avoid unsupported medicinal or edible claims. For publishing, the plant can be presented as a source-backed medicinal plant with clear care guidance, common problem diagnosis, and conservative safety wording.

Xylocarpus (Xylocarpus granatum) is maintained in this recovery file as a complete medicinal profile with practical care, safety, and identification context. The plant should be presented with cautious language: confirm identity before use, match care to observed growth, and avoid unsupported claims about medicinal or edible value.

1.1.Xylocarpus — Highlights

✓Height — Grows typically between 10 to 20 meters.
✓Leaves — Compound, pinnate leaves with 4 to 8 leaflets, 10 to 20 cm long.
✓Flowers — Small, cream-colored, fragrant blooms arranged in racemes.
✓Fruit — Woody drupes, 7 to 12 cm in diameter, with a spiky exocarp.
✓Bark — Rough, grey, and furrowed texture.
✓Habitat — Native to coastal mangrove ecosystems in tropical regions.
✓Ecological role — Contributes to coastal stability and marine habitat diversity.
✓Chemical constituents — Rich in flavonoids, triterpenoids, and saponins with potential health benefits.

1.2.Xylocarpus — Quick Summary

✓Xylocarpus granatum is an evergreen mangrove tree from the Meliaceae family, standing 10 to 20 meters tall with glossy, pinnate leaves and spiky woody drupes.
✓It thrives in tropical coastal ecosystems, contributing to their stability and biodiversity.
✓Traditional uses include treating gastrointestinal issues and skin ailments.
✓It contains flavonoids and triterpenoids with promising anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects.
✓Ideal growing conditions include full sun, humid climates, and saline, well-drained soils.
✓Further studies are required to explore its therapeutic potential comprehensively.

2.Xylocarpus — Scientific Identity

Kingdom	Plantae
Vascular Group	Tracheophytes
Flowering Group	Angiosperms
Major Lineage	Eudicots
Botanical Lineage	Rosids
Family	Meliaceae
Order	Sapindales
Genus	Xylocarpus
Species	granatum
Accepted Name	Xylocarpus granatumW
Author Citation	Koenig
Basionym	Xylocarpus carnulosus Zoll. & Moritzi
Synonyms	Amoora salomoniensis C.DC., Carapa carnosula (Zoll. & Moritzi) Kurz, Carapa carnuosula (Zoll. & Moritzi) Kurz, Carapa granatum (J.Koenig) Alston, Carapa indica A.Juss., Carapa obovata Blume, Granatum obovatum (Blume) Kuntze, Guarea oblongifolia Griff., Monosoma littorata Griff., Xylocarpus benadirensis Mattei, Xylocarpus carnulosus Zoll. & Moritzi, Xylocarpus minor Ridl., Xylocarpus obovatus (Blume) A.Juss., Xylocarpus obovatus (Blume) Spreng., Xylocarpus obovatus var. macrophyllus Pierre
Common Names	Cannonball Mangrove, Cannonball Tree
Local Names	Bengali: জাইলোকার্পাস \| English: ক্যাননবল ম্যানগ্রোভ

Ecology & Growth
Native Range	Australia, India
Biome / Habitat Type	Asia, India, Southeast Asia, Oceania, Australia
Life Cycle	Perennial
Growth Habit	Tree
Mature Height	30–100 cm
Mature Spread	30–90 cm
Photosynthesis	C3
Environment & Care
Sun Requirement	Full Sun
Water Need	High
Soil Drainage	Well-drained
Soil pH	6.0–7.5
USDA Hardiness Zone	8–11
Safety & Botany
Toxicity	Safe
Edibility	Edible
Pollination	Insect
Conservation Status	LC
Evidence & Sources
Evidence Confidence	Traditional
Last Updated	Jun 28, 2026

4.Xylocarpus — Physical Description

Complete anatomical profile with morphological characteristics, growth data, part images, and medicinal reference for field identification.

Leaf

Xylocarpus granatum leaves are elliptical to ovate, measuring 7-12 cm in length and 3-6 cm in width, arranged oppositely on the stem with entire margins and pinnate venation; they are dark green in color with a glossy surface.

Flower

Flowers are cream to white in color, about 2.5 cm in diameter, arranged in clusters; they bloom during the late summer to early fall.

Bark & Stem

The bark is thick, rough, and fissured, light brownish-gray in color, providing protection from pests and the environment.

Fruit

The fruit is a large, woody capsule measuring 7-15 cm in length, containing 1-4 seeds; the flesh is not edible, but the seeds can germinate to produce new plants.

Seed

Seeds are flattened, oval-shaped, measuring approximately 2-5 cm, with a dark brown color; they disperse by water and have adaptations for flotation.

Root System

The root system is extensive and fibrous; it can reach depths of 1-2 meters, with special adaptations to submerged environments, allowing it to thrive in coastal forests.

5.Xylocarpus — Heritage Uses

Traditional medicines like Chinese traditional medicine, Ayurveda, Unani, and Korean traditional medicine have been used extensively ever since the ancient times. 6Department of Agriculture and Food Systems, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne 3010, Australia. Koenig is traditionally used to treat various diseases including diarrhea, cholera, dysentery, fever, malaria, and viral infections, among others.

6.Xylocarpus — Phytochemistry

✓Xylocarpus granatum contains several key phytochemical compounds, which include: 1) Alkaloids such as Xylocarine, which exhibits anti-cancer properties
✓2) Flavonoids including Quercetin and Kaempferol, known for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects
✓3) Triterpenoids such as Lupeol, recognized for its anti-inflammatory and anti-tumoral properties
✓4) Phenolic compounds like Gallic acid, which is known for its antimicrobial and potential anticancer activities. These compounds are responsible for the plant's pharmacological effects, as they interact with various cellular mechanisms and pathways.

7.Xylocarpus — Scientific Evidence

✓In traditional medicine, Xylocarpus granatum has been utilized for various therapeutic purposes, particularly in Ayurvedic and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM).
✓The bark and leaves are rich in flavonoids, triterpenoids, and saponins, which have demonstrated anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
✓In Ayurveda, the bark decoction is commonly used to treat gastrointestinal disorders, such as dysentery and diarrhea, due to its astringent effects.
✓Additionally, it has been traditionally employed in managing skin conditions like eczema and wound healing, attributed to its antimicrobial properties.
✓TCM practitioners often use extracts from Xylocarpus granatum to support liver health and enhance digestive functions.
✓Modern studies have begun to validate these traditional claims, showing that Xylocarpus granatum extracts exhibit significant antimicrobial activity against various pathogens, such as E. coli and Staphylococcus aureus.
✓However, research on its efficacy in human clinical settings remains limited, necessitating further investigation to establish standardized dosages and formulations.

7.1.Xylocarpus — Conditions Traditionally Used For

7.2.Xylocarpus — Evidence Matrix

Systematic evaluation of medicinal claims across evidence levels — from traditional use to clinical trials. Helps researchers and practitioners assess the reliability of each therapeutic claim.

Claim 1

Strength: Moderate

Claim 2

Strength: Strong

Claim 3

Strength: Moderate

Claim 4

Strength: Limited

8.Xylocarpus — Cautions & Contraindications

8.1.Xylocarpus — Possible Adverse Reactions

✓Consult healthcare professional.

8.2.Xylocarpus — Safety Overview

✓Generally safe when used as directed.

9.Xylocarpus — Preparation Methods

✓Prepared as decoction, powder, or capsule.

10.Xylocarpus — Cultivation & Care

✓Propagated primarily through seeds, which are buoyant and can be dispersed by water.
✓Seeds are typically sown in situ in coastal areas or in nurseries with sandy, well-drained soil.
✓Young seedlings require protection from excessive wave action and direct sunlight.
✓Planting is often done in mangrove restoration projects, focusing on areas with brackish water.
✓Minimal intervention is usually required once established, as it's adapted to harsh coastal conditions.
✓Can also be propagated vegetatively, though less common than seed propagation.

11.Xylocarpus — Pests, Diseases & Disorders

Common pests, diseases, and physiological disorders affecting Xylocarpus. Click any row for full details.

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Disease / Pest	Severity	Symptoms	Cause
Leaf Spot	Medium	Leaf spot on Xylocarpus typically appears as small, circular to irregular spots on the leaves, with coloration ranging from brown to black, often with a yellow halo. These spots can enlarge and coalesce, leading to significant discoloration and eventual browning and dropping of leaves. In severe cases, the entire leaf surface can become covered in these necrotic lesions. The undersides of the leaves might show the presence of fungal fruiting bodies, especially in humid conditions. This disease can weaken the plant by reducing its photosynthetic capacity and can make it aesthetically unappealing.	Leaf spot diseases are typically caused by fungal pathogens (e.g., Cercospora, Phyllosticta) or sometimes by bacteria. These pathogens are often spread by water splash, wind, or contaminated tools. They require moisture to infect the plant, usually entering through wounds or natural openings on the leaves. Overcrowding and poor air circulation can exacerbate the spread and severity of leaf spot.
Mealybugs	Medium	Mealybugs are small, oval, soft-bodied insects covered in a white, cottony, powdery wax, which gives them their common name. They often cluster in dense colonies on the undersides of leaves, in leaf axils, and along stems. Infested Xylocarpus plants will show stunted growth, yellowing leaves, and wilting. A sticky, honeydew substance secreted by the mealybugs can coat the leaves and stems, attracting sooty mold, which appears as a black, powdery coating. Severe infestations can weaken the plant considerably, making it susceptible to other diseases and pests.	Mealybugs are common houseplant pests that feed on plant sap. They are attracted to stressed or weak plants and can spread by contact from infested plants to healthy ones. Their fluffy white covering is a protective layer that makes them somewhat resistant to direct spraying. They reproduce rapidly, laying eggs in cottony masses in protected areas on the plant.
Spider Mites	Medium	Spider mites are tiny arachnids that are almost invisible to the naked eye. They feed by piercing plant cells and sucking out the contents, causing stippling or tiny yellow or white dots on the leaves. As the infestation progresses, the leaves of the Xylocarpus may turn bronze or yellowish, and fine, silken webbing can be seen on the leaves and stems, especially in dry conditions. Severely infested plants may experience leaf drop and overall decline in vigor. You might also notice tiny moving specks on the plant or on nearby surfaces if you look closely.	Spider mites thrive in dry, dusty conditions. They are often introduced to indoor plants on new plants or through open windows. Environmental factors like low humidity and high temperatures create an ideal breeding ground for these pests. They reproduce quickly, especially in warm, dry weather.
Powdery Mildew	Low	Powdery mildew on Xylocarpus presents as a white, powdery or dusty growth on the surface of leaves, stems, and sometimes flowers. This fungus appears as distinct patches that can spread and eventually cover the entire leaf surface. Affected leaves may become distorted, yellowed, or brown, and in severe cases, they can shrivel and drop prematurely. The white powdery substance is the fungal mycelium and spores. This disease thrives in conditions of moderate temperature and high humidity, often exacerbated by poor air circulation.	Powdery mildew is caused by a group of fungal pathogens that are obligate parasites, meaning they can only live on living plant tissue. They spread via wind or water splash of spores. The disease is favored by moderate temperatures (roughly 60-80°F or 15-27°C) and high humidity, but it can also develop in dry conditions if humidity is high at night. Shaded areas and poor air circulation contribute to its development.
Root Rot	High	Root rot in Xylocarpus typically manifests as a general wilting of the plant, even when the soil appears moist. Leaves may turn yellow and eventually drop. The stem near the soil line might become soft, discolored (dark brown or black), and mushy. In severe cases, the entire plant can collapse within a short period. Upon inspecting the roots, they will appear dark, slimy, and potentially have a foul odor, indicating they have been compromised by the fungal or bacterial pathogens. This disease is often insidious as the above-ground symptoms appear only after significant root damage has occurred.	Root rot is primarily caused by an over-saturation of the soil, leading to anaerobic conditions that favor the proliferation of various fungal pathogens (e.g., Phytophthora, Pythium, Rhizoctonia) and some bacterial species. These microorganisms attack the plant's root system, disrupting its ability to absorb water and nutrients, hence the wilting and yellowing. Poor drainage in the potting mix and overwatering are the most common contributing factors to the development of root rot in Xylocarpus.

Disease / Pest	Solution	Prevention	Treatment
Leaf Spot	To manage leaf spot, remove and destroy any infected leaves immediately to prevent further spread. Improve air circulation around the plant by spacing plants appropriately and pruning if necessary. Avoid overhead watering, as this can splash spores onto healthy leaves. Water the plant at the base. In cases of significant infection, a fungicide labeled for leaf spot diseases can be applied. Ensure complete coverage of all leaf surfaces. Repeat applications may be necessary throughout the growing season, especially during humid periods. Copper-based fungicides are often effective against a wide range of leaf spot pathogens.	Good sanitation is key to preventing leaf spot. Remove fallen leaves and debris from around the base of the plant. Ensure adequate air circulation by spacing plants and avoiding overcrowding. Water plants at the soil level rather than overhead to keep foliage dry. When purchasing new plants, inspect them for any signs of leaf spot before introducing them to your collection. Pruning to maintain an open structure can also improve air movement within the plant canopy.	Copper Oxychloride Fungicide
Mealybugs	For mealybug infestations, manual removal is an effective first step. Dip a cotton swab in rubbing alcohol (isopropyl alcohol) and dab directly onto the mealybugs to kill them. Alternatively, a strong spray of water can dislodge them. For more persistent infestations, insecticidal soap or neem oil sprays are highly effective. Ensure thorough coverage of all plant surfaces, including the undersides of leaves and crevices. Repeat applications every 7-10 days until the infestation is completely eradicated. In severe cases, systemic insecticides can be used as a last resort, but always follow label instructions and consider the plant's environment.	Regularly inspect your Xylocarpus, especially in new growth and leaf axils, for any signs of white, cottony masses. Isolate new plants for a few weeks before introducing them to your collection to prevent hitchhiking pests. Maintain good plant health by providing adequate light, water, and nutrients, as healthy plants are less susceptible to pest infestations. Avoid overcrowding plants, which can facilitate pest spread. If an infestation is detected early, prompt treatment is key to preventing widespread problems.	Neem Oil Spray
Spider Mites	Combat spider mites by increasing humidity around your Xylocarpus. Regularly misting the plant can help deter them. Physically washing the plant with a strong spray of water can dislodge many mites. For persistent infestations, insecticidal soaps or horticultural oils (like neem oil) are effective. Ensure thorough coverage, as mites often hide on the undersides of leaves. Repeat treatments every few days as needed because mite life cycles are short, and new mites can hatch. In severe cases, acaricides specifically designed for spider mites can be used. Good hygiene and prompt removal of affected leaves are crucial.	Maintain adequate humidity levels around your Xylocarpus, especially during dry winter months. Misting the plant regularly can help. Avoid dusty conditions by wiping down leaves with a damp cloth periodically. Isolate new plants to check for pests before introducing them to your existing collection. Inspect plants regularly, especially the undersides of leaves, for any signs of webbing or stippling. Promptly address any early signs of infestation to prevent them from becoming severe.	Horticultural Oil Spray
Powdery Mildew	For powdery mildew, ensure good air circulation around your Xylocarpus. Remove and destroy infected plant parts to limit spore production. Several homemade remedies can be effective, such as spraying the plant with a solution of baking soda (1 tablespoon baking soda, 2.5 tablespoons horticultural oil, and 1 gallon of water) or milk (diluted 1:10 with water). Commercially available fungicides, including those with sulfur or potassium bicarbonate, are also effective. Apply thoroughly to all affected areas, covering both the upper and lower surfaces of the leaves. Repeat treatments as needed, especially if conditions remain favorable for the fungus.	Provide adequate air circulation around your plants by spacing them appropriately and pruning if necessary. Avoid overwatering and ensure good drainage to prevent overly humid microclimates. Water in the morning so that foliage can dry thoroughly during the day. Where possible, choose powdery mildew-resistant varieties. Regularly inspect your plants for early signs of infection and act quickly to treat it. Reducing shade where the plant is located can also help.	Potassium Bicarbonate Fungicide
Root Rot	For root rot, the first and most crucial step is to improve drainage. Gently remove the plant from its pot and inspect the roots. Trim away any rotted, dark, and mushy roots using clean, sharp pruning shears. Repot the Xylocarpus in a well-draining potting mix, possibly amended with perlite or sand. Ensure the pot has drainage holes. If the rot is severe, a broad-spectrum fungicide labeled for root rot can be applied to the soil, following label instructions carefully. It's also essential to adjust watering habits, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Disinfect tools used to prevent spreading the disease.	The best defense against root rot is proper watering and drainage. Allow the top inch or two of the soil to dry out before watering again. Use a well-draining potting mix specifically formulated for tropical plants or succulents. Ensure the pot has adequate drainage holes and avoid letting the plant sit in a saucer full of water. Good air circulation around the plant can also help dry the soil more quickly. Regularly inspect the plant for any signs of stress or yellowing leaves, as these can be early indicators of issues with the root system.	Thiophanate-methyl fungicide

5 known issues for Xylocarpus

12.Xylocarpus — Conservation & Legal Notes

IUCN Conservation Status	LC
Habitat Threat Level	Low — Widely distributed and abundant
Collection Ethics	Sustainable collection permitted; prefer cultivated sources over wild harvesting
Sustainable Harvesting	Cultivated stock preferred; leaf harvesting from mature plants (3+ years) with partial cut technique preserving growth point
Wild Collection Advisory	Commercial cultivation widely established; wild collection unnecessary for most applications

13.Xylocarpus — Advantages of Growing

Use of new — Use of new medicines with no doubt helps treat different diseases, but it also poses a risk of side effects. Koenig is traditionally used to treat various diseases including diarrhea, cholera, dysentery, fever, malaria, and viral infections, among others. Increased demands for reducing these side effects of the current drugs are driving researchers and pharmacologist towards formulating natural plant-based drugs, thereby exploring different traditionally used medicinal plants/herbs [1 ]. _Xylocarpus granatum_ J.
Aesthetic appeal — Adds useful foliage, flowers, form, or texture.
Practical care — Responds well to steady light, drainage, and watering.
Collection value — Improves botanical diversity.
Educational use — Helps compare family, genus, species, and habit.
Container potential — Can often be managed in containers with drainage.
Seasonal interest — Shows changes in growth, flowering, or rest.
Maintenance clarity — Clear routines reduce care mistakes.
Editorial value — Supports a complete plant page.

14.Xylocarpus — Quality Control & Authentication

Shelf-life Notes

A typical shelf life of 2-3 years can be expected for properly stored Xylocarpus granatum raw material, subject to stability studies.

15.Xylocarpus — Frequently Asked Questions

16.Xylocarpus — References & Datasets

External Databases

Plants of the World Online (Kew)	Visit
World Flora Online	Visit
IUCN Red List	Visit
PubMed	Visit
Dr. Duke's Phytochemical Database (USDA)	Visit

Data sourced from Flora Medical Global research database. Last updated: check plant page header.

Reviewed by the Flora Medical Global Botanical Review Panel

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Who reviewed this: This page was checked by the Flora Medical Global Botanical Review Panel — an in-house editorial group of botany graduates, ethnobotany researchers, and horticulture practitioners who collectively maintain our 7,000+ plant encyclopedia. Meet the team.

Our 4-step verification process

1. Taxonomic verification
Scientific names and synonyms cross-checked against Kew POWO, World Flora Online, and The Plant List.
2. Phytochemical & medicinal cross-reference
Active compounds, traditional uses, and reported activities are cross-referenced with PubMed, USDA Dr. Duke's database, and peer-reviewed ethnobotanical literature.
3. Conservation & distribution check
Distribution, ecology, and conservation status confirmed against GBIF occurrence records and the IUCN Red List.
4. Editorial & safety review
Every entry passes an editorial pass for clarity, originality, and safety notices (toxicity, contraindications, dosage caveats) before publication.

Last reviewed: June 28, 2026

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Important medical disclaimer: This content is for educational and research purposes only. It is not medical advice and is not a substitute for consultation with a licensed healthcare provider. Do not use any herb to self-treat a medical condition without professional guidance.

Editorial Note: This page is for educational and research purposes only and is not medical advice.

Written by: Flora Medical Global Editorial Team

Reviewed by: Flora Medical Global Botanical Review Panel

Last Updated: June 28, 2026

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