Native & adapted

Amla

Phyllanthus emblica

Also known as Indian gooseberry · Emblic · Amalaki · Nellikai

A graceful tree with feathery leaves and sour green fruit prized in Indian cooking and Ayurvedic medicine. Handles full Phoenix sun well once established.

EdibleFruitingHeat tolerantDeciduous

Landscape layersLower canopy

Mature size15–25 ft tall and 15–20 ft wide

Climate fitUrban core · USDA 9b–10a · Valley suburbs · USDA 9a–9b

Plant spacing15 ft from other trees

FrostYoung trees damaged in the low 30s°F; mature trees survive brief dips to about 28°F.

Special categoriesEDIBLE

Hardiness guidanceUSDA 10–11; young trees need protection below the high 30s°F, mature trees take brief dips to about 28°F

Winter chillNone

Typical harvestLate fall through winter.

Before you plant

These conditions determine whether it will thrive.

Soil chemistry

Tolerates poor, alkaline and slightly salty soil.

Required microclimatePlacement is part of the growing system.

Sunny spot with frost protection while young; container culture works for the first years.

Right plant, right place

Will Amla grow at your Arizona property?

Drops leaves briefly in the cool season. Start in a pot and plant out once it is a few feet tall.

Best regional fit: Urban core · USDA 9b–10a, Valley suburbs · USDA 9a–9b.

Light

Sun exposure

Full sun.

Water

Irrigation

Moderate. Deep water weekly in summer; drought tolerant once established.

Fruit set

Pollination

Fruit set improves with a second variety nearby.

Harvest

How to use it

Very sour and astringent. Pickled, candied, juiced or cooked into chutney and preserves.

Planting & stewardship

How to help Amla thrive

1
Protect young trees whenever nights fall into the 30s°F.
2
Water deeply and let the soil dry slightly between waterings.
3
Prune lightly to shape after harvest.
4
Plant two varieties for better fruit set.

Read the horticultural reference ↗