Dovyalis hebecarpa, commonly known as the Ceylon gooseberry or ketembilla, is a tropical fruit-bearing shrub that is native to Sri Lanka. It belongs to the family Flacourtiaceae and is closely related to the star gooseberry (Dovyalis caffra).
The tree of Dovyalis hebecarpa typically reaches a height of about 2-3 meters, with its branches spreading out in an open, slightly drooping manner. The leaves are dark green, glossy, and have a lanceolate shape. The plant produces small, fragrant, yellow flowers, which are followed by round to slightly oval-shaped fruits.
The fruit of Dovyalis hebecarpa, the Ceylon gooseberry, is usually 2-3 centimeters in diameter and has a thin, smooth skin that ranges in color from green to yellowish-brown when mature. The flesh of the fruit is juicy, with a mildly acidic flavor. The flavor profile is often described as a combination of sweet and sour, somewhat similar to a gooseberry but with more tropical undertones.
The Ceylon gooseberries are highly nutritious and rich in vitamin C, dietary fiber, and antioxidants. They can be eaten fresh, used in preserves, jams, and sauces, or even made into beverages. In addition to its culinary uses, this fruit also has medicinal properties and is believed to have various health benefits.
Overall, Dovyalis hebecarpa, or Ceylon gooseberry, is a tropical shrub that produces small, flavorful fruits with a unique balance of sweetness and tartness.
