A nutrient packed fruit borne in a drought resistant tree - Indian plum or Chinese ber, Chinese date, Indian jujube is a tropical indigenous fruit which originated in the Indian subcontinent. The fruit is locally known as ilantha in Tamil and Malayalam and ber in Hindi.

   Scientifically known as Zizyphus mauritiana, the tree grows well in almost all climatic and soil conditions. The tree belongs to the family Rhamnaceae. The fruit looks like a miniature apple. Though small in size, the fruit is rich in vitamin C, calcium, iron, phosphorous and vitamin B. This evergreen shrub grows to around 10-15 mt. height and attains the shape of a small tree.

   The branches are drooping giving the appearance of a spreading crown. This fast growing tree has got only a medium lifespan. The taproot is well developed which gives the capacity to withstand drought conditions. The trunk is only 40 cm in diameter, with dark grey or dull black....