Emblica officinalis, Phyllanthus emblica Family: Euphorbiaceae Indian Gooseberry, Emblic Myrobalan, Amla, Amalaki, Amloki Origin: Northern and South Western India small tree 10-20 ftfull sunregular waterethnomedicalediblesubtropical, cold hardy at least to 30s F for a short timeincuded in CD catalog Small to medium in size tree. The leaves are lacy, giving the tree a delicate look. Amla fruit paste is a major ingredient of Chavyanprash, a popular Ayurvedic tonic. Amla is known as amritphala in Sanskrit, which literally means the fruit of heaven or nectar fruit. It is so called because it is rich in many desirable properties. It was described in a 7th century Ayurvedic medical text. According to several scholars, the sage Chyawan is reputed to have restored his vitality with this fruit. The fruit is Aperient, Carminative, Diuretic, Aphrodasiac, Laxative, Astringent and Refrigerant; is useful in anaemia, jaundice, dyspepcia, haemorrhage disorders, diabetes, asthama and bronchitis. It cures insomnia and is healthy for hair. It is the richest known source of vitamin C. The fruit tastes bitter, but if you drink water after eating it, the water tastes sweet.