Family: Ebenaceae (Ebony family)
Synonyms: Diospyros calycina, Diospyros umlovok, Diospyros mediterranea
Common Name: Date Plum, Caucasian persimmon, Lilac persimmon.
Local Name: Amlok (एमलोक)

Amlok is a  medium-sized deciduous tree  commonly found in mixed mountain forests up to altitudes of 2,500 meters in Western Himalayas.  It can reach heights of 15 to 30 meters. Its straight trunk is covered in smooth, dark-grayish bark, which becomes fissured with age. The plant thrives in temperate climates and is native to parts of Asia, including the Himalayas, Central Asia, and China. 

Amlok grow best in deep, well-drained loamy soil under full sun or light shade. It can adapt to a variety of environmental conditions, making it resilient and versatile. For optimal fruit production, the tree should be planted in a warm, sunny, and sheltered location. It is intolerant of very acidic, waterlogged, or poorly drained soils. While dormant trees are highly cold-hardy, the young spring growth is frost-sensitive, especially in early morning sunlight. Therefore, a site protected from frost and harsh early sun is ideal. The species is dioecious, but female trees can produce seedless fruits without a male pollinator. However, unfertilized fruits tend to be more astringent than fertilized ones. Historically, Amlok has been associated with mythology and cultural traditions. In ancient Greek texts, the fruit was referred to as the “fruit of the gods” for its exceptional sweetness¹. Today, it remains a symbol of abundance and vitality in many cultures.

For local Amlok  is of high  value due to its robust root system, which is an ideal rootstock for cultivating Japani Phal (Diospyros kaki, also known as Japanese Persimmon). It can be propagated through seeds, grafting, cuttings, or layering. For seed propagation, collect mature fruits, clean the seeds, and stratify them in cold conditions for 1–2 months before sowing in a well-draining mix. Grafting is commonly done using Amlok or Diospyros kaki as rootstock, typically through whip or cleft grafting in late winter or early spring. Hardwood or softwood cuttings treated with rooting hormone can also be used, with rooting occurring in 6–8 weeks. Alternatively, air or mound layering can be employed to encourage root growth on selected branches. These methods ensure successful propagation for cultivation.

Amlok is valued for its sweet, astringent fruits that are consumed in various ways. The ripe fruits can be eaten fresh, with their flavour ranging from mildly sweet to astringent, depending on the level of ripeness. When fully ripe, the fruits turn yellow to dark purple and are soft, making them ideal for eating raw. They can also be dried, which concentrates their sweetness, and are used in making dried fruit snacks or added to baked goods like cakes and cookies.

In some regions, the fruit is used to make jams, jellies, and preserves due to its rich flavor. Additionally, the fruits can be fermented to produce beverages such as wine or vinegar. The pulp is sometimes used in traditional desserts or as a natural sweetener in various dishes. Due to its high antioxidant content, the fruit is also valued for its potential health benefits, including improving digestion and boosting immunity ^2,3.

Amlok  is harvested from wild habitat as source of food, medicine and material. It is grown on private land as rootstock for commercial valuable Japanese Persimmon. The tree’s ability to stabilize soil makes it a valuable species in erosion-prone areas. Additionally, it provides food for wildlife, including birds and small mammals, which feed on its fruits. Its glossy foliage and colourful berries enhance its ornamental appeal, making it a popular choice in landscaping and gardens.

Amlok Plant:

It is a deciduous tree that can  grows up to 15–30 meters tall. It has a rounded or pyramidal crown with spreading branches.

The trunk is straight, with a dark greyish-black bark that becomes fissured and scaly as the tree matures.

Leaves simple, entire, alternate, and petiolate. Broadly ovate to elliptical 5–15 cm long and 3–6 cm wide. Upper surface dark green, glossy. Lower surface paler green and slightly hairy.

Flowers small, about 1–2 cm in diameter solitary or in clusters, male and female flowers are borne on separate trees; yellowish-green.

Berries are pale yellow, becoming bluish black with a glaucous bloom, nearly spherical to ellipsoid, 1-2 cm in diameter.

Seeds are brown, compressed, about 10 x 6 mm in diameter.

The fruits are harvested as soon as they turn orange-purple, from mid-November to December end. As seeds are natural way of propagation so fruits need to be sustainably harvested either by habitat rotation or keeping some fruits on parent  plant. 

Edible uses:

The fruit of  Amlok commonly known as date-plum, is prized for its sweet flavor and versatile culinary applications. Consumed fresh, it provides a natural source of energy due to its high content of natural sugars. When dried, the fruit resembles dates in texture and taste, making it a popular snack or ingredient in desserts. Traditionally, the dried fruit is ground into flour or used to prepare syrups and jams, which are valued for their rich taste and nutritional benefits. In some cultures, Amlok fruit is added to porridges or stews for natural sweetness, while the dried fruit is steeped to create a flavourful tea. Leaves are also taken as herbal tea due to rich medicinal and immunity boosting properties. Its pleasant aroma and antioxidant properties make it an ideal addition to baked goods, smoothies, and preserves, offering both culinary delight and health benefits.

Amlok Jam:

Ingredients:

Amlok ripe fruits, 500 g; sugar, 300 g; lemon juice, 1 tbsp;  water, 1 cup. 

Method:

Wash and deseed the fruits. In a pot, combine the fruits, water, and sugar. Simmer on low heat until the fruits soften. Mash the fruits and continue cooking until the mixture thickens. Add lemon juice and stir well. Cool and store in sterilized jars.

Dried Amlok Snacks

Ingredients:

Fresh  Amlok fruits; A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg (optional)

Method:

Wash the fruits and slice them in half. Remove the seeds. Spread the slices on a drying tray or in a food dehydrator. Sprinkle with cinnamon or nutmeg if desired. Dry at low heat (50°C) for 8–10 hours or until fully dehydrated. Store in an airtight container.

Amlok  Syrup:

Ingredients:

Amlok ripe fruits, 1 kg; water, 500 ml ; sugar, 200 g. 

Method:

Cook the fruits with water until soft, then mash and strain to extract juice. Add sugar to the juice and simmer until it reaches a syrupy consistency. Store in sterilized bottles and use as a topping for desserts or pancakes.

Traditional Porridge:

Ingredients:

Dried  Amlok fruits, 1 cup; millet or rice, ½ cup; milk or water, 4 cups; Honey or jaggery for sweetness

Method:

Soak the dried fruits overnight and deseed them. In a pot, cook millet or rice in milk or water until soft. Add the soaked fruits and simmer for 10 minutes. Sweeten with honey or jaggery before serving.

Herbal tea from Amlok leaf. 

Ingredients:

Dried Amlok  leaves, 1 tablespoon (or 4–5 fresh leaves); water, 2 cups; honey or jaggery, 1 teaspoon (optional); A slice of lemon (optional)

Method:

If using fresh leaves, wash them thoroughly. If using dried leaves, ensure they are clean and free of debris. In a pot, bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Add the leaves to the boiling water. Reduce the heat to low and let the leaves simmer for 5–7 minutes. Remove the pot from heat and strain the tea into a cup. Stir in honey or jaggery for sweetness and add a slice of lemon for a refreshing twist, if desired. Enjoy your Amlok  leaf tea warm as a soothing herbal remedy.

Food Value:

100 g of Amlok,  fruit contains approximately 65–75 kcal; dietary fibre, 3–5 g;  Vitamin C, 20–30 mg; Vitamin A, 150–200 IU, potassium,150–250 mg;  calcium, 20–25 mg; and magnesium, 10–15 mg. Antioxidant compounds like flavonoids, tannins, and phenolic acids provide anti-inflammatory and anti-aging benefits, while carotenoids enhance its antioxidant properties. Studies also highlight its bioactive compounds, including polyphenols, which contribute to its therapeutic potential ^2,3.

Seek professional advice before using this plant medicinally. 

Medicinal uses:

The fruit of Amlok has significant medicinal value, rooted in both traditional and scientific perspectives. It is widely recognized for its laxative properties and renowned for its use as an anticancer, antidiabetic, and antipyretic agent ^4,5.  Attributed to its high dietary fiber content, which helps regulate digestion and relieve constipation ². The fruit is rich in bioactive compounds, including flavonoids, tannins, and polyphenols, which exhibit strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, making it beneficial in reducing oxidative stress and preventing chronic diseases³. Leaf extract of this plant in the form of herbal tea has been extensively utilized as an antitumor, antidiabetic, sedative, astringent, antipyretic, and laxative agent ^4,5. Traditional uses include its application as a natural remedy for colds and sore throats, where decoctions of the fruit are consumed to soothe symptoms and boost immunity. Studies have also highlighted its potential in managing diabetes and metabolic disorders due to the bioactive compounds’ role in modulating blood sugar levels ⁶. The presence of carotenoids in the fruit supports eye health, while potassium and magnesium contribute to maintaining cardiovascular health. Additionally, tannins in unripe fruits are traditionally used for their astringent properties in treating diarrhea and other gastrointestinal issues.

The Role of  Amlok as an Ideal Rootstock for Japanese Persimmon Cultivation:

Amlok plays a vital role as a rootstock for cultivating Japani Phal (Diospyros kaki, also known as Japanese Persimmon). Its importance lies in its compatibility with Diospyros kaki, adaptability to diverse soil types, and its ability to enhance the growth and productivity of the grafted tree. The robust root system of Amlok provides excellent support and ensures efficient nutrient and water uptake, making it ideal for establishing Diospyros kaki trees in varied climatic conditions. Additionally, Amlok imparts cold-hardiness to the grafted plant, allowing Japani Phal to thrive in regions with lower winter temperatures. Its resistance to certain soil-borne pests and diseases further enhances the survival rate and longevity of the grafted tree. The deep taproot system of Amlok ensures stability and drought tolerance, enabling the Japani Phal tree to perform well in less-than-ideal growing conditions. This rootstock’s role in improving adaptability and resilience makes it indispensable for commercial cultivation of Diospyros kaki in temperate regions.

Ecological and Ornamental Roles:

The tree’s ability to stabilize soil makes it a valuable species in erosion-prone areas. Additionally, it provides food for wildlife, including birds and small mammals, which feed on its fruits. Its glossy foliage and colorful berries enhance its ornamental appeal, making it a popular choice in landscaping and gardens.

Timber and Crafts:

The dense and durable wood of Amlok is used in making furniture, small crafts, and carvings. While not as commercially significant as other timber species, its wood is appreciated in regions where the tree is native.

References:

1. Baumann, H. (1993). Greek wild flowers and plant lore in ancient Greece. London: Herbert Press.
2. Korkmaz, A., Kocaoğlu, F., & Özaydin, A. (2018). Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Activities of Diospyros lotus. Journal of Food Science and Technology.
3. Kim, S. H., et al. (2016). Phenolic Profiles and Antioxidant Activities of Diospyros Species. Food Research International.
4. Moghaddam AH, Nabavi SM, Nabavi SF, Bigdellou R, Mohammadzadeh S and Ebrahimzadeh MA: Antioxidant, antihemolytic and nephroprotective activity of aqueous extract of Diospyros lotus seeds. Acta Pol Pharm. 69:687–692. 2012. PubMed/NCBI
5. Rauf A, Abu-Izneid T, Alhumaydhi FA, Muhammad N, Aljohani ASM, Naz S, Bawazeer S,Wadood A and Mubarak MS: In vivo analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and sedative activity anda molecular docking study of dinaphthodiospyrol G isolated from Diospyros lotus. BMC Complement Med Ther. 20(237)2020. PubMed/NCBI   
6. Tokusoglu, Ö., & Hall III, C. A. (2011). Fruit and Cereal Bioactives: Chemistry, Sources, and Applications. CRC Press.