Terminalia chebula

RHS Plant Profile
myrobalan
Trees

A medium to large species of deciduous tree native to South Asia reaching a height of around 300cm and trunk width of around 100cm with an umbrella-like habit. Leaves are alternate, ovate and dark green. Short panicles of dull white to yellow flowers appear in summer which have an unpleasant smell, followed by smooth, green oval fruits which turn yellow to orange-brown. The tree is used for both medicinal purposes and the fruit for making into preserves in some countries

Position

Full sun

Soil Types

Loam, Sand

Max Height

2.5-4 metres

Max Spread

1.5-2.5 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
10–20 years
Max Spread
1.5-2.5 metres
Max Height
2.5-4 metres

Growing Conditions

Loam Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained or Well–drained
pH
Acid or Alkaline or Neutral

Position

Full sun
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H1B

Colour & Scent

Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Combretaceae
Native to GB/Ireland
No
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Columnar upright
Genus
Name Status
Unresolved

How to Grow

Cultivation

Under glass, grow in peat-free, loam-based compost with the addition of sharp sand in full sun. Water moderately and apply a balanced liquid fertiliser during the growing season. Outside, grow in moderately fertile, sandy soil in full sun

Propagation

Propagate by seed or layering in spring. Seed germination and growth may be slow

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • Architectural
  • Low Maintenance
  • Conservatory and greenhouse

Pruning

See pruning group 1. Plant under glass need restrictive pruning

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

Generally disease-free