Bakul (Mimusops elengi), also called Maulsari or Spanish Cherry, is a slow-growing evergreen tree treasured for its small, star-shaped cream flowers whose sweet fragrance lingers even after they fall and dry. Its dense, glossy dark-green foliage forms a neat rounded canopy that gives excellent shade and stays attractive year-round. Native to India and South Asia, Bakul is a classic temple, garden and avenue tree, also valued in Ayurveda for its bark, flowers and fruit. The fragrant blooms are used in garlands and perfumery, making this hardy, long-lived tree both ornamental and culturally cherished.
Specifications
| Family |
Sapotaceae |
| Native region |
Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia |
| Mature height |
8-15 m |
| Mature spread |
8-12 m |
| Growth rate |
Slow |
| Foliage |
Evergreen, glossy dark green |
| Flower colour |
Creamy white |
| Flower season |
Mostly spring to summer |
| Climate zone |
Tropical and subtropical |
Care guide
| Sunlight |
Full sun to partial shade |
| Watering |
Moderate; water regularly when young, drought tolerant later |
| Soil / mix |
Well-drained loamy soil, adaptable |
| Temperature |
18-42C; heat tolerant, frost-sensitive |
| Humidity |
Tolerates a wide range |
| Fertilizer |
Compost or balanced NPK once or twice a year |
| Pruning |
Minimal; light shaping only |
| Repotting |
Young plants in large pots; best in ground |
| Propagation |
Seeds |
| Pests & problems |
Generally hardy and pest-resistant |
| Toxicity / safety |
Non-toxic; fruit edible, parts used in Ayurveda |
| Difficulty |
Easy |
Uses
A fragrant shade, avenue and temple tree; the scented flowers are used in garlands and perfumery, the fruit is edible, and bark, flowers and seeds are used in Ayurveda.
Growing tips
Well suited to Indian climates; plant in full sun to part shade with good drainage. It is slow-growing but very long-lived and low maintenance once established.