Luvikka / Lovlolika (Layering) Fruit Plant

Indian Coffee Plum (Flacourtia jangomas), also known as Luvika or Lovlolika in Kerala, is a lowland and mountain rainforest tree belonging to the willow family (Salicaceae). It is widely cultivated across Southeast and East Asia and has naturalized in several regions beyond its original range. Its wild origin is uncertain but is believed to be tropical Asia, most likely India. In Southern India, especially Kerala, it holds significant culinary and traditional medicinal importance.

This species is a small deciduous shrub or tree that typically grows to a height of 6–10 meters. Young trees often bear simple or branched woody thorns, which tend to disappear as the tree matures. The bark is light brown to copper-red with a flaky texture, while the leaves are light green and narrow-ovate. The plant produces small, fragrant whitish-green flowers, followed by round fruits that turn pink to dark red when ripe, measuring about one inch in diameter.

The fruits are widely consumed across South Asia, both raw and in processed forms. They are known for their mild sour and tangy flavor and are commonly used in pickles, salt-dried preparations, curries, juices, jams, and marmalades. Coffee plum preserves are especially popular in Southern India and are exported internationally, primarily from Kerala. The plant is also valued for its timber and is considered a host for the Queensland fruit fly.

Fruiting occurs around 100–110 days after fruit set, with full ripening at about 120 days, when fruits become soft and develop a deep red to maroon or purple color. Harvesting is typically done in 2–3 pickings, with an average yield of 3–5 kg per plant.