Dillenia indica, commonly called elephant apple, is native to South and Southeast Asia. It grows as a large evergreen tree reaching up to 50 feet in height in tropical forests. The species is valued both for its striking flowers and for its large, segmented fruits which are used in traditional cuisines and folk medicine. The flowers measure up to 8 inches across, with thick white petals and an unusual central cluster of numerous stamens. These blossoms open during the evening or early morning and are short-lived, but they are visually striking due to their size and structure. The fruit of Dillenia indica is sour and fibrous, commonly used in curries, jams, and chutneys in India and neighboring regions. In Ayurvedic and other traditional medicinal systems, the fruit has been employed for digestive ailments and as an anti-inflammatory agent. Photographed in Florida.