Phalsa (Grewia asiatica) | seeds, 10 pcs.

REQUIRES HEAT | CAN BE GROWN IN POTS

• Latin name: Grewia asiatica
  
• Danish names: Falsa, phalsa
  
• English names: Falsa, phalsa, sherbet berry, Indian sherbet berry
  

Grewia asiatica, commonly known as phalsa, falsa, or Indian sherbet berry, is a tropical and subtropical fruit shrub or small tree native to northern India and Southeast Asia. It is especially prized for its small, dark purple berries, which are refreshing, slightly tart, and full of antioxidants—a favorite in home gardens and markets across much of Asia.

The plant has an upright, slightly branching growth habit and typically reaches 2–4 meters in height under cultivation. The oval, slightly wrinkled leaves are green with a soft, grayish underside, and during spring and summer, the plant is covered in small, yellow, star-like flowers. The flowers are followed by round, reddish-purple to almost black berries about the size of redcurrants.

The fruit has a sweet-and-sour flavor and is eaten fresh or used for juice, jam, and especially the popular, cooling phalsa sharbat—a traditional summer drink in India and Pakistan.

Cultivation and requirements:
Grewia asiatica thrives best in warm, sunny conditions with well-drained soil and regular watering. It is relatively drought-tolerant once established but produces the best fruit with consistent moisture. In Denmark, it is suitable for cultivation in large pots in a greenhouse, conservatory, or on a warm, sunny terrace during the summer months. It should be overwintered frost-free at a minimum of 5–10 °C.

The plant grows quickly, tolerates pruning well, and often begins to bear fruit as early as its 2nd or 3rd year under good conditions.

Utility:
The fruits are rich in vitamin C, antioxidants, and iron, and have traditionally been used in Ayurvedic and local medicine to relieve digestive issues, fevers, and inflammatory conditions. In addition, the leaves have been used for wound care and as cooling compresses.

Fresh phalsa fruit is sought after in home kitchens and particularly valued in hot climates, where its tart flavor and cooling properties make it ideal for drinks and desserts.

Grewia asiatica is an exciting and rare fruit shrub for growers who want to combine exotic utility with lush growth and flowering. An excellent candidate for the edible container garden—offering taste, cultural history, and decorative value.