Baby Abraham
The endearing sight of a grove of special fruit trees seen in the tropical forests allures all to the farm of Thodupuzha native Malekkudiyil Baby Abraham. The fruit Baccourea Courtallensis commonly called ‘Moottil pazham’ grows in abundance on these trees planted by Abraham.
The edible part of the fruit is a jelly obtained by cracking the hard outer part. It will taste sweet along with a little sourness. It could be consumed raw and also by making pickles. The fruit has several health benefits like reducing cholesterol and blood pressure.
Over 250 trees of ‘Moottil pazham’ from 2 to 30 years of age adorn the farm of Abraham. It grows on the farm without disturbing other trees. He said that the first plant was bought from a friend, a tribal man. His brother Joy planted it thirty years ago. The saplings are grown by sowing the seeds in the fruit.
These trees with unisexual flowers can be cultivated in all climatic conditions of Kerala and bear fruits within three or four years. January and February are the flowering seasons and by June and July, the trees will bear fruits. Some other varieties of fruits will have yellow or pink colour.
The fruits became familiar in Kerala as the tribals sell it near the roadways to Sabarimala temple. The fruit will cost Rs 180 per kilogram and only Rs 100 for the varieties which are sour in taste.
‘Moottil pazham’ is the favourite of Malabar Giant Squirrels, monkeys and bears. For more details about the farming, contact: 8075910944, Baby Abraham
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