Blood Fruit Live Plant (Haematocarpus validus)

Blood Fruit (Haematocarpus validus): A Rare Treasure with Nutritional Richness and Natural Beauty

In the lush wilderness of tropical Asia grows a little-known, yet strikingly vibrant fruit — the Blood Fruit, botanically known as Haematocarpus validus. With its deep red, almost crimson flesh, this exotic climber isn't just visually arresting; it carries a rich blend of tradition, nutrition, and sustainability that makes it truly special.

Common & Regional Names

Widely recognized across South and Southeast Asia, this fruit is locally called:

• Khoon Phal, Raktaphal, Ranguichi, Rosco, Sohsnam, Thoyphal Te.pattang, Theichhung-sen, Roktogula, and Lalgula.
  These names reflect the diverse cultures that have cherished it for generations, particularly in regions like the Andaman & Nicobar Islands, Mizoram, Meghalaya, Tripura, Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Singapore, and Thailand.

Plant Characteristics & Growing Conditions

Blood Fruit is an evergreen, perennial, woody climber known for its exceptional adaptability. It thrives under extreme environmental conditions, including acidic soils and semi-arid climates, making it an ideal candidate for sustainable home gardening in tropical and subtropical regions.

• Growth Habit: Creeping vine with strong wood structure

• Fruiting Time: Typically starts bearing fruit in 3 to 4 years

• Maintenance: Moderate, with basic care and support structure for climbing

• Soil Type: Performs well even in acidic or nutrient-depleted soils

Its resilience adds value for gardeners who seek hardy plants with minimal fuss yet rich returns.

Fruit Taste & Culinary Use

Once ripe, the fruit boasts a sweet-acidic flavour, with a pleasantly balanced taste and an exotic fragrance. The intense blood-red hue of the pulp is due to its high anthocyanin content, making it a natural choice for:

• Natural food colouring for desserts, syrups, jellies, and soft drinks

• Traditional sweets and herbal jams

• Decorative toppings for cakes and smoothies

Not only does it enhance the taste, but it also adds nutritional value without the risks associated with synthetic food dyes.

Traditional Uses & Cultural Significance

In several tribal and indigenous communities, the Blood Fruit has long been valued not only for its vibrant pulp but for its healing properties and colouring potential. Used as a natural dye, it holds a place in ceremonial food preparations and is sometimes incorporated in folk medicine practices for its presumed antioxidant and blood-purifying properties.

Its deep red colour symbolically represents vitality, strength, and longevity — ideals rooted in the cultural beliefs of many regions where the plant grows wild.

Health Benefits & Nutritional Value

Blood Fruit is more than just a culinary wonder — it’s a nutrient powerhouse, loaded with:

• Anthocyanins: Potent antioxidants known to reduce inflammation and fight free radicals

• Vitamin C: Supports immune health and improves skin texture

• Iron and trace minerals: Beneficial for blood production and cellular function

• Plant pigments: Naturally support cardiovascular health and vision

Regular intake in moderation may help reduce oxidative stress and improve overall well-being, particularly when used as a natural food additive.

Why Grow Blood Fruit from Veliyath Gardens?

At Veliyath Gardens, we take pride in offering authentic, well-nurtured Blood Fruit live plants — perfect for home gardens and exotic fruit collectors. Every plant is grown with care, ensuring:

• Verified species (Haematocarpus validus)

• Healthy root systems and well-managed propagation

• Support for first-time growers with guidance

This is a rare opportunity to own and grow a visually striking, nutrient-rich fruit plant that thrives with moderate care.

Conclusion: A Gift of Nature, A Step Toward Better Living

Blood Fruit isn't just an exotic addition to your garden — it's a symbol of health, resilience, and natural colour. With its sweet-acidic flavour, striking appearance, and medicinal potential, this underappreciated climber deserves a space in every garden that values unique biodiversity.

Whether you're a health-conscious consumer, a culinary enthusiast, or a plant lover seeking the rare and remarkable — this fruit plant ticks all the boxes.

Now available at Veliyath Gardens.
Add this vibrant vine to your garden and experience nature’s crimson gift — where colour meets health and culture meets sustainability.