This tropical tree has a short trunk with rust-red flaky bark and spreading branches that form a dense rounded crown. The glossy dark green oblong leaves are heavily veined and the large white cup-shaped nodding flowers appear in spring. 

Hardiness zones 10 to 12 

Dillenia indica is naturally found from India to Java growing in humid valleys floors and extending to the Himalayan foothills.

It prefers humus rich moist soil that is tending acidic in a open sunny to protected position and is frost, wind and drought tender. 

The Elephant Apple is grown for its flowers and spreading habit. It is planted in parks or large gardens in tropical settings and is used for shade or foliage contrast. It is suitable for coastal or low mountain regions and establishes in 3 to 5 years. 
It is also grown for its editable fruit and is grown as a shrub in containers or grown in bright conservatories in cool climates. ID 2259

Dillenia (dill-e-NE-a) indica (in-DE-ka)      

Dilleniaceae (DIL-en-ee-AY-see-ee)