Description
Indian Olibanum is a deciduous medium sized tree.
Frankincense, an oily gum resin from the tree Boswellia sacra and related species, is named in the Bible as one the three gifts given to the baby Jesus by the Three Wise Men. It has been used for thousands of years in many different cultures.
Plant Specifications
*above specification are indicative only. actual dimensions may vary by +-10%
Common Name |
Indian Olibanum, Indian frankincense,Boswellia carteri, Boswellia undulato crenata |
Maximum Reachable Height |
275-900 m |
Bloom Time |
January. |
Difficulty Level |
easy to grow |
Planting and care
The trees start producing resin when they are about eight to 10 years old.6 Tapping is done two to three times a year with the final taps producing the best tears due to their higher aromatic terpene, sesquiterpene and diterpene content.
Indian Olibanum care
Indian Olibanum is a deciduous tree endemic to India and has been recorded on dry hills and slopes, on gravelly soils between an altitude range of 275-900 m.
It is a medium sized tree, 3-5 m tall, with ash coloured papery bark.
Sunlight |
Full Sun to Partial Shade |
Watering |
medium |
Soil |
well-drained soil |
Fertilizer |
Apply any Organic Fertilizer. |
Indian Olibanum special feature
Olibanum is characterised by a balsamic-spicy, slightly lemon, fragrance of incense, with a conifer-like undertone. It is used in the perfume, cosmetic and pharmaceutical industries.
Indian Olibanum uses
Ornamental Use:
- The plant is used for ornamental purpose
Medicinal Use:
- Extracts of Indian Olibanum have been clinically studied for osteoarthritis and joint function, particularly for osteoarthritis of the knee
- A Boswellia extract marketed under the name Wokvel has undergone human efficacy, comparative, pharmacokinetic studies
- Indian Olibanum is used in the manufacture of the supposed anti-wrinkle agent Boswelox , which has been criticised as being ineffective