Intro
For those venturing into our resort at Kabini, a world of wonder awaits. From a relatively sparse property, we have managed to transform it into a veritable garden of Eden with over 250 species of native fruits, trees and other flora that sustain both ourselves and the small lives that we share this land with. And everything you see grown at Red Earth has a function; from the organic garden that we get our produce from to the various herbs and special plants that go into our ayurvedic treatments and solutions to the trees that provide much needed respite during the hotter months of the year. Let us explore some of the more prominent species of flora around our resort in Kabini!
Passionfruit
One of the most popular fruits at our resort in Kabini, the fruit of the passiflora tree always brings up sweet and tangy memories in everyone. Originally from South America, it made its way here through trade. Passionfruit provides a source of food for both humans and other forms of life at Red Earth Resort Kabini! The fruit is used in our many juices and desserts available. If you happen to be visiting during the season, do ask for our special passionfruit cocktail. Besides containing very few calories, passionfruits are an excellent source of vitamin C, Vitamin A and iron, potassium and a host of other minerals. And as its name suggests, passionfruit is said to increase libido as well!
Ficus
Ficus is perhaps one of the biggest families of trees in the world with over 850 species. Members of the ficus family include banyan and peepal trees, which are in abundance around our resort in Kabini! These trees are one of the biggest sources of sustenance for birds, especially Hornbills. With luck, you can spot some Indian Grey Hornbills feasting on the juicy red fruits. We also use some of the fruit from our fig trees in preparations at our resort in Kabini.
Mexican Mint
If you feel this is a unique and exotic plant, it is. But there are pretty high chances those residing in Bangalore will have eaten this at some point of time! Known as Ajwain up north and Indian Borage/Mexican Mint elsewhere, these leaves have a strong unforgettable flavor that goes beautifully in a “saaru” that is sometimes prepared here. Besides this, it also has a wide range of ayurvedic properties. Cough/cold, respiratory issues and stomach related issues can all be mitigated with a few doddapatre leaves.
Ashvattha tree
Known as the Sacred Fig in English, Ashvattha is a particularly significant tree. It is said to have been the same tree under which the Buddha sought enlightenment. The same tree is the state tree of Odisha. Here too, the fruits of the sacred fig tree provide a vast number of uses: They are known to aid recovery from asthma, diabetes, epilepsy, gastric issues, inflammatory issues and many more. Interestingly enough, the seeds of the figs are also used in making prayer beads, completing this circle of spirituality!
Mother tree
Our own mother tree at our resort in Kabini, one of the most iconic parts of the resort is a 300 year old mango tree that has sustained us for generations. It continues to be a source of shelter and nourishment for multitudes of beings and we are forever grateful for its presence here.
Egg fruit
Known as a canistel, the egg fruit is a member of the Pouteria genus. It’s also known as the custard fruit for its color. And funnily enough, it tastes exactly like an egg! We mean in texture, not flavor. It still retains a sweet flavor while having the egg like texture. This fruit is not very far off from our sapota and other similar fruits! Do check with the staff at our resort in Kabini as to its availability.
Rambutan
A fruit similar to the lychee family, Rambutan has a unique texture and flavor, not to mention the almost furry appearance. The Rambutan fruits are used in juices, desserts and other culinary endeavors.
Bamboo
On the periphery of our resort in Kabini, you’ll find thickets of bamboos growing in abundance. Bamboo is an enigmatic plant; many of us know of its culinary features (using the young shoots in cooking) along with their growth which is still a mystery to many researchers. These bamboo groves are also home to a great number of fauna; Paradise flycatchers and Fantail flycatchers dart between the groves while you may find a Bamboo Pit Viper coiled up high among the branches!
Lemongrass
Lemongrass is no stranger to many of us; its many uses as a scent and essential oil are reason enough to have it here. There is also another reason we use it here; it keeps away pesky mosquitoes from the property! Lemongrass is used in many of our therapeutic substances during the spa and ayurveda courses at Red Earth resort Kabini.
