Falsa (Grewia asiatica) is a fruit-bearing shrub native to South Asia, cultivated primarily in India, Pakistan, and surrounding regions. The plant thrives in tropical and subtropical climates and is typically grown in well-drained soils with moderate watering. The small, round fruits of the falsa tree are green when unripe, turning dark purple or reddish when fully ripe, and are harvested during the summer.
Falsa is valued for its sweet and tangy flavor, and it is commonly consumed fresh, but it is also used to make cooling beverages, syrups, and jams. The fruit is particularly popular in Pakistan and northern India during the hot summer months, where it is believed to have cooling and thirst-quenching properties. In these regions, falsa juice is often prepared with sugar and salt to create a refreshing drink; see more at sharbat.
Culturally, falsa has long been associated with traditional summer remedies and is known for its health benefits, being rich in vitamin C, antioxidants, and minerals. The fruit is typically sold by street vendors and local markets.