Ashoka Tree
Other name: Polyalthia longifolia, false Ashoka, Asopalav (Gujarati), green champa, Indian mast tree, Indian fir tree. This is commonly known as Ashoka tree, but is not the true Ashoka tree.
Identification: It is a lofty evergreen tree, native to India. It exhibits symmetrical pyramidal growth with willowy weeping pendulous branches and long narrow lanceolate leaves with undulate margins. The tree is known to grow over 30 ft in height. Fresh leaves are a coppery brown color and are soft and delicate to touch, as the leaves grow older the color becomes a light green and finally a dark green. In spring the tree is covered with delicate star-like pale green flowers. The flowers are not conspicuous due to their color. Fruit are borne in clusters of 10-20. Initially green but turning purple or black when ripe
Description: It is commonly planted due to its effectiveness in alleviating noise pollution. It is introduced in gardens in many tropical countries around the world. In XLRI these trees are home to hundreds of sparrows. Bulbuls can be frequently sighted on these trees.
Uses: The leaves are good and for ornamental decoration and used in festivals. The tree is a main attraction in gardens throughout India. The tree can be cut into various shapes and maintained in required sizes. Methanolic extracts of Polyalthia longifolia have yielded 20 known and two new organic compounds, some of which show cytotoxic properties.
Where to find in XLRI: JLT
Count:
Useful Links:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Polyalthia_longifolia
http://bio.fiu.edu/trees/sp_pages/Polyalthia_longifolia.html
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