Copperpod tree
Other names: Peltophorum pterocarpum, Copper pod, Yellow gulmohar, Yellow flamboyant, Rusty shield bearer, Yellow poinciana, Radha chura(Bengali)
Identification: It is an upright, semi - evergreen tree, growing up to 50' tall. It has dark green leathery leaflets, fragrant, yellow flowers and an an elongated seedpod containing one to four seeds. It forms a spreading crown of many branches consisting of feathery mimosa like leaves and abundance of bright yellow blooms. The tree is much cultivated as an ornamental and is often planted alternately with Gul Mohur. When the copper-red seedpods cover the tree in profusion it is a wonderful sight. The flowering season commences at the end of February and reaches its peak in the middle of April. The canary-yellow flowers, with strangely crinkled petals, clustered on upright stalks at the end of branches, presents a breath-taking view in summer.
Description: Copper pod tree is a native of tropical Asia and North Australia. During the flowering season, the flowers fall off the tree and are strewn on the ground, forming a radiant carpet of bright gold. This is the secret of fine yellow carpet spread on the roads near JLT and faculty houses.
Uses: The bark is used in various preparations as a tonic or an astringent to cure or relieve liver and intestinal disorders, sprains, bruises and swellings or as a lotion for eye infections, muscular pains and sores. The root, on the other hand, is used in sickness during pregnancy, to arrest heavy bleeding during child birth and also, in treating tuberculosis. The copper pods are planted in areas close to thermal power plants and cement factories as they are efficient in trapping dust and other suspended particulates. These trees being excellent shade providers are home to many birds and animals such as golden orioles, coppersmith barbers, spotted doves, mynas, squirrels. The pollen and nectar attract bees and insects in turn attract insectivorous birds. However, Copper pod pollen is a potent aeroallergen causing allergic disorders in sensitive patients. The timber is used for cabinet work. Where to find in XLRI: Around JLT and Faculty residence area ground, Bodhi tree
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Useful Links:
The yellow flame tree
http://www.sriaurobindosociety.org.in/flrarch/flrmay00.htm
http://www.floridata.com/ref/P/pelt_pte.cfm
http://www.isibang.ac.in/~bhat/peltho.html
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