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Gulmohar plant is a type of tree that has very pretty orange-red flowers. People really like to plant it in gardens and parks in warm places around the world. Gulmohar tree is from Madagascar, which is an island country near the southeast coast of Africa.
Gulmohar is a deciduous tree, which means it loses its leaves during part of the year. It can grow to be 12-15 meters (about 40-50 feet) tall. The leaves of the Gulmohar have smaller leaves that are arranged in pairs along a central stem. This type of leaf is called bipinnately compound.
Gulmohar tree is liked not only for its lovely flowers but also because it gives shade and has useful purposes. The wood from the tree is strong and durable, so it can be used to make furniture and buildings. The leaves and pods can also be used as food for animals.
In addition to its pretty and useful purposes, the Gulmohar tree helps the environment. It makes the air cleaner by taking in carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen. The tree also provides a home and food for various birds and insects, which is important for keeping the ecosystem healthy.
Gulmohar Plant Overview
| Category | Details |
| Scientific Name | Delonix regia |
| Family | Fabaceae (Leguminosae) |
| Description | – Height and Spread: 9 to 12 meters tall, broad, umbrella-like canopy.
– Leaves: Bipinnate, feathery, 30 to 50 cm long. – Flowers: Large clusters of scarlet or orange-red flowers with one upright petal marked with yellow and white. – Pods: Long, flat, woody, up to 60 cm in length. |
| Uses | – Ornamental Planting: Popular in gardens, parks, and avenues for its vibrant flowers.
– Shade Tree: Provides shade along roadsides and in public spaces. – Soil Improvement: Nitrogen-fixing properties improve soil fertility. – Medicinal Uses: Leaves, bark, and flowers used in traditional medicine. – Cultural Significance: Symbol of spring and renewal, associated with festivals. |
Gulmohar Plant Botanical Name
The botanical name of the Gulmohar plant is Delonix regia. It belongs to the Fabaceae family, commonly known as the legume, pea, or bean family. This plant is native to Madagascar but is now grown in tropical and subtropical regions around the world due to its striking appearance and usefulness.
Description of the Gulmohar Plant
Gulmohar tree is a deciduous tree, meaning it sheds its leaves annually. It typically grows to a height of 9 to 12 meters (30 to 40 feet) with a wide, umbrella-like canopy. The leaves of the Gulmohar plant are bipinnate, giving them a delicate, feathery look. Each leaf is composed of multiple small leaflets, making the foliage appear lush and dense.
Gulmohar Plant Leaf
Gulmohar plant leaf is one of its distinguishing features. The bipinnate leaves, which can grow up to 50 cm in length, consist of several pairs of pinnae, each with numerous small, oblong leaflets. This unique structure not only adds to the tree’s ornamental value but also provides ample shade, making it a popular choice for avenues and parks.
Gulmohar Plant Uses
The uses of the Gulmohar plant are varied and significant:
- Ornamental Planting: The Gulmohar is widely planted in gardens, parks, and along roadsides for its vibrant flowers that create a visually stunning landscape.
- Shade Tree: Its broad canopy offers excellent shade, making it ideal for planting in public spaces to provide relief from the sun.
- Soil Improvement: As a member of the legume family, the Gulmohar has nitrogen-fixing properties. This helps improve soil fertility, making it beneficial for agricultural practices.
- Medicinal Uses: Various parts of the Gulmohar plant, including its leaves, bark, and flowers, are used in traditional medicine to treat ailments such as inflammation and digestive issues.
- Wood and Fodder: The wood of the Gulmohar is durable and is often used in furniture making and construction. Additionally, the leaves and pods can serve as fodder for livestock.
Gulmohar Plant Benefits
The benefits of the Gulmohar plant extend beyond its beauty and ornamental value:
- Environmental Benefits: The tree helps in reducing soil erosion due to its extensive root system. It also contributes to the nitrogen content of the soil, enhancing its fertility.
- Aesthetic Appeal: The bright and flamboyant flowers of the Gulmohar add significant aesthetic value to any landscape, making it a favorite among landscape designers.
- Cultural Significance: In many cultures, the Gulmohar is a symbol of spring and renewal. It is often associated with festivals and celebrations, adding a touch of cultural richness to its practical uses.
- Air Quality Improvement: Like many trees, the Gulmohar helps improve air quality by absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen. This can contribute to a healthier urban environment.
- Low Maintenance: The Gulmohar plant is relatively low maintenance once established. It is drought-tolerant and can thrive in various soil types, making it suitable for different climates.
Conclusion
Gulmohar plant, with its botanical name Delonix regia, is much more than just a pretty tree. Its uses and benefits range from providing shade and improving soil fertility to offering medicinal properties and enhancing cultural celebrations. Whether admired for its vivid flowers or valued for its practical benefits, the Gulmohar remains a beloved tree in many parts of the world.
Gulmohar Plant FAQs
Can we plant Gulmohar trees at home?
Yes, you can plant Gulmohar trees at home if you have sufficient space. Gulmohar trees require ample sunlight and space to grow due to their broad canopy. They are best suited for large gardens or open areas.
What is the Indian name for Gulmohar flower?
In India, the Gulmohar flower is commonly known as Krishna Chura in Bengali, Mayaram in Gujarati, and Gulmohar in Hindi. Different regions may have specific names for this vibrant flower.
What is the Gulmohar tree famous for?
The Gulmohar tree is famous for its stunning display of scarlet or orange-red flowers. It is widely admired for its vibrant and flamboyant blooms that cover the entire tree, creating a spectacular visual display. It is also known for its broad, umbrella-like canopy.
What is Gulmohar called in English?
In English, the Gulmohar tree is commonly known as the Flame Tree or Royal Poinciana.
Is Gulmohar tree fast growing?
Yes, the Gulmohar tree is considered a fast-growing species. It can reach maturity relatively quickly compared to other trees, making it a popular choice for those looking to establish greenery in a shorter period.
