Chief EditorDr. Reena Barman Kalita

(HOD)

EditorsDr. Ranjit Das

Dr. Ranjan Kumar BoraMr. Amit Kumar Pradhan

Ms. Himadri SaikiaMs. Niti Das

Miss Nibedita Bhuyan

FLORA OFPRAGJYOTISH COLLEGE

(KNOW THE PLANTS OF YOUR COLLEGE)

A Hanbook on theFlora of Pragjyotish College Campus

Editorial Board

ContributorsBotany 5th Semester Students

(Batch 2020)

OFFICE OF THE PRINCIPAL

PRAGJYOTISH COLLEGEGuwahati –781 009

E-mail : pragcollege@yahoo.co.in Website: www.pragjyotishcollege.ac.inFebruary 2, 2021

MESSAGE FROM PRINCIPAL

I am very glad to know that the Department of Botany, PragjyotishCollege is publishing a handbook on the flora of college campus entitled“FLORA OF PRAGJYOTISH COLLEGE (KNOW THE PLANTSOF YOUR COLLEGE)” with the objective of understanding thesignificance of plant resources and creating awareness among the newgeneration about its economic and medicinal values. My heartycongratulations to all the members of the Department of Botany for takingsuch an initiative to publish a very important handbook about the flora ofcollege campus. I strongly believe that this great work by the BotanyDepartment will be an important resource for the whole student communityand the society wherein the plant resources has been the only source to themaintain a sustainable living environment.

My sincere greetings to the faculties and students of Botanydepartment for this great work. Wish that this handbook will be a majorresource and a tool to understand the plant resource better.

Dr. Manoj Kr. MahantaPrincipal,

Pragjyotish CollegeGuwahati

PREFACE

Plants fulfill the primary necessities of human beings i.e.food, clothing and shelter. From times immemorial, the locallyavailable plant resources have been used for other purposes –such as fuel, fodder, medicine,etc. The medicinal plants playedan important role from primitive to highly civilized men andwomen in the folk-lores, superstitions, traditions and in variousrituals. In the present context, people are more attracted toherbal medicines and other products (for cosmetics), realisingthe side effects of chemical and synthetic medicines. Keepingthis concept in mind and also to introduce the plant resourcesof our college campus to the students, other department teachersand visitors, the Department of Botany, Pragjyotish Collegeinitiated the identification and naming of the College campusplants and their usage as medicine and other economic purposes.

The faculty members of the department led by the HODstarted the identification of the plant resources (shrubs andtrees) planted in the college campus by our predecessors in2019. With the cooperation of the 5th semester majorstudents (2020) and with the guidance of the faculty memberswe have prepared this booklet to create awareness aboutthe plants, their importance and opportunities lying in the plantresources around us.

Dr. Reena Barman KalitaHead of the DepartmentDepartment of Botany

Pragjyotish College, Guwahati-09

CONTRIBUTORS

Students of Botany 5th Semester (Major), Batch 2020

GU Code Roll No. Name

US 181032 7 Akshay Kumar BaruaUS 181032 17 Angkita BhattacharyaUS 181032 18 Ankita MiliUS 181032 61 Gautam KherkataryUS 181032 69 Hriday Jyoti BorahUS 181032 84 Jintujit DasUS 181032 90 Kajal Kumari MahthaUS 181032 94 Kankana ParasharUS 181032 99 Kaushik KumarUS 181032 114 Manitara BegumUS 181032 126 Munu NarzaryUS 181032 130 Nabojit Roy MandalUS 181032 153 Prasurya BorahUS 181032 156 Priya JaiswalUS 181032 159 Puja Ram DasUS 181032 162 Rahul AminUS 181032 179 Samaina BoroUS 181032 183 Santanu DekaUS 181032 190 Shikha VermaUS 181032 202 Sneha BanerjeeUS 181032 209 Sushma DaimaryUS 181032 211 Susmita PaulUS 181032 219 Ujjaldeep Kakati

CONTENTS

Page No. Australian Acacia .......................................................... 1 Arrowhead Plant ........................................................... 2 Arjuna Tree ................................................................... 3 Boat-lily ........................................................................ 4 Beleric Myrobalan ......................................................... 5 Bottle Brush .................................................................. 6 Basil Plant ..................................................................... 7 Black Myrobalan .......................................................... 8 Blushing Phillodendron .................................................. 9 Black Plum ................................................................. 10 Coconut ...................................................................... 11 Cycas ......................................................................... 12 Crape Myrtle .............................................................. 13 Cotton Plant ................................................................ 14 Chinese Evergreens ..................................................... 15 Crepe Ginger .............................................................. 16 Cape Jasmine .............................................................. 17 China Rose ................................................................. 18 Crape Jasmine ............................................................ 19 Debadaru .................................................................... 20 Date Palm ................................................................... 21 Elephant Rope Tree ..................................................... 22 Elephant Apple ............................................................ 23 Elephant Ear ............................................................... 24 Fig Tree ...................................................................... 25 Guava ......................................................................... 26 Golden Cane Palm ...................................................... 27 Garden Croton ............................................................ 28 Hostel Yellow Flower .................................................. 29 Indian Rosewood ........................................................ 30

Indian Snakeroot ......................................................... 31 Jijube .......................................................................... 32 Jack Fruit .................................................................... 33 Jungle Geranium .......................................................... 34 Lemon ........................................................................ 35 Laran Burflower Tree .................................................. 36 Monkey Puzzle Tree .................................................... 37 Monkey Pod Tree ....................................................... 38 Mango ........................................................................ 39 May Flower ................................................................ 40 Milk Hedge ................................................................. 41 Neem ......................................................................... 42 Night Queen ............................................................... 43 Orange Jasmine ........................................................... 44 Putrajeeba .................................................................. 45 Peepal Tree ................................................................. 46 Peacock Flower .......................................................... 47 Rose Apple ................................................................. 48 Rose Plant .................................................................. 49 Red Sandalwood ........................................................ 50 Royal Poinciana .......................................................... 51 Southern Blue Gum ..................................................... 52 Silver Oak .................................................................. 53 Spanish Cherry ........................................................... 54 Sandal Wood .............................................................. 55 Tropical Dog Wood .................................................... 56 Tea Plant ..................................................................... 57 Turmeric ..................................................................... 58 Tamarind ..................................................................... 59 White Ceder ............................................................... 60 Yellow Oleander ......................................................... 61 Yellow Flame Tree ...................................................... 62

AUSTRALIAN ACACIASCIENTIFIC NAME: Acacia auriculiformis A. Cunn. ex BenthLOCAL NAME: Australian Acacia (Mimosa)FAMILY: Fabaceae

DESCRIPTION:Acacia is an introduced exotic medium sized tree belong to the family

Fabaceae. The leaves of acacias are compound pinnate in general. Theleaf-stalks (petioles) become vertically flattened in order to serve thepurpose of leaves known as “phyllodes”. The small flowers have five verysmall petals, almost hidden by the long stamens, and are arranged in dense,globular or cylindrical clusters; they are yellow or cream-colored.

ECONOMICIMPORTANCE:

Acacia auriculiformisis planted as road side plantsunder social forestry. Acaciaseeds are often used for foodand a variety of other products.Pollens have allargic affect.

MEDICINAL VALUE:A decoction of the root

is used to treat aches and painsand sore eyes. An infusion ofthe bark has been used to treatrheumatism. The bark containsgreater or lesser quantities oftannins and is astringent. Theyare used in the treatment ofdiarrhea and dysentery, andcan also be helpful in cases ofinternal bleeding. Appliedexternally, often as a wash, theyare used to treat wounds andother skin problems.

1

ARROWHEAD PLANTSCIENTIFIC NAME: Syngonium podophyllum Schott.LOCAL NAME: Arrowhead plantFAMILY: Araceae

DESCRIPTIONIt is an evergreen climbing exotic plant producing stems 10-20 m

long that support themselves on tree trunks by means of adventitious roots.The leaves vary gently as the plant ages. When young they have the shapeof arrowhead. But as they mature it changes and lobe is developed at thebase of the leaf.

ECONOMICIMPORTANCE

It is used as anornamental plants fordecorating and groundcover plant in tropicalgardens. It is also used asa houseplant in coolerareas. It is also used forlocal medicinal purpose.

MEDICINALVALUE:

Crushed andboiled leaf is used as awash to treatstomachache. The rootsand bark are anti-inflammatory. They areused for treatment ofdeep wounds andvarious skin disorders.The milky white sap fromstem is applied tropically

as a remedy for the bite of Paraponera ants.

2

ARJUNA TREESCIENTIFIC NAME: Terminalia arjuna (Roxb.) Wight & ArnLOCAL NAME: ArjunFAMILY: Combretaceae

DESCRIPTION:Arjun is large sized deciduous evergreen tree with very strong and

long roots. This tree reaches height up to 23-25m. It has conical leaves,yellow flowers and greyish smooth bark. It has glabrous, fibrous woody,2-3 cm long fruit with five hard wings and number of curved veins. Leavesare dull green above and pale brown beneath.

ECONOMIC IMPORTANCE:Arjun is one of the species whose leaves are fed on by the Antheraea

paphia moth which produces the tassar silk, a wild silk of commercialimportance.

MEDICINAL VALUE:Arjun plant has been used to cure heart diseases from ages. Some

of the practical uses are as follows-Arjun has an astringent effect whichacts to detoxify the blood. Its homeostatic properties help to relieve bleedingconditions and control aggravated pitta states. The general cleansing effect

of this helps to cleanurinary infections. Arjunhas an effective balancingpH of the body. In thisway, it helps to healwounds and ulcerations. Ithelps to control the bloodcholesterol levels and canbe good for people havingatherosclerosis in which

cholesterol plaques block arteries at one or multiple sites. Being cardiac tonicArjun helps to improve energy levels in the body. Arjun is used in ailments ofall kinds of external and internal bleeding problems and diseases associatedwith it. Used for treating for bleeding gums, menorrhagia, excessive bleedingfrom open wounds etc. Arjun can be given to any person with such conditions.

3

BOAT-LILYSCIENTIFIC NAME: Tradescantia spathacea Sw.LOCAL NAME: InchplantFAMILY: Commelinaceae

DESCRIPTION:Tradescantial spathacea, an exottic fleshy rhizomatic plant having

rosettes of waxy lance shaped leaves. Leaves are dark to matellic greenabove with glossy purple underneath. The small white three petaled flowersare hidding in boat shaped purple bracts present in the axils of the leaves.

ECONOMIC IMPORTANCE:They have very attractive foliage and are grown as ornamental house

plant. Used to decorate entry passage, boundary and as pot plants.

MEDICINAL VALUE:Medicinally the plant is used for cold, sore throat, whooping cough,

nasal bleeding,and is also used as an anti-inflamatory. Tradescantia hascompounds which help in the inhibition or breakdown of acetylcholine.Thus helps in the treatment of diseases like Alzheimer’s or other centralnervous system related problems.

4

BELERIC MYROBALANSCIENTIFIC NAME: Terminallia bellirica Roxb.COMMON NAME: BhomoraFAMILY: Combretaceae

DESCRIPTION:Terminalia bellirica, known as bahera or beleric or bastard

myrobalan, is a large deciduous tree common on plains and lower hills inSoutheast Asia, where it is also grown as an avenue tree. The leaves areabout 15 cm long and crowded toward the ends of the branches. It isconsidered a good fodder for cattle. Terminalia bellirica seeds have anoil content of 40%, whose fatty-acid methyl ester meets all of the majorbiodiesel requirements in the US, Germany and European Union the seedsare called bedda nuts.

ECONOMIC IMPORTANCE:It can produce oil. Use in soap making.

MEDICINAL USES:It is used to enhance liver function, Cough, Constipation, Respiratory

tract infections, Sore throat. It is one of the major ingradiants of Ayurvedicpreparation ‘triphola’. Fruit is a mild luxative and liver tonic.

5

BOTTLE BRUSHSCIENTIFIC NAME: Callistemon citrinus (Curtis) Skeels.LOCAL NAME: Weeping bottle brushFAMILY: Myrtaceae

DESCRIPTION:Callistemon citrinus is an introduced exotic shrub growing upto 5

m tall. It has hard, fibrous or papery bark. Leaves alternate 26-99 mm x4-25 mm in size, hard, flat, narrow egg-shaped having distinct oil glandsvisible on both surfaces. The flowers small, red and arranged in spikes.fruit capsules 4.4-7 mm long in cylindrical clusters along the stem.

ECONOMIC IMPORTANCE:The leaves are a tea substitute and have a delightfully refreshing

flavour. A tan dye is obtained from the flowers, it does not require a mordant,and is green when mordanted. A cinnamon dye is obtained from the leaves.Wood is hard, heavy, tough, close grained, but too small for economic use.Used for tool handles etc. it is also used as fuel.

MEDICINAL VALUE:No known medicinal uses.

6

BASIL PLANTSCIENTIFIC NAME: Ocimum sanctum L.LOCAL NAME: TulsiFAMILY: Lamiaceae

DESCRIPTION:Tulsi is an erect, much branched native sub-shrub 30-60 cm of height.

Stem quadriangular, aromatic, with simple opposite decussate green orpurple leaves that are strongly scented and hairy stems. Inflorescenceverticillaster, flowers small, purple, fragrant.

ECONOMIC IMPORTANCE:Tulsi is considered as a holy plant. Indian people used to worship it.

It is cultivated for religious and traditional medicine purposes, and for itsessential oil. It is widely used as a herbal tea, commonly used in Ayurvedafor its diverse healing properties.

MEDICINAL VALUE:Tulsi is a natural

headache reliever whichcan also relieve migrainepain. It is an age-oldingredient for treatingfever. It is one of the primeingredients in theformulation of variousayurvedic medicines andhome remedies. Tulsi is anatural mouth freshenerand an oral disinfectant. Italso cures mouth ulcers.Extracts of leaves are usedto cure cough, bronchitiesand cold fever. Used aspreventive against heartdisease, lungs disorder andalso as blood purifier.

7

BLACK MYROBALANSCIENTIFIC NAME: Terminalia chebula Retz.LOCAL NAME: SilikhaFAMILY: Combretaceae

DESCRIPTION:Terminalia chebula is a medium to large deciduous tree growing to

30 m tall, with a trunk up to 1 m in diameter. The leaves are alternate tosubopposite in arrangement, oval, 7–8 x 4.5–10 cm in size, tip acute,cordate at the base, margins entire, glabrous above with a yellowishpubescence below. Flowers in terminal spikes or short panicles, dull whiteto yellow have a strong, unpleasant odour. The fruit smooth ellipsoid toovoid drupes, 2-4.5 x 1.2–2.5 cm size, with five longitudinal ridges.

ECONOMIC IMPORTANCE:This tree yields smallish, ribbed and nut-like fruits which are picked

when still greenand then pickled,boiled with a littleadded sugar intheir own syrup orused in preserves.The fruit alsoprovides materialfor tanning leatherand dyeing cloth.Fruit juice used asnatural dye and toprepare ink inancient times. Trunk used as timber.

MEDICINAL USE:Terminalia chebula is a main ingredient in the Ayurvedic formulation

Triphala which is used for kidney and liver dysfunctions. The dried fruitis also used in Ayurveda as a purported antitussive, cardio tonic,homeostatic, diuretic, and laxative. It is widely used in the traditionalmedicine of India and Iran to treat diseases that include dementia,constipation, and diabetes.

8

BLUSHING PHILLODENDRONSCIENTIFIC NAME: Philodendron erubescens K. Koch & AugustinLOCAL NAME: Money PlantFAMILY: Araceae

DESCRIPTION:Philodendron erubescens is an exotic evergreen plant and native to

South and Central America. Stem 2-3 cm in diameter, red, weak usuallyclimber can reach height of about 6 meters. This plant features glossy, darkgreen herat shaped leaves which can reach 40 cm long and 30 cm wide.The leaves often display a copper colouring on the underside. Flowers inspadix covered by a bright pinkish red spathe.

ECONOMIC IMPORTANCE:Phillodendron spp are commonly used as house plant and mainly

known for ornamental purpose. The leaves are sometimes used to decoratebouquet and as a decorative display plant at several occasions.

MEDICINAL VALUE:No known medicinal value.

9

BLACK PLUMSCIENTIFIC NAME: Syzygium cumini (L.) Skeels.LOCAL NAME: JamunFAMILY: Myrtaceae

DESCRIPTION:A long lived, slow growing evergreen species, heights up to 30m. Leaves

deep green, leathery, elliptic, broad but pinkish when young. leaves have amild turpentine like aroma. Flowers fragrant, small, about 5mm size, lightyellow and flowering start from March to April. Fruit resemble large berries,black when ripe.

ECONOMIC IMPORTANCE:Jamun is considered to be a magic tree as its root, leaves, fruits and

even barks are used for numerous medicinal properties. Its dense foliageprovides shade and isgrown just for itsornamental value. Thewood is water resistantand used as timber. Theleaves are used as food forlivestock as they havegood nutritional value.

MEDICINEALVALUE:

The pulp and the seedsare significant for treatingdiabetes. The diureticeffects of jamun flushtoxins out of the kidneys.Ayurveda stronglyrecommends this berry fortreating various conditionsrelated to heart, arthritis, asthma, stomach pain, bowel spasm, dysentery.Jamun is effective in controlling high blood sugar. The abundance of iron injamun makes it one of the natural foods to purify blood.

10

COCONUTSCIENTIFIC NAME: Cocos nucifera L.LOCAL NAME: Narikal or CoconutFAMILY: Arecaceae

DESCRIPTION:The coconut plant is an

errect large palm growing upto30m tall with a large crown ofleaves at the top. Leaves large,4-6 m long, pinnate, pinnae 60-90 cm long. Inflorescencelarge, separately male andfemale flowers are arranged inthe same inflorescence. Thefemale one is much larger thanmale one. Coconut fruit is adrupe. The exocarp andmesocarp make up the huskand edible flesh is endosperm.

ECONOMICIMPORTANCE:

Every part of thecoconut plant can be be usedand has significant economic value. It is primarily cultivated for their oilwhich is extracted from the endosperm and used in cooking. Low gradeoils are used in soap industries. The flesh is consumed fresh or dry andcommonly use in baking. It is also used to produce coconut milk by squeezingthe liquid from the grated endosperm. Leaves used to make many decorativeitems. Husks are used to make rope, cocopeat and in floricultural industry.

MEDICINAL VALUE:Coconut flesh is high in ascorbic acid, vitamins B, and proteins and

meet nutritional requirements. Coconut helps to restore oxidative tissuedamage and contains a source of healthy fats, proteins and vitamins andminerals. Coconut improves beauty and skin health.

11

CYCASSCIENTIFIC NAME: Cycas pectinata Buch-Ham.LOCAL NAME: NaagchampaFAMILY: Cycadaceae

DESCRIPTION:Cycas pectinata is a native evergreen species of gymnosperm in

the family Cycadaceae. A crown of leaves at the top similar to palm tree, itattains a height of 12 m, having scars of leaf bases on the trunk. Leaves 1-2 m long, pinnately compound, dark green. Male cone large, cylindricallyovoid an yellow orange in colour. Female cone unorganized, megasporophylldeeply pectinate.

12

ECONOMIC IMPORTANCE:C. pectinata is popular for ornamental purpose and commonly

planted gardens and public places. Leaves are used to decorate temporaryshrines, marrige hall and flower bouquets. Young fronds are used asvegetables in many tribes in NE India. Seeds are used as a source of starchand eaten raw or roasted.

MEDICINAL VALUE:The young microsporophylls are chewed raw to cure stomach ache

and ultures. Young man eaten raw young micro-sporophyll to enhence malesexual potency. Ovules are eaten boiled to cure stomach disor-der.Theleaves are used in the treatment of Cancer and Hepatoma. The terminalshoot is astringent and diuretic. The seed is tonic and used in the treatmentof rheumatism

CRAPE MYRTLESCIENTIFIC NAME: Lagerstroemia speciosa (L.) Prers.LOCAL NAME: AjarFAMILY: Lythraceae

DESCRIPTION:Lagerstroemia speciosa, is a native deciduous tree. Leaves opposite,

leathery, oval to elliptic, 8-15 x 3-7 cm in size, turn attractively red beforefalling. Flowers are in erect panicles, flower white to purple, fragrant, about3.5 cm size, capsules ovoid, each filled with 20- 30 seeds. Flowering duringsummer. It is grown in South East Asia, India , Bangladesh and thePhilippines. It is also widely cultivated as an ornamental plant in tropicaland subtropical areas.

ECONOMIC IMPORTANCE:It is grown in South East Asia, India, Bangladesh and the Philippines

as road side plant. It is also widely cultivated as an ornamental plant intropical andsubtropical areas. InVietnam young leaveseaten as vegetables.Tree trunk used asgood timber. It is goodfor charcoal and fuelwood. Bark andleaves contain tannin.Tusser silkworms arealso fed on the tree.

MEDICINAL USE:It is a medi-

cinal tree traditionallyused to lower blood

sugar in the body. Its high content of corosolic acid makes it an effectiveanti-diabetic drug. It is also recommended for kidney, bladder problemsand hypertension. Decoction of bark is used for diarrhoea andabdominal pain.

13

COTTON PLANTSCIENTIFIC NAME: Gossypium hirsutum L.LOCAL NAME: KopahFAMILY: Malvaceae

DESCRIPTION:Annual shrub, branching two typed-vegetative and fertile, leaves

alternate, palmately 3-5 lobed, hirsute, Flower large, white or yellow,subtended by a reducedcalyx and 3-4 large green fringed bracts,Fruit acapsule, 4-6 cm long, smooth walled with few oil gands. Inside fruit hairywhite fibres present.

ECONOMIC IMPORTANCE:Cotton is used to make yarn used in crochet and knitting. Cotton is

used to make a number of textile products. These include terrycloth forhighly absorbent bath towels and robes; denim for blue jeans. In additionto the textile industry, cotton is used in fishing nets, coffee filters, tents,cotton paper, in bookbinding etc. Cotton seed oil extracted from seeds.

MEDICINAL VALUE:Cotton is used for nausea, fever, headache, diarrhea, dysentery and

nerve pain and bleeding. Women use cotton for menstrual disorders andsymptoms ofmenopause. Theyalso use it to bringon labor andchildbirth, as wellas to expel theafterbirth. Cottonseed and rootshave been used innasal polyps anduterinefibroids.Flowers used asdiuretic andemollient. Rootdecoction is used in diarrhea and dysentery.

14

CHINESE EVERGREENSSCIENTIFIC NAME: Aglaonema commutatum Schott.LOCAL NAME: Chinese evergreensFAMILY: Araceae

DESCRIPTION:It is an exotic

evergreen perennialherbs with stemsgrowing erect ordecumbent and creeping.Stems that grow alongthe ground may root atthe nodes. There isgenerally a crown ofwide leaf blades which inwild species are oftenvariegated with silverand green coloration.The inflorescence bearsunisexual flowers in aspadix. The fruit is afleshy berry that ripensred.

ECONOMIC IMPORTANCE:They are commonly grown as ornamental plants for their variegated

foliage and bright red fruits. In tropical regions they are cultivated ingardens, but they are also commonly grown as an indoor pot plant, alsoin temperate regions. Used as a covering for ground, mass planting andlandscaping.

MEDICINAL VALUE:The roots are used as a tonic for children and as anthelmintic. A decoction

of the roots is drunk to treat fever and dropsy. They have been grown asluck-bringing ornamental plants in Asia for centuries.

15

CREPE GINGERSCIENTIFIC NAME: Costus specious (J. Konig) C. Specht.COMMON NAME: Jom lakhutiFAMILY: Costaceae

DESCRIPTION:Common in damp marshy areas and also rarely cultivated as

ornamental plant. Shrubs with usually spirally twisted stem, leavesoblanceolate-obovate, villous beneath, spike terminal, compact, ovoid orellipsoid. Bracts greenish-red becoming bright red in age. Flowers white,showy with a median yellow.

ECONOMIC IMPORTANCE:Pharmaceutically, antibacterial and anti-fungal activity were observed.

Occasionally ornamental.

MEDICINAL VALUE:A natural source of diosgenin

(upto 3.7%) which is a steroidalsapogenin used for synthesis of sexhormones, cortisone and oralcontraceptives. It is use in eyediseases and as a depurative maybe due to the anticholinesteraseactivity. The plant has manymedicinal uses, juice of rhizome isused for relief from head-ache,bruised leaves are applied in fever,decoction of stem is used in feverand dysentery, sap from leaves,young stems are used againstdiarrhea cough, cuts, wounds etc.The rhizomes of C. speciosus arebitter, astringent, acrid, cooling,aphrodisiac, purgative,anthelminthic, depurative, febrifuge,expectorant, tonic, improve digestion, and is a stimulant herb that clearstoxins.

16

CAPE JASMINESCIENTIFIC NAME: Gardenia angusta Merr. (G.. jasminoides J. Ellis)LOCAL NAME: TogorFAMILY: Rubiaceae

DESCRIPTION:It is an evergreen flowering plant widely used in gardens in warm

temperate and subtropical regions. It is a shrub with greyish bark and darkgreen, shiny evergreen, leaves with prominent veins. Flowers white, large,funnel-shaped blooming in summer and autumn and among the most stronglyfragrant of all flowers.

ECONOMIC IMPORTANCE:Gardenia plant is planted in gardens for its beautiful fragrant flowers

and highly ornamental. Besides, its flower is edible. In food, Gardenia isused as a yellow food colorant. Flowers are used to make things like lotionsand candles. An essential oil is extracted from the flowers. It is used inperfume.

MEDICINAL VALUE:Prevent infections, including urinary tract and bladder infections.

Prevent depression and anxiety. Fighting free radical damage and formationof tumors.

17

CHINA ROSESCIENTIFIC NAME: Hibiscus rosa-sinensis L.LOCAL NAME: Rakta Joba, China roseFAMILY: Malvaceae

DESCRIPTION:Hibiscus rosa-sinensis is a bushy evergreen shrub of 2.5-5m height.

Leaves glossy, simple alternate, ovate, tip is acute and margin is serrated.Flowers solitary, brilliantly red colour. The 5-petaled trumpet shaped flowersare 10cm in diameter, with prominent orange tipped red anthers. At thebottom of every hibiscus bud is the calyx which is green in colour.

ECONOMIC IMPORTANCE:These are best known as ornamental plants grown for their flowers

in the garden and sometimes indoors. They have been also used commercialperfumery and commercial cut flower crops. Some are used as landscapeplants, for hedging and other utilitarian purposes such as game cover andslope stabilization. Active constituents of hibiscus other chemical constituentsare alkaloids, L-ascorbic acid etc.

MEDICINAL USES:The leaves, roots and flowers have various medicinal properties.

The leaves and calyces have been used as food and the flowers steepedfor tea. Hibiscus has been used in folk medicine as a diuretic and mildlaxative, as well as in treating cancer and cardiac and nerve diseases. Peopleuse hibiscus for treating such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol,increasing the production of breast milk, infections, and many otherconditions. The flower bud is also used for hair fall control.

18

CRAPE JASMINESCIENTIFIC NAME: Tabernaemontana divaricata R. Br ex. Roem & Schult.LOCAL NAME: Kathana PhulFAMILY: Apocynaceae

DESCRIPTION:Evergreen glabrous dichotomously branched shrubs growing to 1-

15m tall, with white latex, leaves elliptic lanceolate or oblanceolate, opposite,3-5cm long, acuminate or caudate, tapering at the base into a short petiolemembranous or thinly coriaceous. Flowers now white, fragrant at night,solitary or few flowers cymes in axis or Terminal, often double. follicles 2,green outside, curved, orange-red within, seed many. Significance -

ECONOMIC IMPORTANCE:Commonly cultivated everywhere in gardens for its beautiful white

flowers and used bygardener for garland. Thewood is burnt as incenseand used in perfumery. Alsohave been used as atraditional medicine and asa source of pharmacologicalcompounds like alkaloids,on -alkaloids constituents.

MEDICINAL VALUE:Plant parts are used

in Ayurvedic, Chinese, Thaitraditional medicine. Studieshave shown propertiesincluding antioxidant,antitumor, anti-infection,analgesic. The augmen-tation of cholinergic function may be of therapeuticbenefits for many neurodegenerative disease, particularly and myastheniagravis, Alzheimer’s disease. In Ayurveda, this plant is considered to pacifyvata and pitta Vedas.

19

DEBADARUSCIENTIFIC NAME: Polyalthia longifolia Sonn. ThwaitesLOCAL NAME: False ashoka or DebadaruFAMILY: Annonaceae

DESCRIPTION:A drooping to spreading tree.

Fresh leaves are a coppery browncolor and are soft and delicate totouch, as the leaves grow older thecolor becomes a light green andfinally a dark green. The leaves areshaped like a lance and have wavyedges.

ECONOMIC IMPORTANCE:The tree is planted for its

dense shade and elegantappearance. The fruits are eaten bybirds or monkeys. Leaves are usedfor ornamental decoration in festivals.The leaves are larval food plant ofthe tailed jay and the kite swallowtailbutterflies.

MEDICINAL VALUE:The plant has been commonly

used in traditional system ofmedicine for the treatment of fever,skin diseases, diabetes, hypertensionand helminthiasis.Pharmacological studies have shownthat P. longifolia possessessignificant pharmacological activities, such as antibacterial, antifungal,antitumor, anti-ulcer and antioxidant properties. P. longifolia can beconsidered as an ancient remedy to be explored for the development ofvarious novel therapeutic agents. Bark is used medicinally as a febrifuge.

20

DATE PALMSCIENTIFIC NAME: Phoenix dactylifera L.LOCAL NAME: Khejur or KhajuriFAMILY: Arecaceae

DESCRIPTION:The date palm is 21-23 m in height, growing singly or forming a

clump. Leaves 4-6m long, pinnate, with spines on petiole and with about150 leaflets. Leaflets 30 cm in length and pointed to a spine. The date palmis dioecious, having separate male and female plants. Flowers small yellow.Fruit cylindrical, 3-7 cm long.

ECONOMIC IMPORTANCE:The date palm tree is an important resource for the people living in

the desert because it provides people of the desert the best food alongwith the building material to people. It also indicates the people who wanderaround for the trace of water for the oasis, in the desert area. Juice extractedfrom stem used as drinks.

MEDICINAL VALUE:The date palm has a lot of medicinal uses which includes cold, fever,

cystitis, edema, sore throat, bronchial catarrh, liver cancer, low sperm countand abdominal trouble to mention few. Seeds are used in a paste to relieveague. Its gum (exudes from wounds) is used for the treatment of diarrhoea.The fruit is a natural source of folic acid, an important micro nutrient andindependent risk factor for cardio vascular disease.

21

ELEPHANT ROPE TREESCIENTIFIC NAME: Sterculia villosia Roxb. ex SmLOCAL NAME: OudalFAMILY: Sterculiaceae

DESCRIPTION:Hairy Sterculia is a

medium sized, native toIndia. Leaves carried on 25-40 cm long stalks, arepalmately 5-7-lobed and20-40 cm long and broad,heart-shaped at the base,lobes somewhat oblong orobovate entire or 3-fid.Flowers are borne inpanicles 15-30 cm long,rusty velvety, pendulous.Flowers are unisexual, withstalks 4-8 mm long. Seed-pods are 5; stalk less, 4-6cm long, leathery, rustypubescent, many-seededand red when ripe. Seedsare oblong, smooth andblack.

ECONOMICIMPORTANCE:

The powdered rootis mixed with rice flour andused to prepare a bread-like doughnut. It makes the bread soft and tasty.A gum obtained from the bark is used as a substitute for gum tragacanth inconfectionery. Fruit bark is used as decorative. Extract rope by villagers.

MEDICINAL VALUE:Sterculia villosia is used by Indians as a traditional remedy for

inflammation.22

ELEPHANT APPLE

23

SCIENTIFIC NAME: Dillenia indica L.LOCAL NAME: Ou Tenga, Elephant appleFAMILY: Dilleniaceae

DESCRIPTION:It is an evergreen large shrub or small to medium sized tree growing to

15m tall. The leaves are 15-36 cm long, with a conspicuously corrugatedsurface with impressed veins. The flowers are solitary, large, with fivepersistant sepals and five papery white petals and numerous yellow stamens.Its characteristic round fruits are large, greenish yellow, have many seeds.Fruit is spurious (false).

ECONOMIC IMPORTANCE:The fruit is edible. Leaves are reported to be lopped for fodder. Leaves

have a great importance in the cottage industry for wrapping bidis, becauseof its certain special quality such as flavor, color, resistance to decay, leatherytexture, burning qualities etc. and mainly because of its availability in thelarger parts of India. Its branches are used to make good firewood. Fruitsare used to make pickle, jelly etc.

MEDICINAL VALUE:Traditionally different parts of Dillenia indica are used for the relief of

indigestion, asthma, influenza, dysentry, jaundice, promeho, weakness andrheumatic pain, but recent studies reported the extractives showed significantcytotoxic, CNS depressant and free radical scavenging activity. Dried fruitis used to reduce blood sugar.

ELEPHANT EARSCIENTIFIC NAME: Colocasia esculenta (L.) Schott.LOCAL NAME: Kola kachuFAMILY: Araceae

DESCRIPTION:The Taro is an herbaceous perennial, mostly cultivated as an annual.

It grows up to a height of 2m. Its grows adventitious and shallow root systemarises from the corm, a swollen underground stem that contains high levelsof fine starch and weighs up to 1kg. Corms are usually cylindrical and 30cmlong×15cm diameter but they are highly variable in size, shape and color.Petiole black purple and exude white milky juice when cut.

ECONOMIC IMPORTANCE:People usually consume the edible corm and leaves. The corms are

roasted, baked andboiled. Young taroleaves and stemscan be eaten afterboiling twitch toremove the acridflavor. The leavesare good source ofvitamin A and C andcontain moreproteins than thecorms. Taro root isan excellent sourceof dietary fiber andgood carbohy-drates, which bothimprove thefunction of thedigestive systemand can contribute to healthy weight loss.

MEDICINAL VALUE:Prevent Bone loss, Circulation stimulation. Helps maintain dental health.

Cancer prevention. Reduce symptoms of Rheumatid Arthritic. It is a goodsource of iodine.

24

FIG TREESCIENTIFIC NAME: Ficus racemosa L.LOCAL NAME: DimaruFAMILY: Moraceae

DESCRIPTION:Tree about

20 m tall rarely withaerial roots, barkwhitish-brown,smooth, Leavesgrooved minutelyhairy, lamina ovate-lanceolate toelliptic-lanceolate,tri-ribbed, 8-10pairs of lateral pairsfrom broad tonarrowly cuneate,oblique base, margin entire, acuminate at apex, glabrous on both sides.Inflorescence is a hypanthodium on long peduncles, borne in large clusters,subpyriform-globose, green and red when ripe.

ECONOMIC IMPORTANCE:The tree is cultivated to provide shade for coffee tree. The bark

contains tannin. The latex is used in the production of water-resistant paperand as plasticizer for Hevea rubber. Fruits favouriate to animals and birds.

MEDICINAL VALUE:Ficus racemosa is a medicinal plant in Ayurveda, the ancient system

of Indian medicine. Various parts used to cure diabetes, liver disorders,diarrhea, inflammatory conditions, hemorrhoids, respiratory, and urinarydiseases. F. racemosa is pharmacologically studied for various activitiesincluding antidiabetic, antipyretic, anti-inflammatory, antitussive, hepatoprotective and antimicrobial activities. A wide range of phytochemicalconstituents have been identified and isolated from various parts of F.racemosa.

25

GUAVASCIENTIFIC NAME: Psidium guajava L.LOCAL NAME: Madhuri AamFAMILY: Myrtaceae

DESCRIPTION:Guava is a shrub or under tree with smmoth bark. Leaves tough,

dark green, opposite, simple, elliptic to ovate 5-15 cm long. Flowers white,with five petals, and many stamens. Fruit many seeded berries. Widelycultivated in tropical and subtropical regions around the world for guavafruits.

ECONOMIC IMPORTANCE:Fruits are eaten as such or canned, preserved spiced or made into

jam, butter, marmalade, pies, ketchups and chutneys. Leaves contain anessential oil which is used as flavouring. Leaves used as fodder.

MEDICINAL VALUE:Guava finds applications for the treatment of diarrhoea, dysentery,

gastroenteritis, hypertension, diabetes, caries and pain relief and forimprovement in locomotors coordination. Its fruit is rich in vitamins A, C,iron, phosphorus and calcium and minerals. It contains high content oforganic andi n o r g a n i cc o m p o u n d slike secondarymetabolites e.g.antioxidants,polyphenols,antiviral comp-ounds, anti-inflammatorycompounds.Leaves used asan astringentfor boweltroubles; also used for tanning. It has been effective in halting vomiting anddiarrhoea in cholera patients.

26

GOLDEN CANE PALMSCIENTIFIC NAME: Chrysalidocarpus lutescens H. Wendl.LOCAL NAME: Momai tamulFAMILY: Arecaceae

DESCRIPTION:Chrysalidocarpus lutescens grows 6-12 m in height. Multiple stems

emerge from the base. The fronds are arched, 2-3 m long, and pinnate,with 40-60 pairs of leaflets. It bears panicles of yellow flowers in summer.Offsets can be cut off when mature enough, as a propagation method.

ECONOMIC IMPORTANCEIt is grown as an ornamental plant in gardens in tropical and

subtropical regions, and elsewhere indoors as a houseplant. The plant isoften grown as an ornamental and sometimes for agroforestry as a hedgeor screen. These plants helps in helps in absorbing indoor air pollutants likeAcetone,Xylene,Toluene and Formaldehyde which emits from petroleumproducts, paints and wooden furnitures.

MEDICINAL VALUENo medicinal used known.

27

GARDEN CROTONSCIENTIFIC NAME: Codiaeum variegatum (L.) A. Juss.LOCAL NAME: Fire croton, Pat BaharFAMILY: Euphorbiaceae

DESCRIPTION:It is a tropical, ever-green,

monoecious shrub growing to 3 mtall and has large, thick, leathery,shiny evergreen leaves, alternatelyarranged, 5-30 cm x 0.5-8 cm insize. The leaf blades may ruler-lanceolate, oblong, elliptic,lanceolate, ovate inverted, ovatespatulate, or violin-shaped andcolored green, yellow, or purple invarious patterns, depending on thevariety. The inflorescences are longracemes, 8-30 cm long, with maleand female flowers on separateinflorescences. Male flowers arewhite and female flowers yellowish.

ECONOMIC IMPORTANCE:The plant is often grown as

an ornamental in gardens, beingespecially valued for its vast rangeof variegated-leaf cultivars.The oilfrom the seeds is used in medicine.Exceptionally, the sap can cause skin eczema in some people. The bark,roots, latex, and leaves are poisonous.

MEDICINAL VALUE:People take croton seeds for emptying and cleansing the stomach

and intestines. They also take croton seeds to treat gallbladder problems,colic, blocked intestines, and malaria. The plant contains oil which is violentlypurgative and is suspected to be carcinogenic.

28

HOSTEL YELLOW FLOWERSCIENTIFIC NAME: Ehretia acuminata R. Br.LOCAL NAME: Poroja, Bowal, KodaFAMILY: Boraginaceae

DESCRIPTION:Koda tree is a hardy, fast growing deciduous tree, upto 30 m tall

commonly available in South East Asia. Leaves simple, alternate, elliptic toobovate or oblong-ovate, margin regularly serrate with teeth curved upward,5-13 × 4-6 cm in size. Small fragrant white flowers occur in panicles 8-15cm long. Flowers are tiny white bell shaped, with 5 spreading pointedpetals. Flowers are followed by large clusters of edible, sweet tasting, ripeyellow-orange berries in autumn, which are loved and eaten by birds.

ECONOMIC IMPORTANCE:Ehretia acuminata is used for roadside plantings. Used as a

important shade and bird attracting tree for parks and home gardens. Timberused for furniture and joinery. The immature fruit is pickled.

MEDICINAL VALUE:The leaves and branchlets are used in Chinese medicine. The juice

of the bark is used in the treatment of fever.

29

INDIAN ROSEWOODSCIENTIFIC NAME: Dalbergia sisso (Roxb.) Kuntze.LOCALNAME: SishooFAMILY: Fabaceae

DESCRIPTION:D. sissoo is a medium to large, deciduous, long lived tree with a

spreading crownand thickbranches. It attainsa height of upto30m. The bark isthick, rough andgrey. Leavesleathery, alternateand pinnatelycompound.Theinflorescence is anaxillary panicle.Flowers whitishpink, fragrant,sessile, about 1 cm in size. Fruit pods, oblong, strap like, 4-8 cm long,seeds are kidney shaped, variable in size.

ECONOMIC IMPORTANCE:Indian rosewood is ranked among the most finest wood for furniture,

cabinet decorative objects. It is also a valuable, decorative wood suitablefor carving and ornamental plywood and veneers. The logs and tops canbe used for fuel wood and makes excellant charcoal. Traditionally, slendertwigs are first chewed and used as tooth brush.

MEDICINAL VALUE:Decoction of leaves is used in the treatment of gonorrhoea. Wood is

used for the treatment of leprosy, boils, vomiting. Bark is used for treatingdisorders such as sciatica, hemiplegia. Ethanolic extract of the fruits exhibitedmolluscicide effect against eggs of fresh water snail.

30

INDIAN SNAKEROOT

SCIENTIFIC NAME: Rauwolfia serpentina (L.) Benth. ex Kurz.LOCAL NAME: Sarpagandha

DESCRIPTION:Indian snakeroot is native to the Indian subcontinent and East Asia.

Rauvolfia is a perennial undershrub up to 45 cm high, widely distributed inIndia in the sub-Himalayan regions up to 1,000 metres. Leaves large, inwhorls of three, dark green. Flowers white, pinkish red, usually in whorls.Fruits tiny, oval, fleshy and turns into blackish when ripe.

ECONOMIC IMPORTANCE:Rauvolfia serpentina contains dozens of alkaloids of the indole

alkaloid family, including ajmaline, ajmalicine, reserpine, and serpentine,among others.

MEDICINAL VALUE:Rauwolfia serpentina is purgative, anthelmintic, a sedative and

hypotensive and is an antidote for snake - and insect-bite; now mostlyused in hypertension. Indian snakeroot is used for mild high blood pressure,nervousness, trouble sleeping (insomnia), and mental disorders such asagitated psychosis and insanity. It is also used for snake and reptile bites,fever, constipation, feverish intestinal diseases, liver ailments, achy joints(rheumatism), fluid retention (edema), epilepsy, and as a tonic for generaldebilities. One of the chemicals in Indian snakeroot is the same as aprescription drug called reserpine.

31

JUJUBESCIENTIFIC NAME: Zizyphus jujuba Mill.COMMON NAME: Bogori; Indian cherry; Indian PlumFAMILY: Rhamnaceae

DESCRIPTION:Ziziphus jujuba is a deceduous, spiny shrubs or small trees belongs

to the family Rhamnaceae. The leaves are alternate, entire, with threeprominent basal veins, and 2-7 cm long. Flowers small, about 5 mm insize, yellowish, fruit drupe, round to oval.

ECONOMIC IMPORTANCE:The freshly harvested, as well as the candied dried fruit, are often

eaten as a snack, or with coffee. Smoked jujubes are consumed in Vietnamand are referred to as black jujubes. Both China and Korea produce asweetened tea syrup containing jujube fruit in glass jars, and canned jujubetea or jujube tea in the form of teabags. To a lesser extent, jujube fruit ismade into juice and jujube vinegar. They are used for making pickles inwest Bengal and Bangladesh. In China, a wine made called hong zao jiu.MEDICINAL USE:

Helps in sleeping. Chronic constipation relief. Soothes anxiety. Richin vitamins. Regulates in blood pressure. Important in bone strength.

32

JACK FRUIT

SCIENTIFIC NAME: Artocarpus heterophyllus. Lam.LOCAL NAME: KathalFAMILY: Moraceae

DESCRIPTION:The jackfruit plant is a evergreen, native big tree also known as jack

tree of 20m height. The bark is reddish brown, generally smooth and releasedmilky juice when injured. Leaves are alternate, leathery, 20-40 x 7-18 cmin size, oblong to ovate and lower surface rough. The inflorescence borneon trunks, branches and twigs. Inflorescence pedunculate, cylindricalproduce multiple fruit called sorosis. It bears the largest fruit of all trees,reaching as much as 55 kg in weight, 90 x 50 cm in size.

ECONOMIC IMPORTANCE:Jackfruit is a multipurpose tree with a great importance for its fruit,

timber, fodder and fuel wood. The flesh of fruit has a sweet, distinctiveflavor, which some describe as a cross between banana and pineapple.Young fruits are used for making pickles, curry and many food items. Seedsare good source of vitamins and minerals.

MEDICINAL VALUE:Jackfruit is a good source of vitamin C, potassium, dietary fiber,

minerals various phytochemicals, such as flavonoids, saponins, and tanninsand have antioxidants which may help to counter the effects of free radicals.Jackfruit seeds may help reduce levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL)cholesterol and raise levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol.

33

JUNGLE GERANIUMSCIENTIFIC NAME: Ixora coccinea L.LOCAL NAME: RangolFAMILY: Rubiaceae

DESCRIPTION:Ixora coccinea is

a dense, multi-branchedevergreen shrub,commonly 1.2 m – 1.8 min height, but capable ofreaching up to 4 m high.It has a rounded form,with a spread that mayexceed its height. Leavesglossy, leathery, oblongabout 10 cm long, withentire margins, and bornein opposite pairs orwhorled on the stems.Flowers small, red,tubuler scarlet flowers indense rounded clusters ofupto 15 cm across areproduced almost all year long.

ECONOMIC IMPORTANCE:Ixora species are well known as ornamentals and are commonly

planted in gardens, parks and along roadsides. The wood of Ixora isoccasionally used, often for implements and comparatively small objects.

MEDICINAL VALUES:Ixora coccinea are used in Indian traditional medicine, the

Ayurveda for various ailments. It is used as an astringent and to treatdysentery and tuberculosis. An infusion of the leaves or flowers are usedto treat fever, headache and colic. A decoction of the roots is used as asedative.

34

LEMONSCIENTIFIC NAME: Citrus limon (L.) Osbeck.LOCAL NAME: (Nemu) or LemonFAMILY: Rutaceae

DESCRIPTION:Citrus limon is a native

evergreen, thorny, aromaticshrub growing upto 3 m heightbelong to the family Rutaceae.Leaves simple or pinnatelycpompound, alternate, glanddotted, fragrant. Inflorescenceaxillary, solitary or cymosecluster, flower white, bisexual,actinomorphic, sweet scented,flower round the year, mainlyflower in March-April. Fruitelliptical, hesperidium, highlyjuiocy, yellow when ripe.

ECONOMICIMPORTANCE:

Fruit used to make pickles, squash and basically used as flavouringagent. An essential oil from the peel is used as a food flavouring and also inperfumery and medicines. High quality essential oil is obtained from theflowers and the peel. The dried fruit rind has been used as an insect repellentin the clothes cupboards, boxes etc. A semi-drying oil obtained from theseed is used in soap making.

MEDICINAL VALUE:The fruit is rich in vitamin C which helps the body to fight off infections

and also to prevent or treat scurvy. Applied locally, the juice is a goodastringent and is used as a gargle for sore throats etc. Lemon juice is also avery effective bactericide. This makes it useful in the treatment of rheumaticconditions. The skin of the ripe fruit is carminative and stomachic. Theessential oil from the skin of the fruit is strongly rubefacient and when takeninternally in small doses has stimulating and carminative properties.

35

LARAN BURFLOWER TREE

SCIENTIFIC NAME: Neolamarckia cadamba (Roxb.) BosserLOCAL NAME: Kadam, laran burflower – treeFAMILY: Rubiaceae

DESCRIPTION:Neolamarckia cadamba is an fast growing evergreen to deciduous,

tropical tree native Southeast Asia may attain a height upto 45m. Leaveslarge, simple, 13-32cm long. It has scented orange flowers in dense globeshaped duster. The tree is provided with high importance both religiouslyand culturally in India.

ECONOMIC IMPORTANCE:Neolamarckia cadamba is a favoured for plantation both inside

and outside of its native range and fast growing character. The tree is grown asan ornamental plant and also used for timber and paper making. The wood canbe easily impregnated with synthetic resins to increase its density and compressivestrength. Scented orange flowers are used in making perfumes.

MEDICINAL VALUE:The dried bark is used as fever reliever and also as a tonic. Its leaf

extract is used for mouth gargling. Its flowers are the major source ofessential oil. The plant is also considered to be astringent, digestive,expectorant. It is used in the treatment of condition such as ulcers, digestiveproblems, fever and vomiting.

36

MONKEY PUZZLE TREE

SCIENTIFIC NAME: Araucaria araucana Pav.LOCAL NAME: Cookie pineFAMILY: Araucariaceae

DESCRIPTION:An evergreen exotic gymnospermic tree.The leaves are thick, tough and scale like,

triangular, 3-4cm long and 1-3cm broad at the base and with sharp edges and tips. Itis usually dioecious with the male and female cones are separate trees. It has beautifulcone like shape.

ECONOMIC IMPORTANCE:It is a popular garden tree, for its beautiful cone shaped structure. Their seeds are

edible similar to large pine nuts. They are valued for the conspicuous growth habitsthat set them apart from nearly all other conifers.

MEDICINAL VALUE:A resin obtained from incisions in the trunk is used in the treatment of ulcers and

wounds. Used as gastro protective, antiviral and anti-inflammatory activity.

37

MONKEY POD TREE

SCIENTIFIC NAME: Albizia saman (Jacq.) F. Muell. (Syn. Samanea saman)LOCAL NAME: ShirisFAMILY: Fabaceae

DESCRIPTION:

Albizia saman is a medium-sized or large tree of potentially greatsize, often reaching 25-30 m tall, occasionally 45 m, and a wide, low,spreading crown, often twice as wide as the tree is high. The bark is grey-brown, rough and furrowed into ridges. Leaves are large, 6-25 mm x 3-8cm size, bipinnate, with 3-6 pairs of pinnae per leaf, 6-9 pairs of leafletsper pinna. Leaflets are unequal in size, becoming larger towards the distalend of the pinnae. Flowers pinkish white on terminal heads.

ECONOMIC IMPORTANCE:The wood of Albizia saman is used to manufacture of furniture,

cabinets, decorative veneers, bowls and other handicrafts. Its shade protectslivestock from the hot tropical sun. Its nutritious pods contain 12-18%crude protein and are 40% digestible. This species is used as shade fortea, coffee, cacao, nutmeg and vanilla.

MEDICINAL VALUE:Decoction with inner bark and fresh leaves is used as a treatment for

diarrhea. A brew of small sections of the bark is taken to treat stomach-ache. A crude aqueous or alcoholic extract of the leaves is observed tohave anti-tuberculosis and inhibiting effect on Mycobacterium tuberculosis.

38

MANGOSCIENTIFIC NAME: Mangifera indica L.LOCAL NAME: AamFAMILY: Anacardiaceae

DESCRIPTION:Mangifera indica commonly known as mango is a native stone fruit

producing trees upto 30m height and 3.7 m stem circumference. Mango ismainly cultivated for their edible fruit. Mango is a evergreen tree flowersduring Decmber in South India and February-March in North India. Leaveslanceolate, dark green but purple pink when young. Flowers very small,borne in clusters and light yellow in colour.

ECONOMIC IMPORTANCE:Mango is a vital fruit for human nutrition which is the national fruit

and known as king of fruits in India. Raw mangos are used for makingpickle, Jam-Jelly, squash and for making many food items. Ripe mango isa good source of nutrition and used variously in food industries.

MEDICINAL VALUE:Mango leaves are very useful for managing diabetes. It also lowers

blood pressure. Mangoes are also loaded with vitamin A, making it a perfectfruit to improve eye sight. It also prevents night blindness and dry eyes.The enzymes in mangoes help in breaking down protein content in thebody. Enriched with fibers, mangoes aid good digestion and prevent manystomach related diseases.

39

MAYFLOWER

40

SCIENTIFIC NAME: Epigaea repens L.LOCAL NAME: ShaoniFAMILY: Ericaceae

DESCRIPTION:The species is a shrub with pink flowers, fading to nearly white,very

fragnant, about 15 cm across when expanded few or many in clusters atends of branches. Leaves small, Alternate, oval, rounded, at the base hairyand evergreen. Slow growing. Calyx of five dry overlapping sepals, corollasalver-shaped, the slender, hairy tube spreading into five equal lobes, 10stamens, one pistil with a column like style and a five lobed stigma.

ECONOMIC IMPORTANCE:The first spring blooming plant. Plants planted as ornamental as well as

hedge. Flowers fragrant with spicy slightly acid flavour. Raw flowersometimes eaten as salads.

MEDICINAL VALUES:Rarely used medicinally even in folk medicine. Thought it is a strong

urinary antiseptic and used as one of the most effective remedies for cystitis,arthritis and also used in homeopathic medicine.

MILK HEDGESCIENTIFIC NAME: Euphorbia tithymaloides L.LOCAL NAME: PedilanthusFAMILY: Euphorbiaceae

DESCRIPTION:The shurb can

grow to 6-8 feet inheight. The leaf issimple, sessile, arrangedoppositely on the stem.The leaves are glabrousand acuminate in shapewith entire edges. Theveins in the leaves arepinnate. The flowers isvoid of scent. The malepedicel is hairy while thefemale is glabrous. Theplant generally flowers inmid-spring.

ECONOMICIMPORTANCE:

E. tithymaloidesis a popular succulentshrub cultivated asornamental, often as ahedge or potted plant.The seeds also yield anoil which is used forburning purposes.

MEDICINAL VALUE:A proteolytic enzyme known as pedilanthain is extracted from the

latex of the plant which is effective against intestinal worms and to reduceinflammation when ingested. A galactose specific lectin was purified fromthe plant’s latex which may be an indicators that it might be useful in combatingdiabetes mellitus.

41

NEEMSCIENTIFIC NAME: Azadirachta indica A. Juss.LOCAL NAME: Neem, Moha-neemFAMILY: Meliaceae

DESCRIPTION:Neem is a fast-

growing native treethat can reach a heightof 15-20 metres. It isevergreen with wideand spreadingbranches. Leavesopposite, pinnate with20-30 leaflets. Leaveshighly bitter in teste.Flowers small, 5-6mm in size, white,fragrant arranged inaxillary panicles. Fruit olive like drupe, oval to roundish in shape.

ECONOMIC IMPORTANCE:Dried neem leaves are placed in cupboards to prevent insects eating

the clothes and other dried food items in India. Tender shoots and flowersare used as food. Leaves are used to prepare various food items. Oilextracted from neem are used in cosmatic industries. Wood is used astimber.

MEDICINAL VALUE:Neem extract in water is known for its natural anti bacterial, anti

microbial and anti fungal properties. Neem leaf is used for leprosy, eyedisorders, bloody nose, intestinal worms, stomach upset, loss of appetite,skin ulcers, diseases of the heart and blood vessels, fever, diabetes, gumdisease (gingivitis), and liver problems. Helps in controlling dandruff andalso gives good shine to hair and prevent hair fall. Used to treat in any kindof skin diseases. The leaf is also used for birth control and to causeabortions.

42

NIGHT QUEENSCIENTIFIC NAME: Epiphyllum oxypetallum (DC) HaworthLOCAL NAME: Night QueenFAMILY: Cactaceae

DESCRIPTION:Epiphyllum oxypetalum is a species of cactus and one of the most

cultivated species in its genus. Stem flattened, green perfom the functionsof leaves. Flowers axillary, blooms early only at night and its flowers wiltbefore dawn. Flower large, showy, white and fragrant.

ECONOMIC IMPORTANCE:Basically, it is planted as an ornamental flowers in houses for

decorating purpose.

MEDICINAL VALUE:It is used homeopathy and recommended for urinary tract infections.

It is also used for treatment of bloody Phlegm and cough. It is also used foruterine bleeding and shortness of breath. It is also used to treat tuberculosisand heat by detoxification.

43

ORANGE JASMINE

SCIENTIFIC NAME: Murraya paniculata (L.) JackLOCAL NAME: Kamini KanchanFAMILY: Rutaceae

DESCRIPTION:Murraya paniculata is a species of evergreen shrub or small tree

and is native to South Asia. It has smooth bark, pinnate leaves with up toseven egg-shaped to elliptical leaflets. Flowers in terminal clusters, highlyfragrant, white or cream-coloured, and oval, orange-red berries containinghairy seeds. Flowering mainly during summer.

ECONOMIC IMPORTANCE:Murraya paniculata is cultivated as an ornamental tree or hedge

because of its hardiness, wide range of soil tolerance.The plant flowersthroughout the year and produces small, fragrant flower clusters whichattract bees, while the fruits attract small frugivorous birds.

MEDICINAL VALUE:M. paniculata leaves extract is orally used to alleviate pain. In India,

people sometimes used root bark of M. paniculata as remedy for coughs,hysteria and rheumatism. In the Philippines, leaves were also used to treatdiarrhea and dysentery because of their stimulant and astringent activities.

44

PUTRAJEEBASCIENTIFIC NAME: Putranjiva roxburghii Wall.LOCAL NAME: PutranjiviFAMILY: Putranjivaceae

DESCRIPTION: Putranjiva is a moderate-sized, evergreen tree, growing up to 12 m

in height. It has pendant branches and dark grey bark having horizontallenticels. Leaves are simple, alternately arranged, dark green, shiny, elliptic-oblong, distantly serrated. Male flowers, with short stalks, in roundedaxillary clusters, female flowers 1-3 in leaf axil. Fruits ellipsoid or rounded

drupes, white velvety;seed normally one,stone pointed,rugose, very hard.

ECONOMICIMPORTANCE:

The hard,white seeds of thefruit are threaded intonecklaces and alsoused for rosaries.Necklaces madefrom the seeds aretraditionally given tochildren as aprotection from

disease. An essential oil is obtained from the seed. The grey wood is close-grained, moderately hard. The wood is sometimes used for construction,turnery, tool handles.

MEDICINAL VALUE: It is used for the treatment, control, prevention and improvement of the

following diseases, conditions and symptoms: Infertility, Fever, Muscle twisting,Arthralgia, Rheumatism, Azoospermia, Catarrh, Constipation, Hemorrhoids.An olive-brown, fixed oil is obtained from the seed. It is used for burning.

45

PEEPAL TREESCIENTIFIC NAME: Ficus religiosa L.LOCAL NAME: Aahot, Peepal treeFAMILY: Moraceae

DESCRIPTION:Ficus religiosa is alarge dry season-deciduous or semi-evergreen tree up to30 m tall and with atrunk Diameter of upto 3 m. The leaves arecordate in shape witha distinctive extendeddrip tip. They aregenerally 10-17 cmlong and 8-12 cmbroad, with a 6-10 cmpetiole. F. religiosahas a very long life span, ranging on average between 900 and 1500 years.

ECONOMIC IMPORTANCE:Ficus religiosa Peepal is good avenue tree, it is used as fodder,

fuel, fruit, and has medicinal use. Protein concentration is found to behigh in peepal trees. Hence integration of peepal tree with agriculturalcrops could play an important role in meeting the fodder requirementsof animals. It also helps balancing the climatic conditions, control soilerosion, improvs soil structure and its fertility. It is also known as pollutionindicator.

MEDICINAL VALUE:Peepal tree has many medicinal uses such as- juice extracted from

the leaves is used for eardrops. The bark is used used to heal inflammationsof the neck and glandular swellings. Chewing the roots of a peepal tree issaid to help prevent gum disease. Its fruit is laxative which promotes digestionand checks vomiting.

46

PEACOCK FLOWER

SCIENTIFIC NAME: Caesalpinia pulcherrima (L.) Sw.LOCAL NAME: Peacock Flower, Indian red woodFAMILY: Caesalpiniaceae

DESCRIPTION:An evergreen, low branching and fast growing shrub that can grow

up to 10 m tall. Leaves pinnately compounds, pulvinous at the base, flowersshowy, variously coloured, fruit pod. It is commonly found in home garden,parks and other public places.

ECONOMIC IMPORTANCE:It is used as an ornamental flowers. Trees of Caesalpinia are used

for making violin bows. It is also used for making walking stick.

MEDICINAL VALUE:Parts of its plant are used for treatment of stomach. Flowers, seeds

etc., are used for treatment of urinary bladder and kidney problems.

47

ROSE APPLESCIENTIFIC NAME: Syzygium jambos L.LOCAL NAME: Boga jam; Duthie, Golapi JamuFAMILY: Myrtaceae

DESCRIPTION:A large to moderate size tree, 25-30m tall with pale grey compressed

branches. Leaves are alternate, sprial, petioles to 8.2-2cm long, broadlylanceolate elliptic or oblanceolate, acute attenuate at base, obtuselyacuminate at apex. Inflorescences branched or panicled cymes, cymessolitary or fascicled in leaf or fallen leaf axills. Flowers are white in branchedcyme. Fruit berry, crowned by spreading calyx limp.

ECONOMIC IMPORTANCE:They produces edible fruit. The essential oils are obtained by the

steam distillation of leaves. They are cultivated for their snowy nature in thegardens. Dried and powdered leaves of jamun have anti- bacterial propertiesand is used as a tooth power for strengthening teeth and gums.

MEDICINAL VALUE:Improve haemoglobin count. Loaded with vitamin C and iron. Jamun

has astringent property which keeps your skin acne free. Improves healthof skin and eyes. Keeps the heart healthy. Strengthens the gums and teeth.

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ROSE PLANTSCIENTIFIC NAME: Rosa centifolia L.LOCAL NAME: Golap, Boga GolapFAMILY: Rosaceae

DESCRIPTION:Tall shrubs arching

stems and bluish-green leaves;they bloom only in midsummer.They are extremely cold hardyand disease resistance; hencethey are used to create newvarieties for subarctic climateslike northern Scandinavia andCanada. These magnificentshrubs can withstand andsemi-shade and are easilyfound abandoned in semi wildsituation.

ECONOMICIMPORTANCE:

Grown as ornamentalplants in the garden and sometimes indoors. They also used commercialperfumery and commercial cut flowers. Used as landscape plants and forhedging. Roses are most popular cut flower worldwide. The rose has beensymbol of love, beautiful, even war, and politics. Rosaceae is the thirdlargest plant family in both world distribution and economic importance.

MEDICINAL VALUE:Rose petals are mildly sedative, antiseptic, anti-inflammatory and

anti-parasitic. They are also mild laxatives, tonic for the heart and for loweringcholesterol. The antiseptic nature of rose petals makes them a wonderfultreatment for wounds, incision and slope stabilization. Increase bile product,cleanser, expectorant, antibacterial, anti-fungal, kidney tonic, menstrualregulator. It acts as a natural aphrodisiac. It helps improving metabolism,oil control and glowing skin. Rose water is used as a skin tone dilator.

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RED SANDALWOODSCIENTIFIC NAME: Pterocarpus santalinus L. f.LOCAL NAME: Rakta ChandanFAMILY: Fabaceae

DESCRIPTION:Red sandalwood is a

native and endemic to India andcan only be found in the southernparts of the Easter ghats. It is asmall tree that grows to 5-8meters in height and has a darkgrayish bark. This tree is valuedfor the rich red colour of it’swood. The hard durable timberof this tree that is much prizedfor cabinetwork. Leaves arealternate, 3-9 cm long, trifoliatewith three leaflets. Flowers inshort raceme.

ECONOMICIMPORTANCE:

In manufacturing, redsandalwood is used as flavoringin alcoholic beverages. It is used as a stain in light microscope. It’s alsoused as a coloring agent in pharmaceutical preparation, in food, and textileindustries and as a textile dye. Red sandal wood is used in making naturalbeauty products which can be used in everyday life

MEDICINAL VALUE:The wood at the centre of the trunk (heart wood) is used as a

medicine. Red sandalwood is used for treating digestive tract problems,fluid retention and cough. It is also used for blood purification. Redsandalwood is one of the finest ingredients for our skin. It also helps in theremoval of dark spots. It is known for antipyretic, anti-inflamatory,anthelmintic, tonic and aphrodisiac properties.

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ROYAL POINCIANASCIENTIFIC NAME: Delonix regia (Boj. ex. Hook) Raf.LOCAL NAME: Krishnachura, Gul-moharFAMILY: Fabaceae

DESCRIPTION:Gulmohar is a

flam-buoyant tree inflower, a medium tolarge sized deciduoustree, spreading dome -shaped crown. Leavesare bipinnate andleaflets are small andmany. Flowering time isfrom April to June.Flowers are red,showy in terminalcorymbs, fruiting occurbetween August and October. Pods are 30-61cm long, fleshy and becomeblack when dry.

ECONOMIC IMPORTANCE:It is planted extensively mainly in garden and roadside as avenue

tree for its graceful foliage and beautiful flowers.The wood employed locallyfor agricultural implements, handles for carpentry tools, combs etc. Principleuse as fuel. Tree is mainly valuable for seeds yield 18-27% fatty oils knownas “Pangam”. It’s main use tanning industry.

MEDICINAL VALUE:The extract of Delonix regia is known to have medicinal properties

and used in several countries to prepare extract with antimicrobial andantifungal activities. Delonix regia with an impressive range of medicinalproperties, has been used in the folk medicine system of several civilization.It is used for the treatment of constipation, inflammation, arthritis, hemiplegia,leucorrhoea and rheumatism. Flowers were used in dysmenorrhoea asantibacterial, analgesic, broad spectrum, anti-inflammatory.

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SOUTHERN BLUE GUMSCIENTIFIC NAME: Eucalyptus globulus Labill.LOCAL NAME: Nilgiri, Gum tree, EucalyptusFAMILY: Myrtaceae

DESCRIPTION:Eucalyptus glob-

ulus is a introduced, exotictall, evergreen tree upto 45m height. It has mostlysmooth bark, juvenileleaves that are whitish andwaxy on the lowersurface, glossy green,lance shaped adult leaves,glacuous, ribbed flowerbuds arranged singly or ingroups of three or sevenin leaf axills, white flowersand woody fruit.

ECONOMICIMPORTANCE:

It gives a good fuelwood having calorificvalue of 4962 kcal/kg. Thecharcoal may be used forproducer gas plants inpigments, fireworks,gunpowder etc. The wood yields a brownish pulp useful in manufacture ofwrapping paper and cardboard.

MEDICINAL VALUE:It is used to reduce symptoms of coughs, cold and congestion. It

also features in creams and ointments aimed at relieving muscle and jointpain. It is used as natural cold remedy. It is source of eucalyptus oil havinginsecticidal activity and medicinal property.

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SILVER OAKSCIENTIFIC NAME: Grevillea robusta A. Cunnex R. BrLOCAL NAME: Silver oakFAMILY: Proteaceae

DESCRIPTION:Grevillea robusta is a

fast-growing exotic evergreentree with a single main trunk,growing to 5 - 40 m tall. Thebark is dark grey andfurrowed. Its leaves are fern-like, 10-34 x 9-15 cm in sizeand divided with between 11and 31 main lobes. It losesmany of its leaves just beforeflowering. The flowers arearranged in one-sided,“toothbrush”-like groups,sometimes branched, 12-15cm long. The flowers areglabrous and mostly yellowishorange to reddish. Floweringoccurs during September toNovember.

ECONOMICIMPORTANCE:

Before the advent of aluminium, Grevillea robusta timber was widelyused for external window joinery, as it is resistant to wood rot. G. robustahas been used for side and back woods on guitars made by Larrivée andothers, because of its tonal and aesthetic qualities.

MEDICINAL VALUE:This plant is used to treat sore throats, earache, chest problems, flu

and toothache. In North Garo Hills, Meghalaya, NE India, bark and leavesused for headaches and dizziness.

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SPANISH CHERRYSCIENTIFIC NAME: Mimusops elengi L.COMMON NAME: BakulFAMILY: Sapotaceae

DESCRIPTION:M i m u s o p s

elengi is a evergreennative tree attaining aheight upto 18m. Barkthick, grayish blackwith striations. Leavesglossy, dark green,oval shaped, 5-14 x2.5-6 cm in size.Flowers axillary,small, star shaped,cream coloured, hairy,about 1 cm in size,highly fragrant.Flowering duringsummer. Fragrance ofthe flower retained for many days even after fall. Fruit elliptical and edible.

ECONOMIC IMPORTANCE:It named as Vakula in Indian mythology and planted in front of

religious temples and shrines. Flowers uses for decorating purpose. Flowersare used to make garland. It’s floral scents are used for fragrance making.

MEDICINAL USES:The roots are used as diuretic, astringent, cardiotonic and stomachic.

Flowers are used as an expectorant and in liver complaints and asthma.Mimusops elengi bark showed antiulcer activity. It is also used to preparelotion for wounds and ulcers; dried powder is a brain tonic and is useful torelieve cephalagia. young twigs are used as tooth brush in villages. Decoctionof bark with water solution used to rinsing mouth to strengthen teeth and toremove bad breath.

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SANDAL WOODSCIENTIFIC NAME: Santalum album L.LOCAL NAME: Indian sandal woodFAMILY: Santalaceae

DESCRIPTION:Santalum album,

commonly known as Indiansandalwood, is a dry deciduousforest species native to China,India, Indonesia, Australia, andthe Philippines. This smalltropical tree grows to 20m highwith red wood and a variety ofdark colors of bark (darkBrown, reddish and dark Grey).It is a semi root parasite. theleaves thin, opposite and ovateto lanceolate. Heart wood is palegreen to white.

ECONOMICIMPORTANCE:

The fragrant heartwood foundin stem and the root is the mostecomically important part of thetree. The wood is converted intochips and stem- distilled to produce oil. It is preferred over other regionsfor the preparation of perfume and cosmetics.

MEDICINAL VALUE:Both the wood and oil are used in medicine. Sandalwood oil has

been used in folk medicine for treatment of common colds, bronchitis,skin disorders. It’s also used as folk medicine for treatment of heartailments, general weakness, fever, infection of the urinary tract,inflammation of the mouth and pharynx, liver and gall bladdar complaintsand many more.

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TROPICAL DOG WOOD

SCIENTIFIC NAME: Musanda erythrophylla Schumach. & ThornLOCAL NAME: Tropical dog wood, MussandaFAMILY: Rubiaceae

DESCRIPTION:Native to tropical Africa, Asia and the Pacific Islands, a semi erect

shrub. The actual color that we see from far are not flowers. In Musanda,the bracts may have different shades in red, white, pale pink and somemixture. In natural habitat the shrub may attain up to 10m height but is keptcompact under cultivation. The star like flowers of the shrubs is 10 mm indiameter and has single modified sepals.

ECONOMIC IMPORTANCE:Musanda is an evergreen shrub plant. The plant is gathered from the

wild for its edible leaves and medicinal uses. It is also cultivated as anornamental purpose. The caterpillar of commander, a brush footed butterfly,utilize this species as a food plant.

MEDICINAL VALUE:The decoction of the root is used to cure leprosy. Decoction of leave

mixed with milk is given to cure jaundice. Decoction of flower is given totreatment of asthma, intermittent fever and Oedoma. The paste of the flowerand leaves may be applied cure ulcers. The juice is also used to treatblemishes on the tongue. Important source of medicinal products such assteroids, flavonoids, glycosides and only a few numbers of species reportedpositive alkaloids and tannin.

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TEA PLANT

SCIENTIFIC NAME: Camellia sinensis (L.) Kuntze.LOCAL NAME: Chah paat (Tea plant)FAMILY: Theaceae

DESCRIPTION:Tea is a native under tree or shrub grown for its leaves which are

used to make beverages. The tea plant is branching with alternate ellipticalleaves. The leaves are leathery in texture, matte green in colour and haveserrated edges. Flowers axillary, solitary, yellow about 3 cm in size.

ECONOMIC IMPORTANCE:Tea is an important beverage having stimulative effect. Caffeine

present in young leaves is a heart stimulant. Tea plays vital role in the economyof the state contributing about 15% of the state’s total income. Along withthe organized sector, the proliferation of small tea cultivation in Assam hascreated vast employment opportunities in the rural areas giving economicimpetus as well as employment generation.

MEDICINAL VALUE:Tea protects the liver from the damaging effects of toxic substances

such as alcohol. The tea plant is effective in lowering the blood sugar levels.It prevents strep throat and influenza when used as a mouthwash. It hasless caffeine than coffee; it refreshes the body particularly the central nervoussystem, skeletal muscles, heart and liver.

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TURMERICSCIENTIFIC NAME: Curcuma longa L.LOCAL NAME: Halodhi, TurmericFAMILY: Zingiberaceae

DESCRIPTION:Turmeric is a perennial, rhizomatous, herbaceous plant that reaches

up to 1 m tall. Highly branched, yellow to orange, cylindrical, aromaticrhizomes are found. The leaves are alternate and arranged in two rows.They are divided into leaf sheath, petiole, and leaf blade. From the leafsheaths, a false stem is formed.

ECONOMICIMPORTANCE:It is a common ingredient of Indian curry and other food preparations

particularly in south Indian cooking.The rhizomes are used fresh or boiledin water and dried, after which they are ground into a deep orange-yellowpowder commonly used as a coloring and flavoring agent in many Asiancuisines, especially for curries, as well as for dyeing.

MEDICINAL USE:Turmeric is widely used in dye, drug and cosmetic industries. It is

used as an herbalmedicine forr h e u m a t o i d ,arthritis, chronicanterior uveitis,conjunctivitis, skincancer, chickenpox, woundhealing, urinarytract infections, andliver ailments. InAsia turmeric wateris applied as acosmetic to lend a golden glow to the complexion. It has anti-inflammatoryproperties. Turmeric is sometimes consumed as a tea or in pill form for avariety of ailments, including arthritis and intestinal problems.

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TAMARINDSCIENTIFIC NAME: Tamarindus indica L.LOCAL NAME: TeteliFAMILY: Fabaceae

DESCRIPTION:Tamarind is a long

lived, medium growthleguminous tree bearingedible fruit that isindigenous to tropicalAfrica. Leaves alternateand pinnately lobed.Flower with faint redyellow colour, about 2 cmsize.The tamarind treeproduces brown pod likefruits that contain a sweet,tangy pulp which is usedin business around theworld.

ECONOMICIMPORTANCE:

Tamarind fruits are made into sauces, syrups, jellies and jams. Pulpis used in traditional medicine and as metal polish. The wood from this treeis generally strong, insect resistant and durable, making it ideal for furnitureand the making of tools.

MEDICINAL VALUE:People take tamarind for stomach disorders, constipation, liver and

gallbladder problems. It is also used to treat colds and fever. It’s seeds areused as a cast for broken bones. An extract of tamarind seeds is used ineye drops for dry eyes. Pulp is also used to lower cholesterol. Leavesextract used in fever. Fruit pulp and skin extract have high phenolic contentand antioxidant properties.

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WHITE CEDERSCIENTIFIC NAME: Thuja occidentalis L.LOCAL NAME: White cedarFAMILY: Cupressaceae

DESCRIPTION:Thuja occidentalis is a small or medium-sized Gymnospermic tree,

growing to a height of 15 m tall. The tree is often stunted or prostrate in lessfavorable locations. The bark is red-brown, furrowed and peels in narrow,longitudinal strips. Northern white cedar has fan-like branches and scalyleaves. The foliage forms in flat sprays with scale-like leaves 3-5 mm long.The seed cones are slender, yellow-green, ripening to brown, 9-14 mmlong and 4-5 mm broad, with 6-8 overlapping scales.

ECONOMIC IMPORTANCE:Thuja is mainly planted as ornamental plants in gardens, roadside

and landscapes. In foods and beverages, thuja is used as a flavoring agent.In manufacturing, thuja is used as a fragrance in cosmetics and soaps.

MEDICINAL VALUE:The leaves and leaf oil have been traditionally used as medicine.

Thuja is used for respiratory tract infections such as bronchitis, bacterialskin infections, and cold sores. It is also used for painful conditions includingosteoarthritis and a nerve disorder that affects the face called trigeminalneuralgia. In folk medicine, Thuja has been used to treat bronchial catarrh,enuresis, cystitis,psoriasis, uterineca rc inomas ,amenorrhea andrheumat ism.Today, it ismainly used inhomeopathy asmother tinctureor dilution.

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YELLOW OLEANDER

SCIENTIC NAME: Thevetia peruviana (Pers.) K. Schum.LOCAL NAME: Yellow oleanderFAMILY: Apocynaceae

DESCRIPTION:Cascabela thevetia is an evergreen tropical shrub or small tree. Its

leaves are willow-like, linear-lanceolate, and glossy green in color. Theyare covered in waxy coating to reduce water loss. Its stem is green turningsilver or gray as it ages. Flowers long funnel-shaped sometimes-fragrant yellowin few-flowered terminal clusters. Its fruit is deep red-black in color encasinga large seed that bears some resemblance to a ‘Chinese lucky nut.

ECONOMIC IMPORTANCE:Thevetia peruviana is widely grown as a garden ornamental. It is

also used medicinally to some extent, though it is also known to be verypoisonous. This uses cannot compensate for this plant’s overall negativeimpacts. Flowers used in religious ceremonies.

MEDICINAL VALUE:Yellow Oleander is used for heart conditions, asthma, epilepsy, cancer,

painful menstrual periods, leprosy, malaria, ringworm, indigestion, and venerealdisease; and to cause abortions. A fixed combination of oleander leafpowdered extract, pheasant’s eye fluid extract, lily-of-the-valley fluid extract,and squill powdered extract has been used for treating mild heart failure.Oleander is sometimes applied to the skin to treat skin problems and warts.

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YELLOW FLAME TREESCIENTIFIC NAME: Peltophorum pterocarpum (DC) K. HeyneLOCAL NAME: KanakchuraFAMILY: Fabaceae

DESCRIPTION:It is a deciduous tree

growing to 15-25 m (rarely up to50 m) tall, with a trunk diameter ofup to 1 m belonging to FamilyLeguminosae and sub-familyCaesalpiniaceaea. The leaves arebipinnate, 30-60 cm long, with 16-20 pinnae, each pinna with 20-40oval leaflets 8-25 mm long and 4-10 mm broad. The flowers areyellow, 2.5-4 cm diameter,produced in large compoundraceme up to 20 cm long.

ECONOMICIMPORTANCE:

Commonly used asornamental plants in gardens, parksand road-sides because of itsshowy fragrant yellow flowerswhich contrast with the reddish-brown pods, and its umbrella-shaped crown. It is also used as a shade treein cacao and coffee plantations. The leaves, which are rich in protein, areused as cattle feed. The wood is used for carpentry of light constructionpurposes, such as cabinet making, sawn or hewn timbers, wood ware andwoodcarving. The flowers are used as cut flowers.

MEDICINAL VALUE:Medicinally, this tree has medicinal values such as relieve in pains

and sores and also used for tooth powder and eye lotions. The bark canalso be used as dyes as it contains tannins, giving a light yellow color toleather.

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