Mesua ferrea, commonly known as Cobra Saffron, is a slow-growing, evergreen tree native to the wet, tropical regions of Sri Lanka, India, southern Nepal, Burma, Thailand, Indochina, the Philippines, Malaysia, and Sumatra. It thrives in evergreen forests, particularly in river valleys. The tree can reach heights of over 30 meters, with a straight trunk often buttressed at the base and a dark ash-grey bark with a red-brown blaze.
The tree features simple, opposite, narrow, oblong to lanceolate leaves that are blue-grey to dark green, with a whitish underside. The young leaves emerge red to yellowish-pink and droop gracefully. The tree produces large, fragrant white flowers with numerous orange-yellow stamens, followed by ovoid to globose capsules containing one to two seeds. The Cobra Saffron tree is a valuable species, providing a source of food and shelter for various wildlife, while its timber and medicinal properties make it an important resource for local communities.
Habitat
Mesua ferrea is native to the wet, tropical regions of Sri Lanka, India, southern Nepal, Burma, Thailand, Indochina, the Philippines, Malaysia, and Sumatra.
Planting and Care
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Propagation Methods: Can be propagated from seeds or cuttings.
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Soil Preference: Prefers well-drained, fertile soil and full sunlight.
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Soil Tolerance: Tolerates a range of soil types, including clay and loam.
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Drought Tolerance: Requires regular watering, especially during the establishment phase.
Additional Information
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Wildlife Significance: The fragrant white flowers attract various pollinators, and the seeds provide food for some bird species.
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Economic Significance: The tree produces one of the hardest and heaviest commercial timbers, used in construction, furniture making, and railway sleepers. It is also used in traditional medicine for its anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties. The tree holds significant cultural importance, being the national tree of Sri Lanka and the state tree of Mizoram, India, as well as the state flower of Tripura, India.
