Terminalia arjuna, commonly known as Arjuna or Arjun tree, is a large deciduous tree that can grow up to 20-25 meters tall. It has a buttressed trunk and a wide canopy with drooping branches, while the leaves are oblong and conical, green on the top and brown below. The bark is smooth and grey, and the tree produces pale yellow flowers. The fruit is a fibrous woody drupe with five wings. Native to the Indian subcontinent, the tree is commonly found along riverbanks and dry riverbeds in regions such as Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, West Bengal, Odisha, and other parts of South and Central India.
The Arjuna tree’s ecological significance extends beyond its physical characteristics, as it provides a valuable source of food and habitat for various wildlife species, including insects, birds, and mammals.
Habitat
Terminalia arjuna is native to the Indian subcontinent and is commonly found along riverbanks and dry riverbeds in regions such as Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, West Bengal, Odisha, and other parts of South and Central India.
Planting and Care
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Propagation: Propagated through seeds, which should be soaked in warm water for 24 hours before sowing to enhance germination.
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Soil Type: Prefers well-drained loamy to sandy loam soil with a pH of 6.0-7.0.
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Watering: Requires minimal watering once established, as it is drought-tolerant.
Additional Information
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Economical Values: Produces durable timber used in construction, furniture, and agricultural tools.
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Medicinal Use: Used in traditional medicine for treating various ailments such as heart conditions, fever, and digestive issues.
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Gum Production: The tree produces Indian gum, also known as ghatti gum, used in calico printing and other industrial applications.
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Silk Production: Leaves are fed on by the Antheraea paphia moth, which produces Tussah silk, a commercially valuable wild silk.
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Wildlife Significance: The flowers attract various pollinators, including bees and butterflies. Birds are drawn to the tree for its nectar-rich flowers and may also feed on insects found on the tree. The tree serves as a host plant for the larvae of certain moth species, including the Antheraea paphia moth.
