Description
A multipurpose tree that is very important to the local economy, supplying a range of foods, medicines and other commodities.
A deciduous tree, 10-15m tall and with a spreading, dense, round, shady canopy. The bark is rough, brown in color, slightly cracked and fissured, inner bark red, exudes white, milky sap when cut. Flowers in bunches at the end of the branches, white, 2cm long, pointed, sweet-scented, fleshy.
Fruits ovoid, fleshy, 2-4cm across, greenish, 1-4 seeded. Seeds elongate, 2 cm long, brown shining.Plant Specifications
| Plant Height | 25 inch (63.5 cm) |
| Plant Spread | 5 inch (13 cm) |
| Common Name | Madhuka, Ippe, Yappa, Mahuda, Mahua, Mohwa, Mauwa, Hippe, Ponnam, Ilupa, Mahwa, Mohwra, Mahula, Moha, Madgi, Illupei, elupa, Mahwa, Maul, Mahula, Butter tree |
| Maximum Reachable Height | Up to 15.00 feet |
| Flower Colour | White |
| Bloom Time | Seasonal bloomer |
| Difficulty Level | Easy to grow |
Planting and care
Madhuca indica care
It is cultivated in warm and humid regions for its oleaginous seeds, flowers, and wood. The tree grows on a wide variety of soils but thrives best on sandy soil. The species is drought-resistant, strong light demander and readily suppressed under shade. It is not frost-hardy. It also grows on shallow, bouldery, clayey and calcareous soils.
| Sunlight | Full sun to part shade |
| Watering | Medium |
| Soil | well-drained soil |
| Temperature | 25 to 35 degree C |
| Fertilizer | Apply any organic fertilizer. |
Madhuca indica uses
Medicinal Use:
- The bark is used medicinally in the treatment of leprosy
- The oil from the seeds is used in the treatment of skin diseases
- Note: Use only after consulting the specialist