Description
Monoon longifolium, the false Ashoka, also commonly known by its synonym Polyalthia longifolia, is an Asian small tree species in the family Annonaceae. It is native to southern India and Sri Lanka, but has been widely introduced elsewhere in tropical Asia.
This evergreen tree is known to grow over 20 m. in height and is commonly planted due to its effectiveness in alleviating noise pollution. It exhibits symmetrical pyramidal growth with willowy weeping pendulous branches and long narrow lanceolate leaves with undulate margins.
Seed Specifications
*above specification are indicative only. actual dimensions may vary by +-10%
| Common Name | False Ashoka, the Buddha Tree, Indian mast tree, and Indian Fir tree |
| Maximum Reachable Height | 20-25 feet |
| Bloom Time | The flowers are inconspicuous. |
| Difficulty Level | Easy to medium |
Planting And Care :
Begin caring for a Ashoka tree by planting it correctly.Start your seeds in slightly shaded area 4 to 8 weeks before you plan on transferring them to your open outdoor garden. Place the tree in a hole that is at least twice as large as its root ball, and use soil that has been combined with light, organic mulch.Before the tree is placed in the hole, the roots need to be loosened.After the tree is in the hole, the hole needs to be filled with the soil and mulch mixture.The tree must be watered well after transplantation.Mulch the area around the tree, but make sure the mulch does not touch the trunk.To keep the tree standing straight, tie it to a sturdy stake that has been inserted into the ground.
Ashoka tree care:
| Sunlight | At least 5-6 hours of preferably morning sunlight a day is ideal for plant to grow well and natural indirect bright light for the rest of the day. |
| Watering | Before water poke your finger/plain small stick into the soil to check the moisture. Water when top soil (1-2 inches) feels dry to touch. Water thoroughly in the summer and reduce watering in winter and rainy season. |
| Soil | The soil should be well drained and fertile, rich in organic content for growing plant. Grow well in pH range of 5.5 to 7 |
| Temperature | 20 to 35 degree C
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| Fertilizer | During the main growing season (June-July) feed the plant with organic fertilizer. |
Polyalthia longifolia uses
- The leaves are used for ornamental decoration during festivals.
- The tree is a focal point in gardens throughout India.
- Today, its wood is mostly used for manufacturing small articles such as pencils, boxes, matchsticks, etc.
