Metro Plus
Bangalore
Chennai
Coimbatore
Delhi
Hyderabad
Kochi
The yellow flame tree
|
The yellow flamboyant tree is found in large numbers in our city, with a spectacular display of brilliant blossoms.
|
PELTOPHORUM PTEROCARPUM, as it is known to botanists in Chennai, is a native of tropical Asia. The tree, also referred to as the copper pod tree, yellow gulmohur, yellow flamboyant and the rusty shield bearer, is found in large numbers in our city, with a spectacular display of brilliant yellow blossoms. The flowering season commences at the end of February and reaches its peak in the middle of April. The canary-yellow flowers, with strangely crinkled petals, clustered on upright stalks at the end of branches, present a breath-taking view in summer. While still fresh, they fall off the trees and are strewn on the ground, forming a radiant carpet of bright gold.
The large pods are conspicuous as they remain on the tree... till the next flowering season. In colour, the pods are a rich vintage copper or rusty brown gold and hence the name `copper pod.' In the heart of Chennai, where the Women's Christian College is located, one can lose count of these trees, as they number more than 50, some of them gnarled with age. No wonder WCCites have chosen the copper pod tree as their `college tree.'
The bark is used in various preparations as a tonic or an astringent to cure or relieve liver and intestinal disorders, sprains, bruises and swellings or as a lotion for eye infections, muscular pains and sores.
The root, on the other hand, is used in sickness during pregnancy, to arrest heavy bleeding during child birth and also, in treating tuberculosis.
The copper pods are planted in areas close to thermal power plants and cement factories as they are efficient in trapping dust and other suspended particulates.
These trees being excellent shade providers are home to many birds and animals such as golden orioles, coppersmith barbers, spotted doves, mynas, squirrels, bats and lizards. The pollen and nectar attract bees and insects in turn attract insectivorous birds. However, Peltophorum pterocarpum pollen is a potent aeroallergen causing allergic disorders in sensitive patients.
The fiery blossoms on these trees are indeed a sight to behold and can leave us, the residents of Chennai, awestruck.
PAULINE DEBORAH & RIDLING WALLER
Printer friendly
page
Send this article to Friends by
E-Mail
Metro Plus
Bangalore
Chennai
Coimbatore
Delhi
Hyderabad
Kochi
|
