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Owner's pride
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Lagerstroemia is not just an ornamental tree; it has several medicinal uses
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Attractive flowers in purple and pink make Lagerstroemia truly the Pride of India
LAGERSTROEMIA IS a tropical, woody ornamental tree with attractive flowers in purple and pink. It is also known as Crepe Myrtle, Queen's Flower, Pride of India and the Indian Lilac.
The tree was named Lagerstroemia in 1759 by Carl Linnaeus, in honour of his friend Magnus von Lagerstroem, an avid naturalist.
The flowers of L. reginae and L. indica, found in Chennai are impressive and borne in large upright spike-like clusters. The ruffled and crumpled petals of the flowers resemble the crepe fabric and hence the name `Crepe Myrtle.' The dry, black fruits are persistent on the trees till the next flowering season.
An interesting feature of the tree is that the bark exfoliates in thin flakes and is extensively used to treat diarrhoea and dysentery. The red-orange leaves prior to shedding is known to possess high levels of a phytochemical, corosolic acid - triterpenoid glycoside which is used against diabetes mellitus. The roots are astringent and cure stomach disorders.
The timber, next only to teak, is salt tolerant and hence, used in making boats, wharf posts, casks and in panelling.
PAULINE DEBORAH & RIDLING WALLER
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