Discover the Pongamia pinnata, an exotic Indian Beech Tree that holds numerous credentials. This incredibly durable legume tree can grow up to 25 meters in height with an equally wide canopy. Its sturdy trunk is covered with a distinctive grey-brown bark and the imparipinnate leaves of the tree are glossy green with pronounced veins.
The tree blooms in clusters of white, purple, and pink flowers, bringing fragrant blossoms throughout the year. It produces sturdy, brown seed pods around 4-6 years of age which house one to two brownish-red, bean-like seeds - a vital part of its reproduction as these seeds need to decompose before they can germinate.
Notably, the Pongamia pinnata is an incredibly hardy tree, naturally found in tropical and temperate environments and able to withstand temperatures from 0 to 50°C and up to 2,500mm of annual rainfall. Its deep roots help it to survive in arid zones and help prevent soil erosion.
The Pongamia pinnata has plenty of uses, from decorating the landscapes to composting gardens due to their fragrant flowers. Furthermore, its wood and bark are useful to make ropes and the black gum yielded has been used historically to treat wounds caused by poisonous fish.
Many gardeners appreciate its easy adaptability, making it an excellent choice for landscaping in a variety of climates. The seeds of this incredible tree are rich in oil, making it a popular choice for biofuel production in areas like India and Bangladesh. Moreover, the plant supports the socioeconomic development of such areas. Besides serving as fuel, the protein-rich byproduct of the seeds can provide a dietary source of protein for humans and animals.
Explore the versatility of the Pongamia pinnata, an exotic tree with exceptional attributes.
