Is Angsana Tree a Flowering Plant?

The Angsana tree, also known as the golden shower tree or Cassia fistula, is a beautiful tree with golden-yellow flowers that bloom profusely in the tropics. It grows up to 15 meters tall and has a shady crown that can span up to 10 meters wide. It is a common sight in Southeast Asia and is widely cultivated for its ornamental value, medicinal properties, and use in traditional folklore.

Overview of Angsana Tree

The Angsana tree belongs to the family Fabaceae, which is also known as the pea, bean, or legume family. It is native to South Asia and is found in many countries, including India, Thailand, Malaysia, and Indonesia. The tree is deciduous and sheds its leaves in the dry season, usually in winter or early spring. Its leaves are pinnate, with 10-20 pairs of leaflets that are bright green and glossy.

The tree also has a special adaptation to drought, with deep roots that can reach up to 10 meters underground to tap into the groundwater. This makes it a popular choice for landscaping in arid regions, where it can thrive with little watering.

Flowers and Fruits of Angsana Tree

The Angsana tree is known for its showy flowers that bloom in large clusters. The flowers are large, cup-shaped, and can be up to 5 cm in diameter. They have bright yellow petals with red or orange streaks, and a distinctive fragrance that attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. The tree usually produces blooms in the late dry season, around February to April, just before the new leaves emerge.

After pollination, the flowers give rise to long, cylindrical pods that can grow up to 60 cm long. The pods are brown, woody, and contain many seeds. These seeds are not edible, but can be used to make jewelry, crafts, or even musical instruments.

Medicinal Uses of Angsana Tree

The Angsana tree has been used for centuries in traditional medicine to treat various ailments. Its bark, leaves, flowers, and seeds all have different medicinal properties. The bark and leaves are a powerful laxative and are used to relieve constipation, while the flowers are a diuretic and can help with kidney problems. The seeds have antibacterial and antifungal properties and can be used to treat skin infections.

Some studies have also shown that extracts from the Angsana tree have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anticancer activities. These findings suggest that the tree has great potential as a source of new drugs or supplements.

Cultivation and Conservation of Angsana Tree

The Angsana tree is easy to grow and can be propagated from seeds or cuttings. It prefers a sunny location and well-drained soil, but can tolerate some shade and moist conditions. It grows best in tropical or subtropical regions that have a dry season, but can also survive in humid or temperate climates with some protection from frost.

The tree is also an important part of many cultures and traditions. In Thailand, for example, it is the national tree and is often planted in temples, parks, and public spaces. It is also featured in many folktales and songs, and is considered a symbol of happiness and prosperity.

However, despite its popularity and cultural significance, the Angsana tree is under threat from habitat loss, urbanization, and climate change. Many of its natural habitats are being cleared for agriculture, mining, or construction, and its seeds and wood are also harvested for commercial purposes. Therefore, efforts should be made to conserve and protect this beautiful and valuable tree for future generations.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Angsana tree is a fascinating and versatile plant that has many uses and benefits. It is indeed a flowering plant, with gorgeous yellow blooms that bring joy and beauty to the surroundings. It is also a source of traditional medicine, jewelry, and crafts. Moreover, it plays a vital role in the ecosystem and cultural heritage of many countries. Therefore, we should appreciate and cherish this wonderful tree, and take action to ensure its survival and prosperity.