False Ashoka
Polyalthia longifolia (Sonn.) Thwaites
Synonym: Monoon longifolium
Location
Footpath
Family
Annonaceae
Common names
False Ashoka, Indian Mast Tree, Buddha Tree
Native range
Sri Lanka and southern India
Habitat
Tropical and subtropical regions
Flowering
February – April
Fruiting
May – August
Conservation status
Not Evaluated (NE)
About this plant
Polyalthia longifolia is a tall, slender, evergreen tree growing up to 15–25 meters in height with a straight trunk and a narrow, columnar crown. Leaves are long, narrow, lance-shaped, glossy dark green with distinctly wavy (undulate) margins and drooping appearance. Young leaves are light green to coppery. Flowers are small, greenish-yellow, fragrant, borne in clusters; pollinated mainly by insects. Fruits are small, oval to ellipsoid drupes, green turning black when ripe, occurring in clusters and containing a single seed.
Uses
The tree is widely planted for ornamental and avenue purposes due to its elegant shape and dense foliage. It is traditionally grown near temples and institutions for its association with calmness and spirituality. In traditional medicine, bark and leaves are used for treating fever, skin diseases, diabetes, and hypertension. Extracts possess antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties.
Growing conditions
Prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained loamy soils. It grows well in tropical climates, tolerates pruning, moderate drought, and urban pollution, making it suitable for landscaping, windbreaks, and noise reduction
Habit
Tall evergreen tree