આસોપાલવ

Polyalthia longifolia Monoon longifolium

Mast tree

Native

Commonly known as Mast-Tree, False Ashok, Asopalav.

The tall, elegant, drooping-branched tree you see lining avenues and temple compounds across India, chosen as much for its shape as anything else. Its glossy, wavy-edged leaves are traditionally strung into toran (door garlands) for auspicious occasions.

The plant

Habit Tree

Origin Native

Flowering Summer

Edible No, To be verified

Growing it

Sow July–August

Started from Seed

Life it supports

No specific wildlife-relationship data recorded for this species.

The story

Held in high regard by Hindus, often planted near temples, though Ayurveda notes its qualities are considered quite different from the true Ashoka tree despite superficial similarity.

What it is used for

Historically its straight, tall stem was used for ship masts.
The bark is a fever-reducer and has been used as a substitute for Ashoka bark; an aqueous extract of it stimulates intestinal and uterine tissue, lowers blood pressure, and affects heart rate and breathing.
The fruit is edible in times of scarcity.

These uses are documented for information only and are not medical advice. Always verify the species and the plant part before use.

Where it is found

Native to arid regions of Sri Lanka; widely grown in parks and avenues across India.

Sources

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