Family - Dipterocarpaceae
Synonym - Echinodiscus echinatus, Lingoum echinatum , Lingoum indicum , Malaparius flavus, Pterocarpus blancoi
Vernacular names - Arayangili, Kalpayin, Kakka, Karanjili, Vavangu, Vella-ayani
Habit - Tree
Habitat - Evergreen and semi-evergreen forests
Distribution - Western Ghats (Endemic)
Flowering and Fruiting - February-July
Key Identification Feature - These tall trees maintain their green foliage year-round, unlike deciduous trees that shed leaves during winter. With straight boles and tomentose branchlets, they stand resilient in various climates. Their ovate leaves, measuring 7-25 cm long, have crenate margins and parallel lateral nerves. Fragrant white flowers cluster in axillary racemes, while the reddish-brown nut fruits bear oblong wings. These evergreens are a testament to nature’s enduring beauty and adaptability .
Uses - It is also known as the Malabar ironwood, provides valuable timber used in plywood production, house construction, shipbuilding, and railway carriages. Additionally, the tree produces oleoresin, which finds applications in varnishes, inks, and traditional remedies.
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