What is National tree of india?

National tree of india

Banyan trees are one of the largest trees in the world and grow up to 20-25 m, with branches spreading up to 100 m. The banyan tree is recognised as the national tree, and it is one of the symbols of pride that is integral to the nation’s identity. The Indian fig tree, also known as the Banyan tree (Ficus bengalensis), is the National tree of India.

The tree is revered as sacred in Hindu philosophy. This tree is considered immortal and is an integral part of the myths and legends of India. According to Buddhist beliefs, Gautam Buddha attained Bodhi by meditating under a banyan tree, and the tree thus holds tremendous religious significance in Buddhism as well. The banyan tree is called kalpavriksha, meaning ‘wish-fulfilling divine tree’. Banyan Tree is also known as Aalamaram Tree. Many Indian villages used this tree to have public meetings and meetings of the village council.

The largest banyan tree in India resides at the Indian Botanical Garden in Shibpur, Howrah in West Bengal. It is around 25 m tall, and the canopy cover is around 420 m with over 2000 aerial roots. They are also used to soothe skin irritations and alleviate the swelling. The bark and leaf extracts are used to arrest bleeding. Infusion of the leaf buds is used to treat chronic diarrhoea/dysentery. The milk sap is used to polish metals such as brass or copper.