Uttar Pradesh State Flower Palash (Butea monosperma): Tesoo

India, with its diverse topography and climate, is home to a wide range of flora, each species carrying cultural, medicinal, and ecological significance. Among the native flowering trees, Palash (Butea monosperma) holds a place of honor as the state flower of Jharkhand and Uttar Pradesh. Commonly referred to as the “Flame of the Forest”, Palash is admired for its striking orange-red blossoms and the folklore, rituals, and ecological benefits associated with it.

Scientific Classification

• Common Names: Palash, Flame of the Forest, Dhak, Tesu, Bastard Teak
• Botanical Name: Butea monosperma
• Family: Fabaceae (Pea family)
• Genus: Butea
• Species: monosperma

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Botanical Description

Palash is a medium-sized deciduous tree, typically growing up to 15 meters (50 feet) in height. The tree has a crooked trunk with irregular branches and rough, greyish bark. It is primarily found in tropical and subtropical regions of India and thrives in dry deciduous forests.

Leaves

• Tripinnate leaves with three leathery leaflets
• Dark green in color
• Shed during winter, just before flowering season

Flowers

• Bright orange-red, flame-like flowers bloom from February to April
• Flowers appear in clusters on leafless branches
• Their shape resembles a parrot’s beak, earning the flower the local name “Tesoo”

Fruits and Seeds

• The fruit is a flat pod containing a single seed
• Seed dispersal occurs during summer

Cultural and Religious Significance

Palash holds a revered place in Indian mythology, festivals, and traditional rituals:

• Holi Festival: The bright orange dye from Palash flowers is traditionally used to prepare natural colors for Holi, the festival of colors.
• Havan and Yajnas: Its wood is considered sacred and is used in Hindu fire rituals.
• Symbol of Sacrifice: In Indian epics, Palash is often associated with sacrifice and purity. The tree blooms even when completely leafless, symbolizing strength and devotion.
• Tribal Beliefs: Many tribal communities regard Palash as a holy tree, and it features in various local legends and songs.

Medicinal Properties and Uses

Ayurveda and traditional Indian medicine use different parts of the Palash tree for their therapeutic benefits:

1. Flowers

• Used in treating skin diseases, eye disorders, and urinary infections
• Have astringent and anthelmintic properties

2. Leaves

• Applied to wounds and ulcers as a poultice
• Used to prepare plates for religious offerings in rural and tribal areas

3. Bark

• Decoctions made from the bark are used to treat diarrhea and dysentery

4. Seeds

• Known for their anthelmintic (anti-parasitic) action
• Applied externally for skin conditions

Ecological Importance

Palash plays a vital role in the forest ecosystem:

• Soil Enrichment: Being a leguminous plant, it helps in nitrogen fixation, thereby improving soil fertility.
• Pollinator Attraction: The nectar-rich flowers attract a wide range of pollinators like bees, butterflies, and birds, aiding biodiversity.
• Habitat: It provides shelter and food for various insects and small animals, especially during the flowering season.

Economic and Practical Uses

Apart from its medicinal and ecological roles, Palash is utilized in several practical ways:

• Natural Dye: The flowers yield a vibrant dye used in textiles and coloring powders.
• Wood: Though not very strong, the wood is used for rural construction, agricultural tools, and making low-cost furniture.
• Leaf Plates and Bowls: Widely used in rural India for eco-friendly disposable utensils.

Conservation Status and Challenges

Palash is not considered endangered, but habitat loss, deforestation, and lack of awareness have led to a decline in its natural populations in certain regions.

Conservation Efforts

• State Emblem and Flower: Being the state flower of Jharkhand and Uttar Pradesh, Palash enjoys symbolic importance, which helps drive awareness campaigns.
• Afforestation Projects: Some government and NGO-led initiatives include Palash in their reforestation drives due to its ecological and cultural significance.
• Sustainable Harvesting: Encouraging the sustainable use of its flowers and bark helps preserve the tree while supporting local livelihoods.

Interesting Facts about Palash

• Botanical Wonder: Palash is often one of the first trees to flower before the arrival of spring.
• Spiritual Association: In Hinduism, the tree is linked to Agni (the fire god).
• Literary Mentions: Celebrated in Indian poetry and literature for its intense colors and evocative beauty.
• Eco-conscious Substitute: Its natural dye is gaining popularity as an alternative to synthetic Holi colors.

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Conclusion

The Palash tree is more than just a botanical specimen—it is a symbol of India’s cultural richness, natural heritage, and ecological resilience. Its fiery flowers light up the forest during the dry months, reminding us of nature’s beauty, strength, and continuity. As urbanization and modernization continue to alter landscapes, it becomes essential to recognize, preserve, and celebrate indigenous species like Butea monosperma, the true Flame of the Forest.