Maharashtra – Jarul
Common Name: Pride of India, Queen Crape Myrtle
Local Name: Mota-bondara, Taman (Marathi), Jarul (Hindi), Tinisa (Sanskrit)
Scientific Name: Lagerstroemia speciosa
Description and Distribution: Jarul is a seasonal flowering tree of medium size that reaches a maximum height of 10 meters. The tree bears enormous mauve to purple flowers in April and June, which are the blooming season. The tree thrives in open areas and forests in the Western Ghats and Assam, India, at low to medium elevations. The popular decorative tree is widely found in Maharashtra’s moist and dry deciduous woods.
Significance: The tree’s bark, seeds, and tender leaves are utilized in traditional medicine and cookery. The wood is used to make railroad sleepers, ships, bridges, and other structures.