Adenanthera pavonina, commonly known as the Red Sandalwood Tree, Red Bead Tree, or Coralwood Tree, is a species of flowering tree belonging to the Fabaceae family. Here's an overview:
Distribution: Adenanthera pavonina is native to Southeast Asia, including countries like India, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Thailand, and Malaysia. It has also been introduced to various tropical regions around the world.
Appearance: It is a medium-sized deciduous tree that can reach heights of up to 20 meters (approximately 65 feet). The tree has a spreading canopy with compound leaves that are pinnate, consisting of small leaflets arranged in pairs along a central stem. The tree produces small, fragrant, red or pink flowers that are arranged in dense clusters.
Fruit: The tree bears flattened seed pods that are reddish-brown in color when mature. These pods contain bright red seeds, which are often used in jewelry-making and as decorative beads.
Cultural Significance: Adenanthera pavonina has cultural and religious significance in various parts of Asia. The seeds are sometimes used as prayer beads or rosaries in Hinduism and Buddhism. In some cultures, the tree is associated with good luck, protection, and fertility.
Medicinal Uses: Various parts of the Adenanthera pavonina tree, including the bark, leaves, and seeds, have been used in traditional medicine for their medicinal properties. Extracts from the tree have been studied for their potential antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial effects.
Wood: The heartwood of Adenanthera pavonina is valued for its reddish color and durability. It is used in woodworking for making furniture, decorative items, and musical instruments.
Environmental Importance: Adenanthera pavonina plays a role in agroforestry systems and reforestation efforts in tropical regions. The tree helps improve soil fertility, provides shade and habitat for wildlife, and contributes to the overall biodiversity of its ecosystem.
Overall, Adenanthera pavonina is a culturally significant and economically valuable tree species with various uses and ecological benefits in its native range and beyond.