Millingtonia hortensis, commonly known as the Tree Jasmine or Indian Cork Tree, is a species of flowering tree in the Bignoniaceae family. Here's an overview:
Distribution: Millingtonia hortensis is native to South and Southeast Asia, including countries like India, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Thailand, and Cambodia. It is commonly cultivated as an ornamental tree in tropical and subtropical regions worldwide.
Appearance: It is a medium-sized deciduous tree that can reach heights of up to 25 meters (approximately 82 feet). The tree has a straight trunk and a rounded canopy with dark green, compound leaves that are arranged oppositely along the branches. The leaves are pinnate, consisting of multiple leaflets.
Flowers: Millingtonia hortensis produces fragrant, white, funnel-shaped flowers that are borne in large, terminal clusters. The flowers have long, tubular corollas and are often compared to jasmine flowers, hence the common name "Tree Jasmine." The flowers attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
Fruit: The tree produces elongated, slender capsules that contain numerous small seeds. The capsules split open when mature to release the seeds.
Cultural Significance: Millingtonia hortensis is valued for its ornamental beauty and sweet fragrance. It is often planted in parks, gardens, and along roadsides for its aesthetic appeal. In some cultures, the flowers are used in religious ceremonies and offerings.
Medicinal Uses: Various parts of the Millingtonia hortensis tree, including the bark, leaves, and flowers, 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 wood of Millingtonia hortensis is lightweight and not commonly used commercially. However, it is sometimes used in handicrafts and for making small wooden items.
Overall, Millingtonia hortensis is a beautiful and culturally significant tree species valued for its ornamental flowers, sweet fragrance, and potential medicinal properties.