The Yellow Palash (Butea monosperma)|Buy Yellow Palash Plant

The Yellow Palash (Butea monosperma) is a captivating ornamental tree known for its striking yellow blossoms. It is commonly referred to as the Flame of the Forest due to its brilliant and fiery flowers. Here’s a detailed description:

Description of Yellow Palash Flower Plant:

1. Botanical Name: Butea monosperma
2. Common Names: Flame of the Forest, Yellow Palash, Dhak, Keshu, Palah

Physical Characteristics:

• Height: The Yellow Palash tree typically grows to a height of 12-15 meters (40-50 feet).
• Trunk and Bark: The trunk is medium-sized, with a rough, grayish-brown bark that may peel in vertical strips.
• Leaves: The leaves are pinnate, consisting of three large, leathery leaflets. They are dark green and shed during the dry season before flowering.
• Flowers: The most distinctive feature is its bright yellow flowers. The flowers are clustered on leafless branches and have a characteristic shape with five petals, including a large, beak-shaped keel petal. The tree blooms in late winter to early spring, creating a stunning display.

Growing Conditions:

• Light: The Yellow Palash requires full sun to thrive. It needs at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily.
• Soil: It prefers well-draining soil, although it can tolerate a range of soil types, including sandy and loamy soils.
• Water: The tree is drought-tolerant and does not require frequent watering once established. Water deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out between watering.
• Temperature: It thrives in warm, tropical, and subtropical climates. It can withstand high temperatures and is relatively frost-resistant.
• Fertilizer: The Yellow Palash generally does not require heavy fertilization. Organic compost or a balanced fertilizer can be applied in the growing season to support healthy growth.

Maintenance:

• Pruning: Minimal pruning is required, mainly to remove dead or damaged branches and maintain shape.
• Pests and Diseases: The Yellow Palash is relatively pest-resistant but can occasionally suffer from fungal infections and insect attacks. Regular inspection and proper plant care can mitigate these issues.

Uses:

• Ornamental: Widely planted for its decorative value, especially in gardens, parks, and along roadsides.
• Cultural and Medicinal: In some cultures, parts of the tree are used in traditional medicine for their anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. The flowers are also used in religious ceremonies and to make natural dyes.

Environmental Benefits:

• Biodiversity: The flowers attract pollinators such as bees, birds, and butterflies, supporting local biodiversity.
• Soil Enrichment: The tree has nitrogen-fixing properties, enriching the soil in which it grows.

The Yellow Palash is a stunning tree that brings a burst of color and beauty to any landscape, making it a popular choice for gardeners and landscapers alike.