Other common name of Rosary Pea is Indian Liquorice. In Hindi it is known are Chirmithi, Ghunghchi, Gunj, Ratti. In Sanskrit, it is known as Gunja. Botanical name is Abrus precatorius and belongs to Fabaceae (pea) family.
Rosary Pea is a woody tree, which grows to 20 to 25 feet high. The leaves are alternate and compound about 5 to 13 cm long.
The flowers are violet to pink and bloom in clusters. The look like that of a pea flower. Fruit is short, oblong pod.
The pods split revealing shiny red seeds with a black base. The seeds fall and are collected by children.
These seeds are also collected to make jewelry. The seeds were traditionally used to weigh gold in India.
This tree is commonly grown all over India and can survive harsh conditions.
Propagation:
Rosary Pea tree can be propagated by either cuttings or seeds. Plant in well-drained soil and replant under direct sun after it reaches a height of one foot.