Davana is an aromatic herb sold, tied as bunches by the flower sellers. Davana and Maruga / Majorma bunches sell the most during Ganesh Chathurthi–Gowri festival.
Plant Summary:
The botanical name is Artemisia pallens and belongs to Artemisia family. In Sanskrit it is known as Maachi Patram. Maachi Patram is also the name of Manchpatre – Artemisia pallens – Artemisia Indica Wild.
The leaves are greyish silver and are alternate. Each leaf is divided into smaller segments and held at the base. The flower heads of Davana are small and yellow.
Davana is cultivated commercially for its fragrant leaves and flowers, which are used to make perfumes and aromatic oil.
The leaves of the plant are considered sacred and Davana leaves are offered to Lord Ganesha during the 21 patra / leaves pooja while chanting: “Om Sumukhaya namaha, Maachi Patram Samarpayaami”. You can also offer Machi Patram (Artemisia Princeps) leaves while chanting this mantra
Davana is used to make garlands and in fresh and dry flower arrangements.
Propagation:
Davana is grown from seeds and cuttings. It grows in almost all types of soil with good drainage capability. To control aphids spray Rogor at the rate of 1ml per liter.
Harvesting is done by cutting the plants from the base.
