Roheda is the state flower of Rajasthan. It is a treat to the eyes when you come across a Roheda in full bloom in the desert. The common name of Roheda is Honey Tree, Desert Teak and Marwar Teak. In Sanskrit it is known as Chalachhada and the botanical name is Tecomella undulata belonging to the family Bignoniaceae.
Plant Summary:
Roheda is a hard deciduous tree and grows in dry regions. The tree plays a very important role in the desert region as it helps to bind the soil by the spread of its roots. The tree flourishes in extreme weather. It is found in areas where there is very less water, more sunlight and sandy soil. The wood of this tree is used for firewood, and the leaves as fodder for cattle and goats. The flowers and pods are relished by Camel, goats and sheep.
The birds in the desert nest on this tree and other desert wildlife rest under this tree.
Roheda is indigenous to Gujarat, Maharashtra, Punjab, Haryana and Thar Desert of Rajasthan.
Leaves are 5-12 cm long and narrow with wavy edges. The tubular flowers are beautiful in yellow, orange and red colors.
Fruit is a to 20 cm long, thin, curved capsule with winged seeds. The flowering season is from December to February.
Medicinal uses:
The parts of Roheda tree is used to cure many ailments like syphilis, urinary disorders, enlargement of spleen, abscess, Hepatitis, gonorrhoea, leucoderma and liver diseases.
