Mesua ferrea (Ceylon Ironwood)

Product Name: Mesua ferrea (Ceylon Ironwood)

Description:

The Mesua ferrea, commonly known as the Ceylon Ironwood or Nagkesar Tree, is a magnificent, evergreen tree known for its fragrant white flowers and durable hardwood. Revered in India for its cultural, ornamental, and medicinal significance, this tree is ideal for adding beauty and elegance to gardens and landscapes. Native to the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia, the Ceylon Ironwood thrives in a variety of climates and is widely used in gardens, parks, and temple courtyards across India.

Features:

• Fragrant White Flowers: The Ceylon Ironwood produces beautiful, large white flowers with bright yellow stamens, releasing a delightful fragrance that fills the air. These blossoms appear in spring and early summer, attracting bees and other pollinators.
• Glossy Evergreen Foliage: The tree’s dense, glossy green leaves are tinged with bronze when young, adding year-round appeal to your landscape. The foliage creates a thick, shady canopy that provides a cooling effect, making it perfect for creating shaded spaces.
• Hardwood Timber: Known for its incredibly hard and durable wood, the Ceylon Ironwood has been traditionally used for making furniture and construction. Its hardwood is resistant to termites, making it a valuable resource.
• Cultural & Medicinal Importance: The Nagkesar tree holds a special place in Indian culture, often planted around temples and sacred sites. Its flowers, seeds, and bark are also used in traditional Ayurvedic medicine for their therapeutic properties.
• Low Maintenance: Once established, the Ceylon Ironwood is hardy and drought-tolerant, making it a low-maintenance option for both urban and rural landscapes. It thrives in tropical and subtropical climates with minimal care.

Planting & Care:

• Sunlight: Prefers full sun to partial shade. For optimal growth and flowering, plant the tree in a sunny spot where it receives ample sunlight throughout the day.
• Soil: The tree thrives in well-drained, slightly acidic soil. It can adapt to a variety of soil types, including sandy and loamy soils, but avoid waterlogged areas.
• Watering: Water regularly during the first few years to help establish a strong root system. Once established, the tree is moderately drought-tolerant and requires minimal watering.
• Pruning: Minimal pruning is required, but you can remove dead or damaged branches to maintain the tree's shape and health.
• Fertilization: Apply organic compost or a balanced fertilizer in early spring to promote healthy growth and abundant flowering.

Ideal For:

• Large gardens and parks
• Avenue and roadside planting
• Temple courtyards and sacred spaces
• Ornamental landscaping

Additional Information:

• Mature Height: 50-80 feet
• Mature Spread: 30-40 feet
• Growth Rate: Slow to moderate
• Foliage Type: Evergreen
• Bloom Time: Spring to early summer
• Origin: Native to the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia

The Ceylon Ironwood is a striking, long-lived tree that combines beauty, cultural significance, and environmental benefits. Its fragrant flowers, evergreen foliage, and durable timber make it an excellent choice for gardens, public spaces, and religious settings in India.