Kadambu

Planted in the memory of Kunwar Singh on the occasion of Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav

Overview & Habitat

Neolamarckia cadamba, commonly known as the Kadamba tree, is celebrated in myths and local folklore.
Its ecological and practical significance is less explored despite its towering presence in tropical forests.
The tree plays a vital role in medicine, construction, and agriculture.

Neolamarckia cadamba is native to Southeast Asia and thrives in humid, tropical regions.
It is a fast-growing, deciduous tree that can reach a height of up to 45 m and a girth as wide as 3 m.
The tree has a straight trunk with branches forming an expansive, dome-shaped canopy.
Its bark is smooth and gray, aging into a rougher, scaly texture.
It is an essential component of forest ecosystems, providing shelter and shade.
Its rapid growth sometimes raises concerns about its invasiveness in non-native areas.

The flowers of Neolamarckia cadamba are bright orange-yellow, spherical clusters that hang like lanterns from the branches.
These fragrant blooms appear during the monsoon and attract pollinators like bees and butterflies.
The flowers serve as a crucial food source for various species, including insects and birds, sustaining local biodiversity.
Post-flowering, the tree produces small, fleshy fruits that turn brown when ripe.

Though not palatable for human consumption, the fruits are a favorite among birds and mammals.
Each fruit contains numerous seeds, which are dispersed by animals, aiding in the tree’s reproduction across vast areas.
The fruit’s high water content makes it especially valuable in arid regions where moisture retention is crucial for survival.

Neolamarckia cadamba belongs to the Rubiaceae family, making it a distant relative of coffee plants.
Its taxonomic classification was revised in 1984, with the genus Neolamarckia replacing its former classification under Anthocephalus.

Neolamarckia cadamba has lightweight and durable timber that is sought after for various uses, including plywood, furniture, boxes, and crates.
The wood’s density makes it easy to work with and ideal for quick-drying.
The tree shows promise in soil enrichment, shedding significant amounts of organic material that decomposes to improve soil quality.

Neolamarckia cadamba is associated with Krishna and Parvati in Hindu mythology.
The tree is celebrated in festivals like Kadambotsava in Karnataka, commemorating the Kadamba Dynasty of the 4th and 5th centuries.
In Buddhism, legend has it that the Sumedha Buddha attained enlightenment beneath a Kadamba tree.
The Kadamba tree is linked to religion, royalty, the perfume industry, and pulp production, demonstrating its resilience and versatility.