Vahni

Planted in the memory of Lala Lajpat Rai on the occasion of Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav

Overview & Habitat

In arid regions where life struggles against the desert’s unyielding grasp, Prosopis cineraria stands as a stoic, unassuming survivor.
Native to the Middle East and the Indian subcontinent, this desert tree is often known as the Khejri, Ghaf, or Shami.
Prosopis cineraria has earned a reputation for resilience.

Prosopis cineraria grows up to 9 m tall, often with gnarled branches and a sparse canopy.
Its grey-green leaves appear almost delicate in the harsh desert sun, finely bipinnate, offering minimal shade but a critical respite to the region’s wildlife.
The tree is deeply rooted, sometimes reaching depths of over 20 m to access groundwater.

Blooming between March and May, the flowers of Prosopis cineraria appear in small, yellowish spikes, measuring about 5-12 cm in length.
They serve by producing nectar that draws bees and other pollinators, helping maintain a delicate balance in the ecosystem.

By June or July, the tree produces its fruit – pods that are around 20 cm long.
These pods house up to 20 seeds ensuring the tree’s future and providing nourishment for local communities.
In drought-prone areas, these seeds, often ground into flour, are consumed as a vital source of nutrition.

Prosopis cineraria belongs to the Fabaceae family and shares its lineage with other nitrogen-fixing trees, enhancing soil fertility in barren regions.
It is closely related to the Mesquite, known for its hardiness and usefulness to humans.

For centuries, Prosopis cineraria has been a pillar of desert agriculture and survival.
The tree’s roots fix nitrogen in the soil, improving fertility for crops like millet and pulses.
Its wood is dense and durable, used in construction and as fuel in regions where alternatives are scarce.
The true value of the Khejri lies in its medicinal properties.
Ayurvedic practitioners have long recognized the benefits of the bark, leaves, and pods, using them in treatments for conditions ranging from respiratory disorders to skin diseases.
Even the gum extracted from the tree is used to treat wounds and ulcers.
The cultural significance of Prosopis cineraria is immense, being sacred in Rajasthan, where it’s believed to bring prosperity and protection, earning the title of the ‘Tree of Life’ in the desert.

1st Floor, KSIDC Investment Zone
SDF 2, Canal Pirivu, Palakkad
Kerala - 678621 India

2B, Mayflower
Brookefields Apartments
Sastri Road, RS Puram
Coimbatore – 641002
Tamil Nadu, India

105, Aspect Towers
Business Bay, Dubai
PO Box 242982

Downloads