With over 60,000 species, India is home to a wide range of trees, including Teak, Sal, Mango, Banyan, Peepal, Neem, Coconut and Sandalwood. The country’s varied weather conditions have created a haven for many tree varieties, each playing a vital role in the ecosystem. Tropical trees like Palm trees flourish in hot and humid climates, while temperate trees like Oak and Maple trees grow in moderate temperatures which have seasonal changes.
Desert trees like cactus are adapted to survive in arid conditions with minimal water, and coniferous trees like pine and spruce trees thrive in cold and snowy climates. Meanwhile, coastal trees like mangrove and beach trees are tolerant of salty sea air and high winds, and mountain trees like fir and cedar trees grow in rugged terrain with limited soil.
News18 Network’s ‘Project One Tree’ aims to celebrate this diversity. India’s largest news network has launched the movement aiming to mobilize every Indian to plant a tree as a measure against climate change. This marquee movement seeks to raise awareness about environmental conservation and foster collective action towards a greener, more sustainable future.
We take a look at some Indian trees that can withstand any weather:
Neem Tree
The Neem tree can survive in very hot and dry conditions, as well as in moderate cold. The tree’s deep roots help it find water, and it can shed its leaves to save moisture during droughts. Neem leaves and seeds have natural chemicals that keep pests away. Its branches have also been used as toothbrushes for centuries in India and other countries.
Banyan Tree
As India’s national tree, the Banyan tree is found in different areas across the country. Its height can reach up to 21 metres, with leaves that are 10-20 cm long. The bark, leaf and seeds of the Banyan tree are used to treat various diseases.
Aloe Vera
The Aloe Vera is a small plant that grows up to 12-16 inches in height. Its thick, fleshy leaves have sharp edges, and the plant contains beneficial Aloe Vera gel.
Peepal Tree
The Peepal tree is a fast-growing tree with heart-shaped leaves and a large crown. It sheds its leaves in March and is known to have health benefits.
Amla Plant
The Amla plant is a medium deciduous tree that grows up to 8-18 metres in height. Its spreading branches and corky trunk make it a distinctive species, with feathery and linear-oblong-shaped leaves that smell like lemon.
Tulsi Plant
The Tulsi is a sacred plant in Indian culture. It has round, oval-shaped leaves with a sweet fragrance. Tulsi is not only a medicinal herb but also has spiritual significance. It is used to treat various health issues, such as fever, cough and cold, and is also an essential ingredient in Ayurvedic medicine.
Eucalyptus
Eucalyptus is an evergreen tree having long, narrow leaves with a refreshing aroma. It is used to extract Eucalyptus oil from the leaves and is used to treat respiratory issues, such as asthma and bronchitis.
Mahagonny
Mahagonny is a large deciduous tree that can grow up to 30 metres in height. It has large, compound leaves with a reddish-brown colour. Its wood is highly valued for its durability and is used to make furniture, musical instruments and boats. The tree also has medicinal properties and is used to treat various diseases, including fever, anaemia and dysentery.
Tulip Tree
The Tulip tree is an evergreen tree that has heart-shaped leaves with a cup-shaped flower. This is commonly found in coastal areas and is used as a windbreak. The wood of the Tulip Tree is also valued for its durability and is used to make furniture and boats.
Sal Tree
The Sal tree is a sub-deciduous tree that has leathery leaves with a tough texture. The wood of the Sal is highly valued for its durability and is used to make furniture, boats and other items.
Teak Tree
The Teak tree is an evergreen tree having large, papery leaves which are a light brown colour. The teak wood is highly valued for its durability and is used to make furniture, boats and other items.
Turmeric
Turmeric is a perennial plant that can grow up to 60-90 cm in height. It has short stems with yellow flowers. Turmeric is a highly valued spice and is used to treat various health issues, such as wounds, fever and digestive problems.
Hawthorn
Hawthorn is a deciduous shrub that has thorny branches with red berries. Hawthorn is used to treat various health issues, such as heart problems, digestive issues and skin problems.
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