Moringa pterygosperma Gaertn.de.Fruct

Description :

A large deciduous tree. The tripinnate, compound leaves are large 30 to 70 cm long. Leaflets are opposite. The bark is corky. The flowers are 2.4 cm across, white, strongly honey scented in large panicles. Flowers develop between February and April. The fruit is a large capsules 25 to 50 cm long. The three angled, winged, seed matures in August and is 2.4 cm long. It is reproduced both from seed and by vegetative means. The growth rate is moderate. Grains are straight, sapwood is of light color with medium density and weak strength.

Distribution :

The tree is native to Pakistan in the Sub-Himalayan tract. Cultivated in the plains from Rawalpindi eastward. A very intolerant tree that is cultivated on a large variety of sites but does best on well drained soils. It can withstand periods of drought, grows on eroded sites, and coppices.

 

Uses :

The tree has value as an avenue tree or planted along water courses. It is a good fodder tree especially for camels. Also used as fodder, food (leaves, flowers and fruits), seed oil (lubrication and perfume), and gum (bark).