The Indian Dhaura tree (Anogeissus latifolia) is a highly valued tree species in India, known for its ecological and economic importance. It is a deciduous tree that belongs to the family Combretaceae and is commonly found in various parts of India. This tree is also known as axlewood, dhau, and dhavda.
| Tree Characteristics | Description |
| Common Name | Dhaura |
| Scientific name | Anogeissus latifolia |
| Maximum height | 20-25 meters |
| Diameter of crown | 7-12 meters |
| Diameter of trunk | 0.6-1 meter |
| Years to grow | 15-20 years |
| Economic benefit | Timber, fodder, medicinal value, fuelwood, and honey source |
Physical Characteristics
The Indian Dhaura tree can grow up to 25 meters in height and has a spread of 15-20 meters. It has a straight trunk, with a diameter of 1.2 meters, and a broad, spreading crown. The branches of the tree are horizontal and grow in a radial pattern, with a few upward branches. The leaves are elliptical and dark green in color, and the bark is dark brown and rough in texture.
Uses of tree parts of Dhaura
The various parts of the Dhaura tree have been traditionally used for a wide range of purposes. Here are some of the main uses of the tree parts:
Wood: The wood of the Dhaura tree is hard and durable, and has been traditionally used for a variety of purposes such as making furniture, agricultural implements, and building construction. It is also used for firewood and charcoal.
Bark: The bark of the tree contains tannins, which have astringent and antiseptic properties. It has been traditionally used for tanning leather, and for medicinal purposes such as treating diarrhea, dysentery, and skin disorders.
Leaves: The leaves of the Dhaura tree are a rich source of nutrients and have been traditionally used as fodder for livestock. They are also used in traditional medicine for treating various ailments such as fever, wounds, and respiratory disorders.
Gum: The tree produces a gum that is used in the food industry as a stabilizer and thickener.
Seeds: The seeds of the tree are a rich source of oil, which is used in cooking and as a lubricant.
Flowers: The flowers of the tree are used in traditional medicine for treating diarrhea, dysentery, and other digestive disorders.
Overall, the Dhaura tree is a valuable resource for rural communities, providing them with a range of products that are essential for their livelihoods and well-being.
Ecological Role
The Indian Dhaura tree plays a vital role in the ecology of the Indian subcontinent. It is an important tree species in the dry deciduous forests of India and provides food and habitat to a diverse range of wildlife, including birds, insects, and mammals. The tree also helps in soil conservation, as it has an extensive root system that stabilizes the soil and reduces soil erosion.
Importance to Birds, Animals, and Insects
The Indian Dhaura tree is an important source of food and habitat for many bird species, such as the Indian grey hornbill, black-headed oriole, and Indian robin. The tree also provides shelter and food to animals like monkeys, deer, and wild boars. Various insect species, including butterflies and bees, also feed on the nectar and pollen of the flowers of this tree.
Soil and Climatic Conditions
The Indian Dhaura tree prefers well-drained soils, ranging from sandy loam to clay loam. It can grow in a wide range of temperatures, from 5°C to 50°C. The tree can withstand drought conditions and is commonly found in areas with an annual rainfall of 800-1200 mm.
Natural Habitat
The Indian Dhaura tree is widely distributed throughout the Indian subcontinent, including the states of Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Jharkhand, and Maharashtra. It is commonly found in dry deciduous forests, along with other tree species like teak, sal, and neem.
Different Stages of Tree Growth
The Indian Dhaura tree has a slow growth rate and can take up to 25-30 years to reach maturity. It can be propagated through seeds, which are collected from the mature trees during the months of February to March. The seeds are sown in nursery beds and then transplanted in the field after one year.
Economic Benefits
The Indian Dhaura tree has significant economic importance, especially for farmers who grow it under agroforestry. The leaves of this tree are a rich source of tannin, which is used in leather production. The tree also produces a high-quality timber that is used in making furniture, flooring, and construction material. The bark of the tree has medicinal properties and is used in Ayurvedic medicine to treat various ailments.
Conclusion
The Indian Dhaura tree is a highly valued tree species in India due to its ecological and economic importance. It is an important source of food and habitat for wildlife and helps in soil conservation. The slow-growing tree has a significant economic value for farmers, who grow it under agroforestry. Therefore, conservation and sustainable management of this tree species are essential for maintaining the ecological balance and promoting rural livelihoods in India.
