Ashoka (Mast Tree): How to Grow Monoon longifolium in Jaipur
Monoon longifolium
The tall, evergreen "Ashoka" or Mast tree seen along Indian roads. How to plant and care for it in Jaipur, what it offers birds and butterflies, and why it is not the true Ashoka (Saraca asoca).
Not to be confused with the true Ashoka (Saraca asoca)
The Ashoka of old texts, also called Sita Ashok, is a different tree: Saraca asoca, of the pea family (Fabaceae). It is small to medium (about 6–10 m) with a spreading crown, compound leaves and clusters of orange-to-crimson flowers. It grows in moist forests and needs high rainfall (about 1,500–4,000 mm), partial shade and moist soil, so it suits Jaipur poorly. Over-harvesting of its bark is a key threat, and it is listed as Near Threatened on the current IUCN Red List.
The Mast tree does not share the traditional uses of Saraca asoca. Its bark is a known, chemically different adulterant of genuine Ashoka bark in the herbal trade, so do not use it as "Ashoka" medicine.
This article was prepared with AI assistance. Please check important details against the sources shown in each section.
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