Khejri Tree (Prosopis cineraria): Rajasthan's State Tree and How to Grow It in Jaipur
Prosopis cineraria
Khejri is Rajasthan's state tree: it stays green in the hottest months, enriches the soil and gives sangri and fodder. How to plant it in Jaipur, care for it in the first three years, and why it matters to the Bishnoi community.
Toxicity
Cautions and safety
- Thorns. The branches carry prickles. Plant away from paths and play areas, and wear gloves when handling.
- Not vilayati babool. Do not confuse Khejri with Prosopis juliflora (vilayati babool), a foreign species that has invaded grazing lands and sacred groves in the Thar. Make sure your nursery supplies true Prosopis cineraria.
- Toxicity. The pods traditionally eaten are not considered toxic, and leaves and pods are staple fodder for goats, camels, cattle and sheep. Folk belief holds that the fruit is hard to digest if eaten in excess. Effects on cats and dogs are not documented.
- Root suckers. In wetter areas it can spread by root suckers; this is not a big risk in Jaipur.
- Choose a permanent spot. Felling Khejri is restricted in Rajasthan. In February 2026 the state ordered a statewide ban on cutting Khejri, and in August 2026 the State Cabinet approved a tree protection bill that includes it. Plant it where it can stay for good.
Plant a Khejri in someone's name with GreenEye: Gift a Tree
- Humans
- Non-toxic
- Pets and animals
- Not verified — check before exposing pets or children
This article was prepared with AI assistance. Please check important details against the sources shown in each section.
Plant a tree you can track
Plant a tree on GreenEye land and track it as it grows.
Share this article