Who doesn’t love a Gulmohar in full bloom? The red canopy it forms breaks the monotony of the greens and offers a welcome respite from the concrete backdrop of the city. But before you go gaga over this it’s beauty and go on a planting spree, here are a few things you need to know:
Gulmohar, aka known Mayflower tree, is NOT a native of India. It came from Madagascar. And since it is not a native, it is very vulnerable to insect attacks. Also, the roots of this tree do not grow far or deep, making it an easy target for winds. Whenever you head out after a storm, it’s the Gulmohar you would see uprooted and fallen to the ground.
Not being a native, it competes harder with neighbouring trees, and not only affects their growth but itself grows uncontrollably big at the top to receive maximum sunlight. A wide and heavy top and shallow roots are a sure-shot recipe for disaster during bad weather.
That, however, shouldn’t stop you from enjoying the beauty of a fiery red blanket. It is advisable to not plant more than one or two Gulmohars on a one-kilometre stretch, and flank the tree with natives such as Pilkhan or Peepal to offer it the support it needs to stand against the winds. Happy Planting!
