The Indian Mast Tree Polyalthia longifoliaThis is the tree most commonly called Debdaru in West Bengal Bangladesh and southern India It is frequently seen in urban areas and gardens
Appearance A tall slender evergreen tree that grows in a symmetrical pyramidal shape It has weeping branches that hang downwards almost touching the trunk
Leaves Long narrow and lanceshaped with distinct wavy undulated edges New leaves are copperybrown turning light green and eventually dark glossy green
Purpose Primarily used as an ornamental tree or a noisebarrier Because it grows very straight and tall its wood was historically used to make ship masts hence the name Mast Tree
Flowers Small starshaped greenishyellow flowers that appear in clusters
2 The Deodar Cedar Cedrus deodaraIn North India and the Himalayan regions Devdaru refers to the majestic Himalayan Cedar The name comes from the Sanskrit Devadaru meaning Timber of the Gods
Appearance A massive coniferous evergreen tree with a thick trunk and spreading horizontal branches with drooping tips
Foliage It has needlelike leaves typical of cedars that are bluishgreen or silvergreen
Habitat Highaltitude mountain regions Himalayas It cannot grow in the hot humid plains where the Mast Tree thrives
Significance Its wood is highly durable rotresistant and fragrant It is used in construction and for making incense or essential oils