Trees are poems that the earth writes upon the sky. Kahlil Gibran
We have one such poem — a beautiful one at that — at home. A tree that grew along with my children and now stands tall just outside my window — moving on to a third generation to provide space for my grandchildren to run around it. Although I prefer native species to exotic ones, this tree is an exceptional exotic one. Introduced by the British, it is called Lignum Vitae (Latin for wood of life). It derives its name from its medicinal uses; the resin is used to treat a variety of medical conditions from coughs to arthritis, and it is believed that chips of its wood are used to brew a tea although I haven’t tried it. The botanical name for it is Guiacum Officinale . The tree has small thick green leaves, with orange-coloured fruits and purple flowers.
I wake up to bird song from birds that have made this tree their home. The fruits obviously are a favourite among the birds and, although there are bird droppings, it doesn’t bother me for I know that the birds have flown away after a very satisfied meal. When the purple flowers blossom, there are countless bees and butterflies. Just a single tree creates such a rich biodiversity.
This tree has been a silent witness to happy smiles and helpless tears; has stood the test of time braving extremely hot summers and yet ensuring that cool breeze courses through it into my home. The tree is especially dear since my mother, who loved working with trees, spent a lot of time mastering the art of propagating it. For some reason that was proving difficult.
This is one special tree, which has helped me connect with Mother Nature and I couldn’t be more grateful for its presence in my life!
Vanitha Mohan is the Managing Trustee of Siruthuli, an environmental NGO
