• Known as Honge mara (pongamia pinnata) in Kannada, the Indian Beech tree is native to India. “It has a shady canopy and wind resistant trunk. Though it shows revealing and conspicuous signs of insect infestations, it shows resilience and springs forth fresh flush of leaves, overcoming the pest attacks,” says Pauline Deborah, associate professor, Department of Plant Biology, Women’s Christian College (Chennai).
  • Oil pressed from its seed has been used as a biofuel, an eco-friendly fuel alternative in locomotives. “It is sturdy and can withstand storms and squalls...perhaps can be seen as a symbol of strong marriage in the context,” she says. The evergreen, indigenous tree is dependable for its shade, for this reason it is recommended to be planted on avenues and parks.