Maharashtra, a vibrant state in the western peninsular region of India, is not only known for its rich culture and history but also for its diverse flora and fauna. Among this biodiversity, the Mango Tree, or ‘Mangifera indica’, stands out as the state tree of Maharashtra. This article delves into the significance, characteristics, and cultural importance of the Mango Tree in Maharashtra.
Introduction to Mangifera indica – Mango Tree
The Mango Tree, botanically known as ‘Mangifera indica’, is a fruit-bearing tree native to South Asia. It has been cultivated in this region for thousands of years and is revered for its luscious fruits and cultural significance.
Characteristics of the Mango Tree
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Family | Anacardiaceae |
| Origin | South Asia |
| Height | Up to 35-40 meters |
| Leaf | Simple, lanceolate, 15-35 cm long |
| Flower | Small, white, produced in large terminal panicles |
| Fruit | Fleshy, with a stone containing a single large seed |
| Flowering Season | March to April |
| Fruit Season | May to September |
Official Flora of States and Union Territories of India
| State | State Tree | State Flower |
| India | Banyan tree | Lotus |
| Andaman & Nicobar Islands | Andaman Redwood (Pterocarpus dalbergioides) | Andaman Crape Myrtle (Lagerstroemia hypoleuca) |
| Andhra Pradesh | Neem | Water Lily |
| Arunachal Pradesh | Hollong (Dipterocarpus macrocarpus) | Foxtail Orchid |
| Assam | Hollong (Dipterocarpus macrocarpus) | Foxtail Orchid |
| Bihar | Peepal | Kachnar |
| Chandigarh | Mango Tree | Dhak Flower |
| Chhattishgarh | Sal (Shorea robusta) | * |
| Dadra & Nagar Haveli | * | * |
| Daman & Diu | * | * |
| Delhi | * | * |
| Goa | Indian Laurel, Coconut Palm, | * |
| Gujarat | * | * |
| Haryana | Peepal | Lotus |
| Himachal Pradesh | Devdar | Bell Rhododendron |
| Jammu & Kashmir | Chinar | Lotus |
| Jharkhand | Sal (Shorea robusta) | Palash |
| Karnataka | Sandalwood (Santalum album) | Lotus |
| Kerala | Coconut | Kanikonna |
| Lakshadweep | Chakka | * |
| Madhya Pradesh | * | * |
| Maharashtra | Mango | Jarul |
| Manipur | Ooningthou (Phoebe hainesiana) | Siroi lily |
| Meghalaya | Gamhar | Lady slipper orchid |
| Mizoram | Nag Kesar | Dancing Girl Orchid (?) |
| Nagaland | Alder (Alnus nepalensis) | Rhododendron |
| Orissa | Peepal | Ashok flower |
| Pondichery | * | Cannonball Tree |
| Punjab | Sheesham | * |
| Rajasthan | Khejri | Rohira (Tecomella undulata) |
| Sikkim | Pink-Bell Rhododendron | Noble orchid |
| Tamil Nadu | Palmyra palm (Borassus flabellifer) | Kandhal |
| Telangana | Jammi Chettu (Prosopis cineraria) | Tanner’s Cassia (Senna auriculata) |
| Tripura | Agar (Aquilaria agallocha) | Nageshwar |
| Uttar Pradesh | Ashok | Palash |
| Uttaranchal | Burans | Brahm kamal |
| West Bengal | Devil Tree | Shephali |
Cultural Significance
In Maharashtra, the Mango Tree is not just a source of delicious fruits but also a symbol of love, fertility, and prosperity. The tree and its fruit are often mentioned in Indian mythology and folklore. Mango leaves are used in religious rituals and are considered auspicious in Hindu culture. They are often hung at the entrance of homes during festivals and important occasions.
Economic Importance
The Mango Tree plays a significant role in the economy of Maharashtra. The state is one of the leading producers of mangoes in India, particularly famous for the ‘Alphonso’ variety, known for its rich taste and texture. The mango industry supports a large number of farmers and contributes significantly to the state’s economy.
Mango Varieties in Maharashtra
| Variety | Region | Characteristics |
|---|---|---|
| Alphonso | Ratnagiri, Raigad | Sweet and aromatic, bright orange flesh |
| Kesar | Pune, Nashik | Smooth texture, intense sweet flavor |
| Hapus | Konkan region | Similar to Alphonso, highly sought after |
Read More : State Flower of Maharashtra
Environmental Impact
The Mango Tree also plays a vital role in the ecosystem. It provides habitat and food for a wide range of birds and insects. Its extensive root system helps in soil conservation, and the canopy offers shade and reduces temperature.
Challenges and Conservation
Despite its importance, the Mango Tree faces challenges like climate change, pests, and diseases. Efforts are being made to conserve and promote sustainable practices in mango cultivation to ensure the tree continues to thrive in Maharashtra’s landscape.
Conclusion
The Mango Tree, as the state tree of Maharashtra, is not only a source of economic wealth but also a symbol of cultural heritage and environmental significance. Its deep roots in the state’s history and culture make it an emblem of pride for the people of Maharashtra. The tree’s continued conservation and sustainable cultivation are essential for preserving this legacy for future generations.