Crateva magna

Crataeva magna 01

Crataeva magna(2)

Crateva magna is a species of flowering plant in the family Capparaceae. It is commonly known as the Three-leaved caper or Varuna. This plant is native to the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia, where it is found in a variety of habitats, including riverbanks, forests, and open fields.

Description

Crateva magna is a deciduous tree that can grow up to 10-20 meters in height. The leaves are trifoliate, meaning they are composed of three leaflets. The leaflets are ovate to elliptic in shape, with a smooth margin and a pointed tip. The flowers are large, showy, and fragrant, typically white or yellow in color, and they bloom in clusters. The fruit is a berry, which turns yellow when ripe and contains numerous seeds.

Habitat and Distribution

Crateva magna is widely distributed across the Indian subcontinent, including countries such as India, Nepal, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka. It is also found in parts of Southeast Asia, including Thailand, Myanmar, and Malaysia. The plant thrives in tropical and subtropical climates, often growing along riverbanks, in forests, and in open fields.

Uses

Crateva magna has various uses in traditional medicine and is valued for its medicinal properties. The bark, leaves, and roots of the plant are used in Ayurveda and other traditional medicine systems to treat a range of ailments, including urinary disorders, kidney stones, and digestive issues. The plant is also used in the preparation of herbal remedies and tonics.

Cultivation

Crateva magna can be propagated from seeds or cuttings. It prefers well-drained soil and a sunny location. The plant is relatively hardy and can tolerate a range of soil types, although it thrives best in fertile, loamy soil. Regular watering is essential during the initial stages of growth, but once established, the plant is relatively drought-tolerant.

Related Species

Crateva magna is closely related to other species in the genus Crateva, such as Crateva religiosa and Crateva adansonii. These species share similar morphological characteristics and are often found in similar habitats.

Related Pages

• Capparaceae
• Ayurveda
• Indian subcontinent
• Traditional medicine