The amygdala is a part of our brain that is responsible for emotional processing. It primarily governs feelings such as fear, anxiety and aggression. If you recall the movie Inside Out, where key emotions were personified, think of amygdala as the headquarters from which alarm systems concerning fear, anxiety and anger buzz, especially in times of perceived threats.
Now what does any of this have to do with flowers?
Studies have shown that being surrounded by nature even for one hour can significantly decrease amygdala activities in the brain. This means that the trees and the flowers around us help us relieve all our stress just by existing around us. Unbe-leaf-able, right?
This discovery has changed the way some cities across the globe approach urban landscaping. However, in certain urban planning projects, one element has often been overlooked: exotic trees are being introduced to the environment for their “ornamental beauty” in the landscape. Exotic, in this context, are the species of plants that were brought in from foreign countries — which means that for another region of nature, they’re aliens. And a lot of such trees have the potential of being invasive as well. Invasive stands for the species that alter the ecological and economical balance of the region by spreading and taking over the rest quickly.
Unlike invasive species, exotic flora do not cause any harm to neighbours in its environment to thrive. Let us help you with a well-spotted example. You must have noticed a plant around you that is also an amazing climber bearing colourful, paper-like “flowers”. These are Bougainvillea. Originally from South America, these species were brought to India for its beauty. These have been chosen as striking additions in several places such as gardens and on road dividers, and they require low-maintainance. Though foreigners, bougainvillea have adapted very well to the Indian environment.
Importance of Native Species
Since some of the exotic species are quite popular, we often tend to ignore that they aren’t really native to the region. Native species can be defined as the plants that are naturally found in a particular region. Just because a plant is green and flowers doesn’t guarantee it being as helpful for the environment as native plants do. Those that belong there are truly beneficial for maintaining ecological balance. They have evolved alongside not only the local biodiversity, but also in the natural climatic and soil conditions of the area.
The flowers that bloom on native trees are a major source of food for bees, butterflies and birds found there that are also responsible for pollination. Native trees that have been standing tall for years have developed long standing root systems that help by binding the soil, preventing erosion caused by extreme wind or rain.
Apart from being ecologically important, native plants have also come to be associated with certain traditions and cultures as well. Flowers of a mango tree that is indigenous to India are directly associated with the onset of spring and Lord Kamadeva, the God of Love.
Native Before Exotic
Many exotic trees have been planted across India. While they’ve not taken over or harmed the native species, they have surely stolen the spotlight. Van Mahotsav gives us the opportunity not just to remind ourselves of the flora that belongs to our very own country, but honour and celebrate the role they play for us and nature. A native one that pre-existed the exotic one is just as pleasing to the eye and equally deserving of being treasured.
Pink trumpet tree and Orchid tree
Exotic
Pink trumpet tree
Scientific Name: Tabebuia rosea
These trees are often referred to as the “cherry blossoms of Bangalore”. Cherry blossoms are native to Japan, and pink trumpet trees are endemic to America’s tropical forests, making the two unrelated to each other. The pink trumpet was introduced to Bangalore during British rule, and it quickly adapted to our country’s climate. Now, being willingly adopted by city residents, it is widely considered as a floral identity of the city. A peculiar characteristic of the tree is that it becomes completely leafless when observed in full bloom, wearing only the colour of pink.
Native
Orchid tree
Scientific Name: Bauhinia variegata
While pink trumpets make the news, Bangalore’s very own orchid trees often take the backseat. Orchid trees are also known as kachnar in Sanskrit, which roughly translates to ‘beautiful glowing lady’, a name befitting for the tree. It has beautiful butterfly shaped leaves, with flowers of the brightest pink. The tree also has medicinal value, often associated with having a quality to treat hypothyroidism. The flowers have a cultural significance, used as offerings to Goddesses Lakshmi and Saraswati in religious ceremonies.
Jacaranda and Pride of India
Exotic
Jacaranda
Scientific Name: Jacaranda mimosifolia
Native to Brazil, South America, this tree produces beautiful deep purple, narrow bell-shaped flowers. They proliferate in the city of Bangalore and Pune, causing the streets to turn purple when the flowers shed. Not only were these introduced to India, but also to Australia and Africa. The tree is affiliated with wisdom and planted in schools and universities. When the flowers bloom in late spring in the land down under, they come as a reminder for students to start preparing for upcoming exams… giving it the name of ‘purple panic’!
Native
Pride of India
Scientific Name: Lagerstroemia speciosa
Its common name reflects how it is considered nothing less than a precious gem of Indian flora. The pride of India is also known as Queen’s Crepe Myrtle because the margins in the petals are crinkled like crepe paper. In the year 1993, the flower was celebrated by being illustrated on stamps by India’s Department of Posts. The eye-catching flower is also honoured as the state flower of Maharashtra. The colours of the flower may vary from rich purple and pretty pinks to ethereal whites.
African tulip tree and Palash tree
Exotic
African tulip tree
Scientific Name: Spathodea campanulata
As the name suggests, the tree originates from Africa and each petal of its flower reminds one of a tulip. It was introduced to India in the early 1900s in states like Kolkata, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Delhi and Uttar Pradesh. When in full bloom the tree is covered with a captivating orange colour.
Native
Palash tree
Scientific Name: Butea monosperma
Rightly acknowledged as “flame of the forest”, the tree stands out because of its claw-shaped petals that point towards the sky. The resemblance with flames is uncanny and the flowers can be found in a yellow or a striking scarlet colour. Several birds are attracted to the flower mainly to feast on its nectar, making it a tree that birdwatchers are constantly looking out for! The tree also acts as a source of sustainable livelihood. For example, some communities in Jharkhand depend on lac. The flowers also provide a natural dye and oil. The wood of the tree is also durable which is also collected for sustainable trade.
The examples of exotic trees mentioned above — the pink trumpet tree, jacaranda and African tulip tree — all, fascinatingly, belong to the same family of Bignoniaceae. The reason why they are widespread is also because this family can survive climate compositions our country benevolently offers.
What Can You Do?
We have such a diversity within our country that it is often overlooked or not given sufficient attention it truly deserves. And here is where awareness plays a key role. You must have come across the term ‘seed balls’ multiple times while looking up ways to help the environment. This is a highly effective method when it comes to afforestation efforts. A seed ball consists of compost, clay and seeds. The compost also helps in nourishing the soil. The balls work well as the seeds are also protected from being blown away by the wind or eaten by the birds. The method of dispersing them is more than easy, as they don’t need to be planted in the ground, they just need to be thrown onto a barren land. In other words, with seed balls, you can reap your rewards without having to literally sow them!
Wildlife SOS has encouraged various companies to partner with us for hands-on seed ball making CSR activities. If you would like your organisation to take part in such a crucial activity, reach out to [email protected].
Feature Image: Akash Dolas/Wildlife SOS
