Indian cork tree

Description

Millingtonia hortensis, the tree jasmine or Indian cork tree, is the sole species in the genus Millingtonia, is a tree native to South Asia & South East Asia. In the name Millingtonia hortensis, Millingtonia is named for Sir Thomas Millington who was an inspiration to Carl Linnaeus the Younger who first described the genus. The specific epithet 'hortensia' derives from 'hortensis' and 'hortus' which in Latin is related to garden. In its synonym, Bignonia suberosa, 'suberosa' derives from 'suberos' which means 'corky' in Latin. Millingtonia Avenue in Lucknow is named after Millingtonia hortensis. The tree grows to height of between 18 and 25 metres and has a spread of 7 to 11 metres. It reaches maturity between 6 and 8 years of age and lives for up to 40 years. It is a versatile tree which can grow in various soil types and climates with a preference for moist climates. Like Parijata it blooms in night and sheds during morning. Flowers give very pleasant smell.