While passing through the forest, I came across a really strange tree with numerous hanging flowers. It reminded of those mysterious and holy trees we often see in fantasy movies.
Does it also remind you the same?
The tree is locally known as Utis (in nepalese) and its botanical name is Alnus Nepalensis. It's a large alder tree native to subtropical regions of himalayas.
What makes it unique among other trees are its long and bright green hanging flowers, also called catkins. While the female flowers are a bit short in size..
The male flowers goes up to 12-25 cm in length..
When I asked about the practical uses of this tree from the locals, They told me it's usually planted to control soil erosion and for land recovery in shifting cultivation. Also, because its wood is soft and burns quickly, it is used as firewood and for making charcoal.
Fast facts-
Prefers loamy and deep soils to grow.
A fully mature tree can reach up to 25 m in height.
Its leaves are used as fodder for the cattle.
A good option for green manure.
fixes nitrogen in the soil.
I hope you enjoyed reading about it. Thanks for the visit!