About this variety
Senegalia catechu (Catechu Tree, Khair) Seeds
Senegalia catechu, commonly known as the Catechu Tree or Khair, is a deciduous tree from the Fabaceae family. Native to the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia, this multipurpose tree is widely valued for its timber, tannins, medicinal properties, and ecological contributions. It is a prominent species in agroforestry and reforestation projects due to its resilience and versatility.
Characteristics:
• Plant Description: Senegalia catechu grows up to 10–15 meters in height, with a straight trunk and thorny branches. Its bipinnate leaves are delicate and feathery, and the tree produces fragrant, yellowish-white flowers in dense spikes. These are followed by flat, dark brown seed pods containing small, hard seeds.
• Tannins: The tree is a primary source of catechu, an extract used in tanning, dyeing, and Ayurvedic medicine.
• Climate Adaptability: Thrives in arid and semi-arid regions, tolerating drought and poor soils, making it ideal for drylands and degraded landscapes.
Uses and Benefits:
• Tannin and Catechu Extraction: Catechu, extracted from its heartwood, is used in tanning leather, producing natural dyes, and as a key ingredient in traditional medicinal preparations.
• Medicinal Applications: Catechu is used in Ayurveda for its astringent, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties. It is commonly used to treat digestive issues, sore throats, and skin ailments.
• Timber: The hard, durable wood is used for furniture, agricultural implements, and firewood.
• Soil Improvement: As a nitrogen-fixing species, Senegalia catechu enhances soil fertility and supports sustainable agricultural practices.
• Ecological Role: The tree stabilizes soil, prevents erosion, and provides habitat for wildlife. Its flowers attract bees and other pollinators, contributing to biodiversity.
• Fodder: Leaves and pods are used as fodder for livestock in arid regions.
Cultivation:
• Sowing: Soak seeds in warm water for 24 hours before planting to improve germination rates. Sow seeds in nursery beds or directly in well-prepared soil. Cover lightly with soil and water regularly. Germination occurs within 2–3 weeks.
• Growth Conditions: Prefers full sun and well-drained soils, including sandy, loamy, and rocky soils. Highly drought-tolerant once established but benefits from moderate watering during its early stages.
• Maintenance: A low-maintenance tree requiring minimal care. Regular pruning can help shape the tree and remove dead or damaged branches.
Unique Features:
• Resilience: Thrives in dry and nutrient-poor soils, making it suitable for afforestation and reforestation in arid regions.
• Economic Importance: Provides tannins, timber, and medicinal products, supporting livelihoods in rural communities.
• Ecological Benefits: Acts as a soil stabilizer and nitrogen fixer, promoting soil health and preventing desertification.
Shipping:
Available for shipping within India and worldwide. Orders are typically dispatched within 1–2 weeks.
From Deodar Seeds Company.
Senegalia catechu, commonly known as the Catechu Tree or Khair, is a deciduous tree from the Fabaceae family. Native to the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia, this multipurpose tree is widely valued for its timber, tannins, medicinal properties, and ecological contributions. It is a prominent species in agroforestry and reforestation projects due to its resilience and versatility.
Characteristics:
• Plant Description: Senegalia catechu grows up to 10–15 meters in height, with a straight trunk and thorny branches. Its bipinnate leaves are delicate and feathery, and the tree produces fragrant, yellowish-white flowers in dense spikes. These are followed by flat, dark brown seed pods containing small, hard seeds.
• Tannins: The tree is a primary source of catechu, an extract used in tanning, dyeing, and Ayurvedic medicine.
• Climate Adaptability: Thrives in arid and semi-arid regions, tolerating drought and poor soils, making it ideal for drylands and degraded landscapes.
Uses and Benefits:
• Tannin and Catechu Extraction: Catechu, extracted from its heartwood, is used in tanning leather, producing natural dyes, and as a key ingredient in traditional medicinal preparations.
• Medicinal Applications: Catechu is used in Ayurveda for its astringent, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties. It is commonly used to treat digestive issues, sore throats, and skin ailments.
• Timber: The hard, durable wood is used for furniture, agricultural implements, and firewood.
• Soil Improvement: As a nitrogen-fixing species, Senegalia catechu enhances soil fertility and supports sustainable agricultural practices.
• Ecological Role: The tree stabilizes soil, prevents erosion, and provides habitat for wildlife. Its flowers attract bees and other pollinators, contributing to biodiversity.
• Fodder: Leaves and pods are used as fodder for livestock in arid regions.
Cultivation:
• Sowing: Soak seeds in warm water for 24 hours before planting to improve germination rates. Sow seeds in nursery beds or directly in well-prepared soil. Cover lightly with soil and water regularly. Germination occurs within 2–3 weeks.
• Growth Conditions: Prefers full sun and well-drained soils, including sandy, loamy, and rocky soils. Highly drought-tolerant once established but benefits from moderate watering during its early stages.
• Maintenance: A low-maintenance tree requiring minimal care. Regular pruning can help shape the tree and remove dead or damaged branches.
Unique Features:
• Resilience: Thrives in dry and nutrient-poor soils, making it suitable for afforestation and reforestation in arid regions.
• Economic Importance: Provides tannins, timber, and medicinal products, supporting livelihoods in rural communities.
• Ecological Benefits: Acts as a soil stabilizer and nitrogen fixer, promoting soil health and preventing desertification.
Shipping:
Available for shipping within India and worldwide. Orders are typically dispatched within 1–2 weeks.
From Deodar Seeds Company.
