Stereospermum chelonoides

Other names: stereospermum suaveolens, Fragrant Padri Tree, Bignonia chelonoides, patala

Stereospermum chelonoides, also known as stereospermum suaveolens, Fragrant Padri Tree, Bignonia chelonoides or patala, is a tropical tree native to India and Southeast Asia. Its name comes from the Greek words \'stereos\' meaning solid and \'sperma\' meaning seed, referring to its hard seeds. Patala, as the tree is called in Sanskrit, is considered one of the most important herbs in Ayurveda. Its flowers are particularly attractive, with a lush feathery shape and white to pinkish colour. This contrasts with the darker colour of the interior, which is reddish-brown to orange.

Stereospermum chelonoides has several uses for mankind. In the pharmaceutical industry, the bark and roots of this tree are used to make medicines for earaches, headaches, fever and also for respiratory problems. The wood of Stereospermum chelonoides is also popular in the furniture industry. It is a rhizoid material with resistance to termites, making it ideal for outdoor furniture and structures. In addition, the wood is also used in heavy engineering for shipbuilding. Because of its medicinal properties, the tree's flowers are also used in traditional Indian medicine. Besides, the flowers are also used in gastronomy, especially in India. There they are popular as ingredients in various dishes for their delicate and fresh taste.