Saraca indicaAsoka Tree

Saraca indica, the Asoka or Sorrowless Tree, produces dense heads of fragrant orange to scarlet flowers directly on the trunk and older branches, so the colour appears at eye level rather than overhead. New foliage hangs limp and copper-pink before hardening to glossy dark green, which is a display in its own right.

It has been planted at temples across South and Southeast Asia for centuries and remains a courtyard and shaded-garden tree rather than a street tree, because it wants shelter and steady moisture.

Specifications

• Height6 to 10 metres
• Width4 to 7 metres
• Native toSouth and Southeast Asia
• FoliagePinnate leaves with long lance-shaped leaflets, hanging limp and copper-pink when new and hardening to glossy dark green; evergreen
• Growth rateSlow to moderate

Conditions

• SoilPrefers deep, moist, well-drained soils rich in organic matter
• LightPartial shade; suits a sheltered position with morning sun
• WaterModerate to high; keep evenly moist
• ClimateThrives in humid tropical and warm subtropical regions; frost sensitive and damaged by hot dry wind

Additional Features

• FlowersDense heads of fragrant orange to scarlet flowers borne on the trunk and older branches, mainly in spring
• UsesIdeal for courtyards, temple and civic gardens, shaded feature planting and sheltered avenue runs in humid climates
• SpacingPlant 5 to 7 metres apart for grouped or avenue planting
• Low MaintenanceMinimal pruning; protect from hot dry wind and full exposure
• Pest ResistanceGenerally resilient in a sheltered position
• Seasonal AppealCopper-pink new growth followed by the spring flower flush
• Cultural SignificanceSacred in Hindu and Buddhist tradition and long planted at temples
• Wildlife AttractionNectar-rich flowers are worked by butterflies

The Asoka Tree puts its flowers where people stand, which is why it has been a courtyard tree for two thousand years.