The ancient Parijat tree also known as Kalpavriksh is facing a high risk of extinction, warn scientists from the Botanical Survey of India (BSI) and Birbal Sahni Institute of Palaeosciences (BSIP). These rare trees, growing in places like Kintoor (Barabanki), Jhusi (Prayagraj), and Sultanpur, are under threat from overexploitation, climate change, and declining rainfall. Some specimens in Barabanki and Jhusi are estimated to be over 800 years old.
Parijat trees are being unsustainably harvested for their bark, leaves, fruits, and seeds. Their leaves are used as fodder, vegetables, and flavoring agents, while the bark is valued for rope-making. Their widespread use in culinary products and beverages due to high nutritional value has only increased the pressure on this ancient species.
According to Dr. Arti Garg of BSI safeguard these trees, there is an urgent need to classify them as endangered and take steps to protect their natural habitats.
A Case for Botanical Reclassification
During detailed studies including pollen morphology and quantitative analysis across 26 botanical parameters scientists found unique evolutionary traits. Among the most notable is a thick, distinct annulus ring surrounding the pollen pores, absent in other related species.
This led researchers to propose the creation of a new subfamily ‘Adansonioideae’ within the Malvaceae family for the Adansonia genus (to which Parijat belongs), currently classified under the Bombacoideae subfamily and Adansonieae tribe.
Sacred Roots and African Origins
Beyond their scientific value, Parijat trees hold deep cultural and religious significance. The Jhusi Parijat, revered by Muslims, grows near the mazar of Sufi saint Baba Shaik Taqi along the Triveni Sangam in Prayagraj. The Kintoor Parijat, sacred to Hindus, stands beside a temple said to be built by Kunti, mother of the Pandavas. Legend holds that Arjuna brought the tree from the heavens, and Kunti offered its blossoms to Lord Shiva.
However, historical records trace the tree origin to Africa, likely introduced to India via Arab traders or during the Portuguese, Dutch, and French incursions.
Water Crisis Threatens Stability
Scientists are also raising red flags about the declining water content in the trees. Normally, the Parijat tree’s wood contains up to 79% water, which helps it remain upright. But recent measurements show a worrying drop: only 45.2% in Jhusi and 39.7% in Kintoor, suggesting structural instability and vulnerability.
From folklore to forests the Parijat tree is a symbol of cultural heritage and ecological value. Scientists argue that botanical reclassification is not just a scientific correction it a crucial step toward saving an ancient living legacy from disappearing.