This tree, when it sheds all its leaves to bloom into red profusion, becomes a cynosure for birds of all kinds, some of which even feed on these flowers. A spring season magnet for birds because of its rich treasure of nectar, ecologists swear by the ornithological attraction of its fleshy and flashy crimson flowers. Indeed, many participating in spring-season Bird Races do nothing apart from focusing on this tree, for they know much of their sightings will be centred here.
This native of the Indian subcontinent has strong ecological as well as social benefits. It has long since been a source of fabric and cotton in India and Nepal, which justifies its common name of Red Cotton Tree. In north India, the cottony fibre from its seeds is used to stuff pillows and quilts and the Semal (as it is called in the Hindi heartland) cotton pillows are rather popular for their inviting softness.
With its palmately compound leaves and a trunk that has noticeable spikes jutting out of it, the tree is easy to identify even when its signature flowers go out of season.
Its timber is of little use, being too soft to serve woody purposes. Research and ethno-botanical studies have independently reported several medicinal uses of Semal. In some parts of North India, branches of the Red Cotton tree are particularly burnt in the ‘Holika Dahan’ ritual before Holi. The tree also finds mention in the Mahabharat and Ayurveda.