A tall, majestic tree, this one, with handsome foliage and a lushly thick canopy that can make any garden-owner proud. With its easy seed germination, fast growth rate, and absolute comfort in growing over any part of India, the Jamun tree makes an ecologist’s heart soar – its inclusion in any tree plantation project is bound to be a success because it makes humans, birds and mother earth equally happy! Indeed, the ripe fruit is a favourite, both of us humans and of other creatures. It is also the preferred larval host plant of the Large Oakblue Butterfly. The Jamun fruit has traditionally been a particularly strong combatant for diabetes and dysentery and other gastro-enteric problems, and recent research has underscored this.
Like many native trees, the Jamun, too, finds mention in ancient Indian texts. In fact, one of the names given to ancient India is ‘Jambudwipa’ which literally translates to the island/piece of land where the Jambu or Jamun trees grow. Now, won’t you agree there is a strong case for the Jamun to challenge the Banyan, given that it is the single species used to define the very land? Ah, well, let’s not politicize this delightful species!
By the way, once you have feasted on a fistful of jamun, don’t forget to wash its purple colour from your tongue!