Banyan tree species are found mainly in tropical and semi temperate areas. The species native to India is known as Indian banyan/bargad/vad/vat or Ficus benghalensis. Here are some interesting facts about the Banyan tree (Bargad ka ped).
Interesting facts about the Banyan tree (Bargad ka ped)
- Indian banyan trees are the largest trees in the world by area of canopy. Some of these trees are so huge that you will not believe their size unless you see them.
Thimmamma Marrimanu
Thimmamma Marrimanu is a banyan tree in Anantapur, Andhra Pradesh. It is probably the largest tree in the world by the area of canopy.
Area: around 19,100 square metres (4.72 acres)
Age: more than 200 years
Kabirvad
Kabirvad is a large Banyan tree located in Bharuch, Gujarat.
Area: around 17,520 square metres (4.33 acres)
Age: more than 300 years
The Great Banyan
The Great Banyan is probably the most famous large Banyan tree. It is located in Howrah, West Bengal.
Area: around 18,920 square metres (4.67 acres)
Age: more than 250 years
- The banyan tree has a lot of cultural, religious, and medical significance. They are considered sacred in Hinduism and Buddhism, the reason why you generally find a banyan tree in the vicinity of a temple.
- The aerial roots of the Banyan tree grow downwards and once they touch the ground they begin transforming into trunks. In the big old trees, it becomes very difficult to identify the original trunk.
- Lord Krishna is sometimes depicted resting on a Banyan leaf.
- There are even festivals dedicated to Banyan trees such as Vat Purnima.
- In Ayurveda, different parts of the banyan tree are used for so many different purposes. The leaves are used in treating Diarrhoea, and a bunch of skin-related problems. Roots are used for treating gum diseases, maintaining sugar levels, etc.
Disclaimer: Any medicine should be taken as advised by the Physician.
- Banyan trees play a very important role in balancing the ecosystem. They are considered as the keystone species. Their fruits are consumed by small animals and birds. Many birds build their nest around these trees. Their roots and trunks are home to microorganisms(mainly endophytes).
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