Nagesshor or Ceylon ironwood, Mesua ferrea

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Nagesshor or Ceylon ironwood (Mesua ferrea, family: Clusiaceae) is a medium-sized tree attaining a height of 15 m. It is regarded as one of the most beautiful ornamental trees found in Bangladesh. Angular shape has given the tree a gorgeous look. It is planted in gardens, parks, botanical gardens and in road islands in the country. New leaves and young shoots are brilliant red. As a leafy tree it gives dense shade. So it has a lot of characteristics as an avenue tree. It is originated in South and South-east Asia. It is found in Sylhet, Chottogram and  Chottogram Hill Tracts in Bangladesh.


Leaves are dark green, leathery, narrower, lanceolate, opposite, 7-10 cm long, upperside shinning and lowerside whitish. It gives new leaves round the year.


Flowering occurs in spring. Flowers are spectacular, sweet-scented, 4-8 cm in diameter, white or pinkish white, sepals 2, petals 4, stamens numerous. Flowers are bisexual.


The fruit looks a lot like Acorn. It is round, copper-colored, 2.5 cm in diameter. Seeds 1-2. Propagation is caused by seeds.  


The evergreen leafy plant started giving flowers at an early age. This is why it is more popular to the tropical gardeners. It takes 3-4 weeks to germinate.


Its red-brown wood is very hard and heavy. Railway sleepers are made from its wood. Its flower is used prepare medicine for piles, worms and liver diseases. It is stomachic. Its seeds are used for making soap and in skin diseases. 

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