Pipal or Bodhi Tree

Ficus religiosa

A very familiar large deciduous tree with heart shaped leathery leaves that have a long “tail” as well as a long leaf stalk. The leaves tend to rotate or flatter at the slightest breeze. A strangle fig that does have any aerial root.

Bark: Smooth, grey brown with a yellowish wash

Leaf: Large, heart shaped with a long “tail”, margins wavy, leathery, shiny on top with long leaf stalk.

Fruit (figs): In pairs, dark purple when ripe about ½’’ in diameter.

Season: Leaves are shade in late winter or early spring and soon new leaves appear in Feb or March. New leaves are often beautiful in different shades of red.

Range/habitat: Naturalized almost throughout India for so long that its true origin is not clear. Some authorities say “sub Himalayan forests east of Punjab and parts of Bengal and central India”

Trivia and notes: This is called Bodhi tree as Gautam Buddha attained enlightenment meditating under this tree. This tree is much revered by the Hindus as well

Where to Find: One of the most common tree and is found almost everywhere.