Hi
Pathimugam tree or east Indian red wood is a multipurpose tree. It is botanically known
as Caesalpinia sappan L. It is a natural dye yielding medicinal plant and is a small
thorny spreading tree which grows up to
30 feet in height and its wood reaches
15-30 cm in diameter. It bears 3-4 seeds,
ellipsoid, and brown to black colored.
Within a year’s time after planning the
plant reaches a height of 5-8 feet and
begins to bloom in April and continues
till December. Flowers are golden yellow
in colour and are cross pollinated by
bees, butterflies and insects. At the time
of flowerings the side branches are cut
for healthy growth of the tree.
Fruit set starts after 5-15 days of flowering. They come to maturity in three
months time. Only few seeds mature. Pathimugam is cultivated as a
horticultural plant for its wood, bark and large compound leaves and bright
yellow flowers. Its branches when interlaced make a strong barrier, hence, it is
considered as a live fencing plant.
It grows well in all kinds of soil and lush growth is obtained in red soil. It withstands
any amount of drought and defoliates only for a short period of 10 days. The pods
contain 40 per cent tannin and can be used in the place of Sumac. They impart uniform
tan and a soft touch to the leather. The seeds on extraction with petroleum either yield
an orange colored fixed oil.
The important part of this plant is the heartwood that contains water soluble dyes such
as brazilin, protosappanins, Pathimugam chalk cone and haematoxylin. Brazilian on
oxidation yields a red dye called brazilein – the most valuable dye used in coloring
leather, silk, cotton, wool, fibers of different kinds, batik, and calico printing, furniture
floors feather medicines and several handicrafts.
REgards
Ashwini
