Mahua (Madhuca longifolia)

Mahua

Also known as: Madhūka, Mohulo, Indian illipe seed, Mowrah seed

Mahua is a tropical species found primarily on the Indian Subcontinent. Its orb-shaped flowers can be made into jam and liquor or dried and then ground into flour for bread. Mahua is culturally important in its native range, and both Hindu and Buddhist literature include references to it.

Scientific classification

Species

Mahua (Madhuca longifolia)

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14 m

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

2 cm

Flower Size

Red, Orange

Flower Color

Evergreen

Leaf type

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Mahua

Distribution of Mahua

Distribution Map

Mahua is primarily native to the tropical regions of South Asia. Its native range encompasses the Indian subcontinent and extends further east into the mainland Southeast Asia. This species has also been introduced to regions of the western part of South Asia, where it has become naturalized.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Care Guide for Mahua

Every 2-3 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Originating from arid regions, mahua thrives with minimal moisture and has high drought tolerance. It requires watering every 2-3 weeks and prefers drier conditions, thriving on seasonal rains rather than frequent human intervention.

Pruning: Mahua is an evergreen tropical tree with dense foliage and fragrant flowers. Prune from early to late winter by removing dead branches and thinning overcrowded areas to improve air circulation, promote new growth, enhance flowering and fruiting, ensuring cuts are clean to minimize stress.

Propagation: Mahua is a tropical tree valued for its flowers used in traditional medicine and oil from its seeds. Propagation through stem cuttings from healthy shoots, treated with rooting hormone and planted in well-draining, fertile soil, promotes successful establishment of new saplings.

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