Know the link between this tree in Goa and the Kadamba dynasty

Samrudhdi Kerkar

TROPICAL GEM

Neolamarckia cadamba, commonly known as the kadamba or burflower tree, is a lush evergreen tree, native to South and Southeast Asia.

Goa | evergreen tree | South Asia | Neolamarckia cadamba | Kadamba | Burflower | Photo: Samrudhdi Kerkar

A BLOOM LIKE NO OTHER

Its golden-yellow, globe-shaped flowers emit a sweet fragrance and are even used in perfumes.

Goa | evergreen tree | South Asia | Neolamarckia cadamba | Kadamba | Burflower | Photo: Samrudhdi Kerkar

TREE OF THE GODS

In North India, the tree is believed to be loved by Lord Krishna. Whereas in the south, it's known as 'Parvati’s tree.' Legends say that Radha and Krishna played beneath its scented shade.

Goa | evergreen tree | South Asia | Neolamarckia cadamba | Kadamba | Burflower | Photo: Samrudhdi Kerkar

MONSOON BLOOMS

At the onset of the monsoon and also in winter, thousands of globus flowers burst into bloom, filling the air with a heavenly fragrance and inviting pollinators.

Goa | evergreen tree | South Asia | Neolamarckia cadamba | Kadamba | Burflower | Photo: Samrudhdi Kerkar

PARADISE FOR BIRDS

Once it flowers, the tree teems with life. Birds, insects, squirrels and even monkeys flock to it.

Goa | evergreen tree | South Asia | Neolamarckia cadamba | Kadamba | Burflower | Photo: Samrudhdi Kerkar

FAV SPOT FOR BUTTERFLIES

The kadamba is a butterfly haven! One can spot many species, including Asia’s largest, the Southern Birdwing, fluttering around its blooms.

Goa | evergreen tree | South Asia | Neolamarckia cadamba | Kadamba | Burflower | Photo: Samrudhdi Kerkar

NIGHTLIFE, KADAMBA STYLE

As the sun sets, bats and moths take over. The tree hums with nocturnal life, offering a rich buffet under the moonlight.

Goa | evergreen tree | South Asia | Neolamarckia cadamba | Kadamba | Burflower | Photo: Samrudhdi Kerkar

EDIBLE & HEALING

The golden blossoms are edible and used in traditional recipes in some parts of India. They also have medicinal benefits .

Goa | evergreen tree | South Asia | Neolamarckia cadamba | Kadamba | Burflower | Photo: Samrudhdi Kerkar

VERSATILE & VALUABLE

Kadamba leaves are fed to cattle. The tree is prized for its ornamental value and is also used in timber and paper-making.

Goa | evergreen tree | South Asia | Neolamarckia cadamba | Kadamba | Burflower | Photo: Samrudhdi Kerkar

KADAMBA IN LITERATURE

This beautiful tree has inspired poets through the ages, finding its way into the verses of Kalidasa, Rabindranath Tagore, and Goa’s beloved B B Borkar.

Goa | evergreen tree | South Asia | Neolamarckia cadamba | Kadamba | Burflower | Photo: Samrudhdi Kerkar

ROYAL LEGACY

The Kadamba dynasty, known as Goa’s golden era, is believed to have taken its name from this sacred tree, honouring it as the totem tree.

Goa | evergreen tree | South Asia | Neolamarckia cadamba | Kadamba | Burflower | Photo: Samrudhdi Kerkar

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