Savar tree is nature’s tribute to spring in Goa

Samrudhdi Kerkar

A BURST OF COLOURS

With the arrival of spring, many trees burst into bloom. Amidst this annual display, the Bombax ceiba, with its bold and fiery red flowers, stands out as one of the most striking symbols of the season.

Bombax ceiba | Spring symbol | Savar tree | Tropical beauty | Photo: Samrudhdi Kerkar

FLORAL BEACON

A dominant species in tropical dry deciduous forests, it is widely found across India.

Bombax ceiba | Spring symbol | Savar tree | Tropical beauty | Photo: Samrudhdi Kerkar

COTTON BOUNTY

The tree produces a capsule containing seeds surrounded by fluffy cotton-like fibres, which is why it's called the "silk tree." These fibres are light and are often used for stuffing in pillows and cushions.

Silk tree | Fluffy fibres | Cotton capsule | Pillow stuffing | Benefits | Photo: Samrudhdi Kerkar

SPIKED SENTINEL

Bombax ceiba is locally known as Savar or Katesavar due to its its thorn-covered bark.

Savar tree | Katesavar | Thorn covered | Prickly protector | Nature’s Armour | Photo: Samrudhdi Kerkar

CRIMSON BEAUTY

The Savar’s flowers are nothing short of spectacular. Bright red, with thick and velvety petals, the centre of the flower, with its pollen-laden stamens, has a delicate shape reminiscent of a shuttlecock.

Savar tree | Bright red flowers | Nature's bloom | Pollen attraction | Photo: Samrudhdi Kerkar

THE HEALING BLOOM

Chewing its raw flowers relieves muscle pain, while a paste of its bark is believed to ease pain when applied on the affected area.

Savar tree | Medicinal prowess | Healer | Flower power | Photo: Samrudhdi Kerkar

VERY INVITING

Its nectar attracts many birds and bees, including the rare vernal hanging parrot.

Birds and bees | Pollinator hub | Floral nectar | Eco biodiversity | Photo: Samrudhdi Kerkar

SACRED SYMBOL

A Savar stick is worshipped during marriage rituals, a reflection of the deep connection between nature and the traditions that sustain communities. Its soft, light wood is also used for making matchsticks.

Savar stick | Sacred wood | Marriage traditions | Cultural connection | Photo: Samrudhdi Kerkar

NATURE'S FLAVOUR

Called seemal in Hindi, its flowers are used for preparing tea in some places, while its tender buds are used for making pickles and vegetables.

Seemal | Red blooms | Tea | Pickles | Tender buds | Photo: Samrudhdi Kerkar

VITAL ATTRACTION

This magnificent tree, with its brilliant red flowers, is not just a beacon of beauty amidst the arid surroundings—it is also a vital hub for life, attracting a variety of pollinators, particularly mynas.

Bombax ceiba | Pollinators | Mynas | Attraction | Red blooms | Photo: Samrudhdi Kerkar

NEXT: Summer is here and so are Goa's seasonal fruits

SEE MORE