The 18th Exposition of the Sacred Relics of St Francis Xavier, popularly known as Gõycho Saib is being held from November 21, 2024 to January 5, 2025. This important religious event of Goa is taking place at Se Cathedral, in Old Goa, which is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The 17th century cathedral is famous for many reasons — mainly its history, architecture, and overall grandeur.
However, there's another aspect that easily captures the attention of plant enthusiasts, and that’s the beautiful Pink Trumpet Tree (Tabebuia rosea) in the vicinity.
Pink Trumpet Trees can be seen just outside the cathedral and the Basilica of Bom Jesus. And, if you happen to be there in the months of December and January, you will be greeted by this stunning flowering tree in bloom.
These trees will be filled with pretty light pink flowers, making you feel like you are in some kind of dreamland.
Horticulturist and tree expert, Miguel Braganza, mentions that these trees were probably planted by the ASI (Archaeological Survey of India) before the 1974 exposition.
“They were most probably planted by N Rama Rao, the botany graduate who was in charge of landscaping for the Directorate of Archaeology & Museums, Goa, before the 1974 exposition.”
This means that these flowering trees, in Old Goa, are at least 50-years-old.
During winter, the tree sheds its leaves, and then, starts flowering from January to March. The best part is the carpet of pink flowers that forms beneath this tree.
This tree is not very common in urban spaces of Goa, unlike the rain tree or copper pod tree. It blooms for only a few months each year, and for the rest of the time, its canopy is insignificant, causing it to go unnoticed when it's not in bloom.
In Panjim city, some of these trees are found near the ferry point just opposite Hotel Mandovi. There’s a lone tree standing at St Inez (near the church), at the Children’s Park (Campal) and also at the Jogger’s Park (Altinho, Panjim).
During winter, the tree sheds its leaves, and then, starts flowering from January to March. The best part is the carpet of pink flowers that forms beneath this tree.
The tree doesn't bear fruit, but instead produces pods that contain seeds. Its bark is known for its medicinal properties.
Many a time, due to its pink flowers, it is confused with the cherry blossom tree which is usually found in colder regions like Japan. In India, cherry trees are found in the state of Meghalaya, where there is even a festival to celebrate this blossom.
On social media, you will even come across reels claiming that this tree is a cherry blossom tree.
There are several subspecies within the Tabebuia genus, such as Tabebuia avellanedae, which has dark pink flowers, and Tabebuia argentea, known for its yellow blooms.
In Goa, the most common variety is Tabebuia rosea, but a few Tabebuia argentea trees, with their yellow flowers, can be found in Old Goa, though they are rare.
The trees outside the basilica and cathedral are some of the finest examples of the Pink Trumpet Tree.
So, the next time you visit this area, make sure to take a moment to admire this tree, which will surely transport you into a meditative state with its ethereal beauty and appearance.