Question

Name one important avenue tree.

Hint:

When selecting an avenue tree, consider its root system (to avoid damaging infrastructure), canopy spread, growth rate, and tolerance to pollution. Native species like Neem and Ashoka are often preferred as they support local biodiversity and require less maintenance.

Answer 1

An avenue tree is a tree planted along roadsides, streets, avenues, or pathways for ornamental, shade-providing, and aesthetic purposes. These trees are chosen for their tall stature, dense canopy, fast growth, and ability to withstand pollution and harsh roadside conditions.
Answer: One important avenue tree is the Neem Tree (\textit{Azadirachta indica}).
Alternative Important Avenue Trees: While Neem is a prominent example, several other trees are also commonly planted as avenue trees. Below are some important ones with their characteristics:
1. Neem Tree (\textit{Azadirachta indica}):

• Description: A large, fast-growing evergreen tree with a dense, spreading crown.
• Features: Provides excellent shade, has medicinal properties, and is highly drought-resistant.
• Common Locations: Widely planted along roadsides in India and other tropical regions.
• Benefits: Air purification, medicinal uses (leaves, bark, oil), and tolerance to pollution.

2. Ashoka Tree (\textit{Saraca asoca}):

• Description: A beautiful, evergreen tree with dark green foliage and fragrant, bright orange-red flowers.
• Features: Known for its ornamental value and cultural significance in India.
• Common Locations: Planted along avenues, in gardens, and near temples.
• Benefits: Aesthetic appeal, shade, and medicinal properties.

3. Gulmohar (\textit{Delonix regia}):

• Description: A stunning deciduous tree known for its vibrant red-orange flowers that bloom in summer.
• Features: Provides dappled shade and spectacular floral display.
• Common Locations: Widely planted along avenues in tropical and subtropical regions.
• Benefits: Ornamental beauty, shade, and soil improvement.

4. Banyan Tree (\textit{Ficus benghalensis}):

• Description: A massive, long-lived tree with aerial roots that grow into new trunks.
• Features: Provides extensive shade and is considered sacred in India.
• Common Locations: Planted in large open spaces, along wide avenues, and near villages.
• Benefits: Immense shade, cultural significance, and habitat for wildlife.

5. Peepal Tree (\textit{Ficus religiosa}):

• Description: A large, fast-growing deciduous tree with heart-shaped leaves.
• Features: Sacred in Hinduism and Buddhism; known for oxygen release even at night.
• Common Locations: Planted along roadsides, near temples, and in public spaces.
• Benefits: Shade, religious significance, and air purification.

6. Amaltas (\textit{Cassia fistula}):

• Description: A medium-sized tree with beautiful hanging clusters of bright yellow flowers.
• Features: Also known as the Indian Laburnum; flowers in summer, creating a spectacular display.
• Common Locations: Planted along avenues and in gardens for ornamental purposes.
• Benefits: Ornamental value, medicinal uses, and shade.

7. Jacaranda (\textit{Jacaranda mimosifolia}):

• Description: A beautiful tree with fern-like leaves and clusters of purple-blue flowers.
• Features: Provides stunning floral beauty and light shade.
• Common Locations: Planted along avenues in temperate and subtropical regions.
• Benefits: Ornamental value and aesthetic appeal.

8. Rain Tree (\textit{Albizia saman}):

• Description: A large, spreading tree with a broad umbrella-like canopy.
• Features: Provides dense shade; leaves fold during rainy weather.
• Common Locations: Widely planted along roadsides and in parks in tropical regions.
• Benefits: Excellent shade, nitrogen fixation (improves soil fertility).

Characteristics of a Good Avenue Tree:

• Tall and Straight Trunk: Allows unobstructed movement of vehicles and pedestrians.
• Dense Canopy: Provides ample shade and reduces heat.
• Fast Growing: Establishes quickly and provides benefits sooner.
• Hardiness: Tolerant to pollution, drought, and roadside stressors.
• Non-Invasive Roots: Roots should not damage roads, pavements, or underground utilities.
• Aesthetic Appeal: Attractive foliage, flowers, or form enhances the beauty of the avenue.
• Low Maintenance: Requires minimal pruning and care.

Summary: An important avenue tree is the Neem tree, valued for its dense shade, medicinal properties, and adaptability to roadside conditions. Other notable avenue trees include Ashoka, Gulmohar, Banyan, Peepal, Amaltas, Jacaranda, and Rain Tree, each offering unique benefits in terms of shade, beauty, and environmental contribution.