Holoptelea integrifolia, or Indian elm, is a large deciduous tree that can reach heights of 20–25 metres (rarely exceeding 30 metres). The bark of old trees is a drab grey, and blisters and flakes off in corky scales. The flowers are small and hairy, and can range in colour from dark green to dark brown. Know about Ravenala Madagascariensis: Facts, features, growth, maintenance, and uses
Holoptelea integrifolia is a multipurpose tree, used both as building material and fuel in rural settings. Due to its high-temperature tolerance, sturdy build, and regenerative capabilities can also be used in ecological forestry. Oil is extracted from the tree’s roots, and the rest of it is used in traditional Indian medicine. Sapsucker woodpeckers love to eat the sap from young Holoptelea integrifolia trees. Know about Tephrosia Purpurea: Facts, features, growth, maintenance, and uses
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Holoptelea integrifolia: Key facts
| Common name | Indian elm |
| Botanical name | Holoptelea integrifolia |
| Family | Ulmaceae |
| Soil | Loamy, clay soil |
| Flowering | January-February |
| Height | 20-30 m |
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Holoptelea integrifolia: Growing tips
- A place with healthy, well-drained soil and either full sun or mild shade are the best conditions for growing Holoptelea integrifolia plants.
- During the months of April and May, the newly collected seeds are immediately planted on the primary bed after being covered with a thin layer of dirt.
- Avoiding areas with compacted soil is essential, and so is performing routine weeding and working the soil to break it up.
- It is essential to have shade from above.
- Between the months of June and July, seedlings are transferred into polybags.
Holoptelea integrifolia: Maintenance tips
Soil
Sandy or loamy soils with gravelly subsoil and good drainage are best for plantations because the roots can’t tolerate prolonged wetness.
Watering
It will be necessary for you to water your newly planted Holoptelea integrifolia tree on a regular basis as it begins to mature. Check the moisture content of the soil and the water level at least twice or three times a week for the first two weeks using a moisture metre.
Fertilising
The saplings should be fertilised annually in the spring with a balanced fertiliser. The tree can be damaged if too much fertiliser is used, so make sure to strictly adhere to the directions on the package. An occasional small dusting of fertiliser is fine for older trees that aren’t putting on much new growth, but they don’t require it every year.
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Holoptelea integrifolia: Medicinal uses
- The bark and leaves are employed in the treatment of oedema, diabetes, leprosy and other skin ailments, digestive disorders, piles, and sprue. They are utilised topically to cure boils, swellings, and rheumatic pain.
- Minerals, phenolic compounds (flavonoids), carbohydrates, proteins, amino acids, and saponins can all be found in this plant.
- Traditionally, the medicines derived from this tree have been used to cure inflammation, piles, menstrual problems, and biliousness.
Holoptelea integrifolia: Other uses
- It is utilised locally for construction, cart manufacturing, statue carving, etc.
- The unripe fruit is consumed.
FAQs:
What are the uses of Holoptelea integrifolia?
The tree is wild-harvested for medicine, food, oil, and timber.
How do Holoptelea integrifolia seeds get spread around?
The wind spreads the seeds.