Pongamia pinnata, also known as Indian beech tree or Pongam oil tree, is commonly seen in mangrove forests and deciduous forests of the Indo-Malayan region. It is a fast growing medium sized tree which is evergreen by nature. In Malayalam, it is called 'Ungu'.
Morphology: Evergreen trees reaching up to 20 meter height. Leaves are imparipinnate, alternate arrangement, 5-7 leaflets are present, pubescent, ovate, acuminate apex, leaf margin entire, calyx 5, petals 5, stamens 10, monadelphous, ovary inferior with single chamber, fruit is a pod, reniform seeds.
Habitat: Deciduous and mangrove forests.
Uses:
1. Potential source of biodiesel.
2. Traditional medicine for bronchitis, whooping cough and rheumatism.
3. Used in itches and skin diseases.
4. Bark used for piles when bleeding.
5. Used as remedy for diabetes.
6. Roots used for cleaning gum and ulcer.
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