Indian Beech

Millettia pinnata (previously named Derris indica), commonly called Indian Beech, is a shrub or tree of about 8 metres height, while it may reach 25 metres in its homelands from India to Thailand. It has been planted in many places in Arriyadh. The gnarled, fissured trunk bears a wide-spreading crown with weeping branches. Young foliage is reddish at first, turning dark-green with age. Leaves are dropped in early spring, but are replaced a few weeks later. They are arranged alternately, pinnate and attract the eye with their shiny surface. Strongly fragrant flowers are borne on drooping racemes. They appear in late spring and summer, either in white or pink with a purple throat, and are followed by leathery, brown pods. Indian Beeches are absolutely resistant to salinity and high alkalinity, since they occur naturally along seashores together with mangroves, where they are used to water-logging. They also tolerate drought, together with shade and full sun. Seedlings are not as tough, but once grown up, they also tolerate some frost and desert heat. This tree seems to adapt to any condition, but looks best if planted in deep, well-drained soil that retains some moisture or receives frequent irrigation. The tree propagates readily by its bean-like seeds and plenty of root suckers. Pruning is required to lead the Indian Beech from a shrub into a tree. It rejuvenates when pollarded or even coppiced. It is an ornamental tree for gardens, parks and avenues, where it should be lined up at intervals of about 8 metres.