Pithraj - Aphanamixis polystachya

Common Name :	Pithraj.
Binomial Name :	Aphanamixis polystachya
Family :	Meliaceae
Bangla Name :	Pitraj (পিতরাজ)
Photo Taken :	Bangladesh

Botanical Identity

Aphanamixis polystachya, commonly known as Pithraj Tree, is a tall, evergreen tree belonging to the Meliaceae (mahogany) family. It is native to South and Southeast Asia, particularly found in India, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, and extending into Malaysia. The genus name Aphanamixis refers to the hidden mixing of flower parts, while polystachya means “many spikes,” describing the multiple flowering spikes. In Bengali, it is locally known as Pitraj, and is known for its traditional medicinal value and durable timber.

Plant Description

Pithraj is a large, slow-growing evergreen tree, often reaching up to 20–30 meters in height. It has a straight, cylindrical trunk with greyish bark that flakes off in irregular patches. The leaves are compound, glossy, and dark green, arranged alternately along the branches. The tree prefers tropical to subtropical climates and thrives in well-drained, deep forest soils. It is typically found in moist deciduous to semi-evergreen forests, and occasionally planted for shade or reforestation purposes.

Flowers and Fruit Characteristics

The tree produces small, creamy-white to yellowish flowers arranged in long, spike-like panicles that emerge from leaf axils. These flowers are mildly fragrant and typically bloom during the hot summer months. After flowering, Aphanamixis polystachya bears round to oval capsules that turn reddish or brown when mature. When the fruit opens, it reveals shiny black seeds encased in a bright red aril. These colorful seeds attract birds, which help in seed dispersal.

Uses and Medicinal Importance

The tree has significant medicinal, ecological, and economic uses. In Ayurveda and traditional medicine, various parts of the tree — especially the bark and seeds — are used to treat tumors, ulcers, liver disorders, and inflammation. The seeds yield an oil known as pithraj oil, traditionally used for skin ailments, rheumatism, and as a natural pesticide. The wood is moderately hard and durable, suitable for furniture, cabinetry, and construction.

First time I saw this Pitraj tree in my grandfather's house. Not sure why they planted it. Perhaps it grown naturaly. I never saw anyone to collect the seeds and selling it or making oil on their own. Probably the amount of seeds they had and the effort it took to sell didn't encourage them to do it. Since then we found it as a useless tree as we (childs) always preferred a Mango or similar fruit tree instead of having a Pitraj tree.

A colourful Pitraj fruit which is more attractive than the flower.

Photos of these Pithraj (Aphanamixis polystachya) were taken from the following locations:
1) January 2016: Jamalpur.
2) March 2015: Botanical garden, Dhaka, Bangladesh (Fruit).


Written by Lonely Traveler,
For blog icflora.blogspot.com