Bio Diversity Park

Common Name : Sacred fig tree, Bodhi tree

Hindi Name : पीपल | Scientific Name : Ficus religiosa
Family : Moraceae
Uses : The specific epithet religiosa indicates the religious significance of this tree. No other tree is claimed to have such long life - one in Sri Lanka, said to have been planted in the year 288 B.C., still lives and flourishes. A grand peepal tree is a perfect shade tree, and village meetings are often conducted under a peepal tree. Edible Fruits. The fruit can be used to treat poison, heart disease and asthma. The bark is used to treat many diseases, such like scabies, ulcers and inflammation. Leaves can be used for wound healing. This tree is sacred to Hindus and Buddhists, usually planted around temples. It is said that the Buddha sat under this tree when he achieved Realization. There are 5 individuals of Ficus religiosa listed as Heritage Trees in Singapore. They are found all over various parts of Singapore.
Native: South east Pakistan to Myanmar
General Description:

It is a large deciduous tree with a pale stem often appearing fluted on account of the numerous roots which have fused with the stem. Leaves leathery 4-8 inches long by 3-5 inches wide, somewhat egg-shaped or rounded, tailed at the tip and heart-shaped at the base, or sometimes rounded. The young leaves are frequently pink, change to copper and finally to green. Flowers minute within the receptacle. This tree is monoecious. Fruits are borne axillary in pairs, sometimes single, subglobose, measuring 1-1.5 cm in diameter. Fruits turn red or purple when ripe.