The four stamps on this FDC depict trees found in various parts of India.
(60P) The CHINAR (PLATANUS ORIENTALIS), of the family 'Platanacae' and a native of the Eastern Mediterranean Region, has found a home in the Western Himalayas at 1200-2400 m. Thriving on moist and well drained soils, it provides timber for furniture and is also of medicinal value. It rises 30m. in height with a short trunk and a spreading crown. Its bark is dull greyish or greenish white. The tree stands at its loveliest in Autumn.
(Rs1.50) The SAL (SHOREA ROBUSTA ROXB) belongs to the genus 'Shorea', resiniferous trees found in India, the Malaysian Peninsula and South East Asia. Covering 13.3% of the total forest area in India, it is valued for its timber. It attains a height of 18-30 m. A large deciduous tree with longitudinal cracks on its bark, it has long ovate leaves and pale yellow flowers, covered with soft white hair, scattered on the stalk. Sal finds mention even in the Ramayana and Mahabharata and in Kalidasa's 'Ritu-samhar' and 'Meghadoota'.
(Rs5.00) The PEEPAL (FICUS RELIGIOSA LINN) is an indigenous fig tree of the family 'Moraceae'. In its younger stages it is often epiphytic, growing on and gradually strangling other trees with its roots. The leaves and young branches are smooth and shiny, the leaves are heart-shaped, tapering into a long tail at the apex. Growing wild on the lower slopes of the Himalayas, it is now found in most parts of India. It is venerated by Hindus and Buddhists.
(Rs6.50) The BANYAN (FICUS BENGHALENSIS) belongs to the genus 'Ficus', the fig. moostly inhabiting tropical countries. Colloquially called the 'Bargad' or 'Vat', it is a beautiful tree, and is also of economic value. A giant tree with a spreading crown, attaining at times 3035m., it has obovate, simple leaves, shiny above and pale yellow. Hindus consider it sacred and worship it in many temples. Its lateral spread can pose problems for neighbouring plants. The Calcutta Botanical Gardens contain a Banyan covering 1.7 hectares, considered over 225 years old.
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