In the blazing summers of India, when the sun scorches the earth and most trees wilt in heat, one tree stands out in glorious defiance — Lagerstroemia speciosa, commonly known as Pride of India, Queen’s Crape Myrtle, or Jarul in Hindi.
This vibrant flowering tree is a spectacle of color, grace, and resilience, earning its royal nickname and a place in the heart of Indian landscapes.
🌿 What is the Pride of India?
Lagerstroemia speciosa is a deciduous tree native to South and Southeast Asia. It’s admired for its lavish, crinkled flowers that bloom in striking shades of purple, pink, and lavender, making city avenues, parks, and gardens come alive during the hottest months of the year — typically from April to June.
Growing up to 20 meters tall, this tree is known for its smooth bark, lush green leaves, and clusters of flowers that look almost like silk paper creations. Its presence is not just aesthetic; it also offers shade, beauty, and biodiversity support.
🌸 A Symbol of Beauty and Strength
The name “Pride of India” isn’t just poetic. This tree is celebrated in Indian art, poetry, and folklore as a symbol of grace, endurance, and seasonal rhythm. It stands tall when most other plants wither, representing the resilience and vibrant spirit of India, especially during summer.
In many Indian cities, especially in the south and central regions, tree-lined avenues bursting with Jarul blossoms are a familiar and cherished sight.
🌼 Botanical Highlights
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Scientific Name: Lagerstroemia speciosa
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Common Names: Pride of India, Queen’s Crape Myrtle, Jarul (Hindi), Tāmhan (Marathi)
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Family: Lythraceae
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Native to: India, Sri Lanka, Philippines, and Malaysia
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Flowering Season: Summer (April–June)
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Height: Up to 20 meters
Its leaves turn a beautiful copper-red in autumn before falling, and the woody fruits that follow flowering are capsule-shaped, adding ornamental value even after the blooms are gone.
💚 Ecological & Medicinal Value
Pride of India is more than just a pretty face:
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🌱 Supports Wildlife: Its flowers attract bees, butterflies, and birds, playing a vital role in urban biodiversity.
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🌿 Medicinal Uses: In Ayurveda and traditional medicine, the tree is known for its anti-diabetic, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties. Its leaves are used to manage blood sugar levels.
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🌳 Air Purification: Like many trees, it contributes to cleaner air and cooler microclimates, especially important in cities.
🌍 A Tree for Urban Beauty and Sustainability
Because of its hardiness, moderate water needs, and stunning seasonal display, Pride of India is widely planted as a street tree, in parks, and along institutional campuses.
Its ability to thrive in tough conditions, along with its stunning floral show, makes it ideal for sustainable urban landscaping.
🌸 Cultural Significance
In Maharashtra, the flower of Lagerstroemia speciosa — locally known as Tāmhan — is the state flower. It is also featured in local poetry and rural traditions, admired for its royal purple hue and soft, papery texture.
🌺 Final Thoughts: A Tree Worth Celebrating
The Pride of India is more than just a summer flower — it’s a reminder of beauty in adversity, of natural splendor in the heart of our cities. Whether standing tall in a garden or blooming quietly by a roadside, its vibrant blossoms speak to the resilience and colorful diversity of the Indian spirit.
So, the next time you see a burst of purple under the summer sun, take a moment to admire it — you’re in the presence of one of India’s most beloved botanical treasures.