The Indian mast tree, Plant Profile and Landscaping Uses
Polyalthia longifolia or ‘Indian mast tree’ or ‘False Ashoka’ is a native tree from Pakistan and India. The common name of ‘Mast Tree’ comes from the time when its straight trunk was used to make masts for small sailing ships.
Description
An evergreen tree with its attractive downward sloping branches and nice green foliage it is a useful landscaping tree and works well when planted as a screening tree.
Useful for noise reduction due to its dense growth habit. Polyalthia nitidissima is also worth considering.
Reaching between 15 an 20m in height depending on conditions, it is the strong upright or columnar habit along with the dense glossy green foliage that weeps down close to the trunk that give the tree its appeal.
Small lime to mid green flowers are followed by deep red fruit.
Useful in subtropical to tropical areas where conifers do not grow well. A humus rich well drained soil is essential. A frost free position is essential.
This is a brilliant tree to plant next to tall buildings and units where it narrow columnar habit can act as a visual break between sections of the building.
It can also be planted in avenues for a stunning effect.
How To Grow The India Mast Tree Care
This is a plant that requires a warmth and a good humus rich soil to thrive.
- Full sun.
- Humus rich soil.
- Best in tropical to sub tropical climates.
Polyalthia longifolia Problems
- The fruit can attract flying foxes, however they do not fruit prolifically in many areas.
- You may need to prune to maintain a strictly columnar habit.