Himachal’s very own wild cherry blossom
Locally known as Pajja in the Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh, the Wild Himalayan Cherry is native to the lower Himalayan region. The tree bears bitter fruits that the locals don’t consume, but its pink blossoms envelop the landscape beautifully in November.
Padmak (Prunus cerasoides), usually known as the Wild Himalayan Cherry is a tree that flowers from late October to November, making for a delightful sight amid verdant greenery in the lower Himalayan forests.
Growing at an altitude of 1,000-2,000 metres in the lower Himalayan region, the tree is found in Himachal and Uttarakhand. It has immense health benefits and is credited with treating different ailments in Ayurveda.
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From its seeds to the fruit, bark, and gums, it is all used in Ayurvedic medicine for preparing several herbal formulations. Ayurveda considers this an important plant as it can treat many skin diseases and has uses as a uterine tonic as well.
The seeds are used for treating kidney stones and bleeding disorders in Ayurveda. The flowers are recognised for their laxative traits, too. Every part of this plant is known to have high benefits in Ayurveda.
In Himachal’s Kangra region, the tree is called pajja. Most locals are oblivious to its health benefits as the fruit can neither be eaten nor cooked due to its bitter taste.
The leaves are used as fodder for livestock. Goats and cows can be seen grazing on its leaves in the village. In winter, the wood is used for cooking or heating to brave the Himalayan chill.
The tree can grow up to a height of 30 feet depending on its growth and area. However, locals in Bir village have always seen it around, and no one really remembers ever planting this tree.
The bark can peel off in a single pull sometimes if the tree is fully formed. The village elders remember writing on the bark to send notes far away.
The tree can be found from Kashmir to Bhutan, and the Khasi Hills in Assam and Manipur as well. The pink flowers have a lotus-like fragrance, giving it its name Padmak.
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The lead image on top depicts a Wild Himalayan Cherry tree, also known as Padmak, in full bloom.
Reporting and photography by Novita Singh, Associate Director, Video at Village Square.