Family: FABACEAE/PAPILIONACEAE
Also known as derris, oil tree, pongam, ponga, kona, kanji, paripari, karanda and karanja, this is a leguminous medium - sized, deciduous, thornless tree (to 8 m) with spreading or drooping branches. Originally native to India, it is now widely distributed throughout the world. It is considered fast growing, reaching mature height in 4 - 5 years.
Mature trees withstand temperatures from below 0oC to 50°C and thrive from sea level to 1200 m altitude. They require a rainfall from 500 - 2,500 mm and grow wild on sandy and rocky soils. They will grow on most soil types, including limestone and are highly tolerant of salinity even with the roots in salt water.
It is a valued livestock tree, especially in arid areas. Grasses grow well in its shade, and the foliage is probably high in protein.
The seeds contain a yellow or red - brown oil (30 - 40%) which is not edible but can be used as a lubricant or as a fuel for kerosene lamps. It is also used as a leather dressing, in soap manufac-turing and in varnishes and paints. It is also reputed to have antiseptic value in treating human and animal skin diseases.
The dried leaves have an odour which repels insects and are used to protect stored grain from insects. They are also ploughed into the soil as a green manure and are said to repel nematodes.
The presscake left after the oil has been extracted is sought after by Indian farmers as an insecticide and has also been demonstrated to be a good poultry feed.
The bark fibre is used to make rope which is very strong, and the wood is a good firewood with a calorific value of 4600 kcal\kg. The wood is coarse textured and although somewhat difficult to work is often used in cabinet making because of its beautiful grain. It is also used for making cartwheels and posts.
The seeds remain viable for a long time and it grows readily from cuttings of all sizes. The seedlings transplant easily. The root system is extensive at the surface and it suckers readily. It creates a lot of litter from leaf, flower and pod drop.