What comes to your mind when you think of a beautiful, bushy, fragrant flowering plant? Perhaps, Champa? Frangipani or Plumeria has been dominating landscapes since time immemorial; be it a small window or balcony or a large outdoor garden, this is the most fascinating plant one can have. Though, we are discussing the underdog here – Son Champa (Magnoliachampaca).
A long forgotten native tree of India, it is known by many names. Son Chafa in Maharashtra, Swarna Champa in northern parts of India, Champaca, etc. It’s enchanting fragrance makes it unforgettable and unescapable. Hardy and evergreen in nature, it can grow into a fully-grown tree in an open, outdoor environment.
Rich in history and in medicinal properties, Son Champa holds immense significance in our culture. It is widely used across temples for worship, sold especially during Diwali festivities, used in decorations in several forms and also widely consumed in perfume-making.
This plant is also very useful in agroforestry as it fixes nitrogen in the soil, thus maintaining soil health and helping other plants to co-exist. From anti-cancer to antimicrobial, antioxidant properties, several parts of Son Champa are extensively used in medicine too. One doesn’t need to be a specialist to identify this plant. It’s far-reaching aroma, delicate yellow petals, tall tree structure makes it stand out from the rest.
If you’re looking for a perennial supply of fragrance in your landscape, then ditch the plumeria and bring home Son Champa!
By Dipti Agarwal
