Flame of the Forest
Butea monosperma
Flame of the Forest is a medium-sized deciduous tree native to the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia, renowned for its dazzling clusters of brilliant orange-red flowers that transform entire hillsides into sheets of flame each spring, earning it an iconic place in Indian culture, poetry, and festival tradition.
Fabaceae (Legume family), subfamily Faboideae
Late winter to spring (February–April); flowers appear before the new leaves emerge
Symbolism & Meanings
Key Meanings
Perfect For
Color Meanings
Similar flowers: plumeria albas and jasmines also share similar meanings.
Cultural Significance
Flame of the Forest (Palash) occupies a central place in Indian mythology, religion, and poetry. In Hinduism it is sacred to Brahma, Vishnu, and Agni (the fire god), and its three-leaflet leaf is said to represent the divine trinity. The tree is the state flower of Jharkhand, India. In the Rigveda and later Sanskrit literature, Palash is repeatedly invoked as a symbol of sacred fire, spring, and spiritual devotion. The brilliant orange flowers have been used for millennia to make natural Holi colors, and the sight of hillsides ablaze with Palash blooms has inspired generations of Indian poets and artists. In Buddhist tradition, the tree is associated with auspiciousness and is planted near monasteries.Shop Our Floral Collection
Transform your space with our curated selection of designer floral throw pillows
Visit Full StoreBotanical Information
Physical Characteristics
Natural Habitat
Growing Guide
Sunlight
Full sun; thrives in open areas with maximum sunlight exposure
Water
Drought-tolerant once established; minimal supplemental watering needed in suitable climates
Soil
Well-drained, Sandy, Loamy, Rocky, Poor soils tolerated, Slightly acidic to neutral
Expert Growing Tips
Plant in full sun in well-drained soil — tolerates poor and stony conditions admirably
Water young trees regularly to establish; drought-tolerant once mature
Avoid heavy clay or waterlogged soil
The tree has an irregular, often twisted growth habit — allow sufficient space
Minimal pruning required; best shaped lightly in the dry season
Can be grown from seed soaked overnight before sowing
Uses & Benefits
Ornamental Uses
- Spectacular street and avenue tree in South Asian cities
- Focal specimen in large parks and public gardens
- Sacred temple garden planting
- Natural dye source — flowers yield a vivid orange pigment used in traditional crafts
- Wildlife garden — flowers are a major nectar source for sunbirds and other pollinators
Traditional Uses
- Palash is one of the most important trees in Ayurvedic medicine: bark, seeds, flowers, roots, and gum are all used medicinally
- The flowers are used for their anti-inflammatory and diuretic properties
- Seeds contain palasonin, studied for its anthelmintic (anti-parasitic) properties
- The gum ("Kamarkas") is used in traditional cuisine and as a folk remedy for joint pain and postpartum recovery
- Flowers used to prepare a traditional herbal color for Holi celebrations (a natural alternative to synthetic dyes)
Disclaimer: Information provided is for educational purposes only. Consult healthcare professionals before using any plant medicinally.
Further Reading
Frequently Asked Questions about the Flame of the Forest
What does Flame of the Forest symbolize?
Flame of the Forest symbolizes sacred devotion, spring, and the transformative power of fire. In Hindu tradition it is associated with divine energy and the gods Brahma and Agni. Its vivid orange blooms also represent love, courage, and the joyful arrival of spring, especially in the context of the Holi festival.
Why is Flame of the Forest associated with Holi?
The flowers of Butea monosperma produce a brilliant orange-yellow natural pigment that has been used for centuries to make traditional Holi colors. In many regions of India, collecting and boiling Palash flowers to create herbal color is a longstanding practice, offering a natural and skin-safe alternative to synthetic dyes.
Is Flame of the Forest the same as Red Silk Cotton?
No. Although both are striking orange-red flowering trees that bloom in late winter on bare branches, they are botanically distinct. Flame of the Forest (Butea monosperma) belongs to the legume family and has curved, beak-like flowers, while Red Silk Cotton (Bombax ceiba) belongs to the Malvaceae family and has large, open, five-petaled blooms.
What is the state flower of Jharkhand?
The Flame of the Forest (Palash, Butea monosperma) is the state flower of Jharkhand, India, reflecting its deep cultural and ecological significance across the region's forests and communities.
How do I grow Flame of the Forest?
Flame of the Forest grows best in full sun with well-drained soil and a tropical or subtropical climate. It is highly drought-tolerant once established, tolerates poor soils, and requires minimal care. It is best suited to large gardens or open public spaces given its eventual size.
Available Colors
Quick Facts
Share This Flower
Explore More Beautiful Flowers
Discover other flowers with similar meanings, characteristics, or cultural significance.
Plumeria Alba
Plumeria alba
Plumeria alba is a fragrant tropical flowering tree with pure white flowers and yellow centers. It symbolizes new beginnings, immortality, and spiritual devotion across many cultures.
Jasmine
Jasminum officinale (Common Jasmine), Jasminum sambac (Arabian Jasmine)
Jasmine produces small, intensely fragrant white or yellow flowers. It symbolizes love, sensuality, spirituality, and is prized for its intoxicating scent.
Red Silk Cotton Flower
Bombax ceiba
Red Silk Cotton is a towering tropical tree celebrated for its blazing scarlet flowers that burst open on bare branches in late winter and early spring, long before any leaves appear — creating one of the most spectacular floral displays in the tropical world.