Question

Prepare a Fact file of any of the following plants / trees, using the points given.

[coconut / neem / basil / cactus / apple]

• Name of Plant / Tree .................
• Scientific name .................
• Region and climate .................
• Features .................
• Growth .................
• Size, shape and colour .................
• Uses .................
• Any special feature .................

Answer 1

• Name of Plant / Tree: Neem
• Scientific name: Azadirachta Indica
• Region and climate: Native to India, but also grown in Nepal, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh. It grows in tropical and semitropical regions and requires a sub-arid and sub-humid climate. It can tolerate temperatures of up to 50 degrees Celsius.
• Features: It is a tall evergreen tree that bears flowers and fruit. Neem tree has a similar appearance to the Chinaberry tree.
• Growth: It is a fast-growing tree and requires plenty of sunlight to grow healthily.
• Size, shape and colour: The tree can reach a height of about 16-21 metres. It has wide branches and a dense, roundish crown. The leaves are pinnate and alternating. They can be about 20-40 cm long. The tree has green to dark green leaves and white flowers. It has a straight trunk and rough, scaly bark. It grows a fruit that is oval or round in shape and has a thin skin.
• Uses: Various parts of the neem tree are used for the following purposes:
  1. The neem leaves are used to treat skin ailments, and the powder is taken as a herbal supplement to moisturise the skin.
  2. Neem oil, obtained from its seeds, is used in skin care products, pesticides and in organic gardening.
  3. The bark of the tree is used in dental care for its antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties.
  4. The twigs of the tree are used as a natural toothbrush in Indian villages as they prevent cavities and gum diseases.
• Any special feature: It is one of the very few shade-giving trees in the dry, drought-prone regions of India.