What is the scientific name of the ashoka tree?

The scientific name of the ashoka tree is "Saraca indica." This small evergreen tree is native to India and is found at elevations up to 2,500 feet.

The tree reaches heights of 15 to 20 feet and has leaves up to 1 foot in length. The ashoka tree bears fragrant flowers throughout much of the year, with orange to scarlet petals being especially noticeable in January and February.

The smooth gray-to-brown bark is valued for its medicinal use in stimulating endometrium and ovarian tissue and in stopping internal bleeding. The tree also carries religious value to Buddhists and Hindus, who commonly plant the tree around places of worship.