African baobab – Gorakh Chinch

Gorakhchinch, a rare tree in Maharashtra, can be seen on the way to Sri Datta Mandir on the hill at Bhowale in Chaul. It is estimated that this tree, which is native to Africa, Madagascar, and Australia, came to India around 250 to 300 years ago. Gorakh Chinch is also known as Chorchinch in Maharashtra and Monkey Breadtree in other countries. Its height is about 50 feet and trunk circumference can be up to 100 feet. The life of this tree can be up to 1000 years. Although this tree at Chaul is old, it seems that it should not be very old.

The flowers of this tree have 5 petals and long stems, and these flowers bloom at night. Their faint fragrance permeates the area. After the flowers fall, it produces bottle-shaped fruits about 1 foot long. The tamarind fruit has a slightly sweet and slightly bitter taste. Tamarind leaves contain vitamin C, sugars, potassium and tartrate. Its fruit also has many medicinal properties. Syrup of this fruit is cooling and anti-inflammatory compared to other syrups in summer. Because the wood of this tree is soft but durable, it is also used in many places.

One more Gorakhchinch tree can be seen at the back side of Shree Ram Temple at Ramnath, a area near Alibag.

When you visit Alibag, Chaul next time, you should see this rare tree.