Cynometra ramiflora, commonly known as the shalbon or the shal tree, is a tree species found in the Sundarbans, a mangrove forest located in the delta region of the Ganges, Brahmaputra, and Meghna rivers.
In the Sundarbans, Cynometra ramiflora is found in the hinterland, which is the area that lies behind the tidal zone. The tree can grow up to 20 meters tall and has a straight trunk with a spreading crown. Its leaves are dark green and leathery, and its flowers are small and greenish-yellow in color.
The wood of Cynometra ramiflora is valued for its strength and durability, and is used in construction, furniture making, and boat building. Additionally, the tree’s bark, leaves, and fruit are used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments, such as diarrhea, dysentery, and skin diseases.
Cynometra ramiflora is an important species in the Sundarbans ecosystem, providing habitat and food for a variety of animal species, including birds, monkeys, and deer. The tree is also able to tolerate saltwater and tidal inundation, making it an important component of the Sundarbans forest.
Overall, Cynometra ramiflora is an important tree species in the Sundarbans, both culturally and ecologically. Its wood and medicinal properties are valued by local communities, while its ability to thrive in the challenging Sundarbans environment makes it an important component of the forest ecosystem.