A 500-700 year old tree near Dhaka

A massive Khirni tree (botanical name: Manilkara hexandra) is situated in Hiranal village near the Purbachal suburb of Dhaka. Local estimates suggest the tree is between 500 to 700 years old, with residents noting that at least five generations have heard from their elders that it was already a century-old tree. The tree, locally known as ‘Shirnigach’ due to a variation in pronunciation , has a trunk so large that several people cannot encircle it by holding hands. The tree is highly valued by villagers who protect it. The Khirni tree is part of the ‘kheeribriksha’ family, known for the milky sap (latex) released when its parts are broken , and it is important for the rootstock of the Safeda graft. In the months of Phagun-Chaitra, the tree is filled with yellow ripe fruits that children collect and eat. The author, an agriculturist and nature writer, emphasizes the historical value of the tree and urges the government to list and preserve such centenarian trees in the country.

Source: Based on reporting from Prothom Alo