Khirni Plant
The Khirni plant (Manilkara hexandra), also known as Rayan or Khirni, is a slow-growing evergreen tree native to India, Sri Lanka, and parts of Southeast Asia. Here are some key details about the Khirni plant:
Characteristics:
- Size: Khirni trees typically grow to a height of 10 to 15 meters but can reach up to 20 meters under favorable conditions.
- Leaves: The leaves are simple, alternate, and leathery with a glossy surface, usually oblong or elliptical in shape.
- Flowers: The tree produces small, greenish-white flowers, which are usually clustered. They are not very conspicuous but have a pleasant fragrance.
- Fruit: The fruit is small, about 1 to 2 cm in diameter, and turns yellow when ripe. The pulp of the fruit is sweet and edible, often consumed fresh or dried. It also contains a single large seed.
Uses:
- Edible Fruit: The fruits are eaten fresh and are known for their sweet flavor. They are also used in making traditional sweets and desserts.