Terminalia elliptica, commonly known as asna, Indian laurel, or crocodile bark, is a deciduous tree native to the dry and moist deciduous forests of southern and southeast Asia, including India, Nepal, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, and Vietnam, typically found at elevations up to 3281 feet. It can grow up to 98 feet tall with a notable straight trunk and a rounded crown. The tree’s bark resembles crocodile skin, giving it one of its common names, and it is known for its fire-resistant properties. The leaves are broadly oval, and the tree produces small, yellow to white flowers in terminal spikes, followed by winged fruits that are dispersed by wind. Flowering occurs from March to May.

Terminalia elliptica is valued for its durable, high-quality timber used in furniture, cabinetwork, joinery, and musical instruments. Its fire-resistant bark has been traditionally used in construction and medicinally against diarrhea. The tree’s cultural significance is noted in Theravada Buddhism, where it is believed to have been used by the twentieth Tissa Buddha to achieve enlightenment. In cultivation, it requires a well-drained soil, moderate water, and can tolerate a range of light conditions from full sun to part shade. While it is not commonly found in Western gardens, it can be an attractive addition to large spaces due to its impressive size and unique bark texture.CC BY-SA 4.0