It is a deciduous tree with reddish-brown bark, which exfoliates in to thin circular strips and reaching a height of 10m. Leaves are conduplicate in bud, elliptic or ovate - lanceolate, with acuminate apex and both glabrous surfaces and dark glossy and shining above, finely simple or double serrate, with gland tip teeth; petioles 1.2 to 2.0 cm long. Flowers are pinkish-white and appearing before the leaves in umbellate fascicles. Calyx is bell shaped and 5 lobed. Petals are 5, obovate. The fruits are ovoid, glabrous and shining and red in colour, when ripe.

Astringent.

Plants for a Future

Amygdalin and prunasin

The juice of the bark can be applied externally to treat backaches.In small amounts this stimulates respiration, improves digestion and gives a sense of well-being.

Sharma PV. Classical Uses of Medicinal Plants.