Shirish or Lebbek tree, Albizia lebbeck

Shirish or Lebbek tree (Albizia lebbeck, family: Fabaceae) is a large deciduous tree with spreading crown, attaining a height of 15-20 m. The black bark tree is native to Bangladesh as well as Southeast Asia and Australia.

Common names: Shirish, Siris, Kalo koroi, Lebbek tree, Frywood.

Leaves bipinnate with a large gland on the base of petiole, pinnae 2-5 pairs. Leaflets 2.5-4 cm long and 1.5-2 cm wide, ovate, oblong, pale green. Flowers bloom in April-June. 

Flowers are very fragrant, greenish white, heads globose, containing many flowers. Stamens are longer than petals and sepals.

The fruit is a legume, 12-30 cm long and 2-5 cm wide. It contains 6-12 seeds. Propagation of the plant is caused by seeds. Albizia lebbeck is a good timber tree, fast growing and suitable for a forestation. Bark prevents skin diseases and leaf night blindness. It is also useful in tuberculosis, diarrhea and leprosy.