Bischofia Javanica, Bishop wood - 0.5 kg Seeds

Bishop wood (Bischofia javanica), called Bhillar or Kanju in parts of India, is a large, fast-growing semi-evergreen tree with a dense, spreading crown and trifoliate, glossy leaves that flush coppery-red when young. It yields a hard, reddish, durable timber and a red sap used as a dye, making it useful for both forestry and ornamental planting.

Native to the moist forests of Northeast India, the sub-Himalayan tract and the Western Ghats, and extending across tropical Asia, it favours river banks and high-rainfall areas. The tree is planted for timber, fuelwood, shade and as a handsome avenue and shade tree, while its bark and leaves have local medicinal uses.

• Family: Phyllanthaceae
• Native region: Northeast India, Western Ghats and tropical Asia
• Mature height: 20-40 m
• Growth rate: Fast

The seeds come from small fleshy berries, so clean off the pulp, then soak the seeds in water for about 24 hours before sowing. Sow shallowly (about 0.5-1 cm) in seed trays or beds of moist, well-drained mix; germination usually takes 2-3 weeks. Prick out and transplant the seedlings into bags, and plant out during the monsoon when they are sturdy.