The miracle of Monsoon

Anogeissus is a genus of trees native to South Asia, the Arabian Peninsula, and Africa. Buttontree is a moderate sized tree with small leaves, which fall early in the dry season. Before falling the foliage of these trees turns a beautiful yellowish red. The leafy branches are pendulous and hang down gracefully. Leaves upto 3 cm appear in nearly opposite pairs. Tiny yellowish green flowers occur in spherical heads about 1 cm wide. Protruding stamens are prominently visible like a fuzz on the round heads. Fruits are sort of circular, clustered in round heads. Flowering: June-September. Popularly called Dhok here in Sawai Madhopur, Rajasthan. Its a tree which is much sort after by the locals for fodder,fuel wood and for making huts. The forests transform from a dry deciduous to lush green with one shower of the monsoon!! The hills come to life and there is so much to eat here!!! Hopefully the animals stop straying into the nearby fields. The Tiger takes a break from the valley and goes to the upper reaches, tired of the painful insects and gnats! Its also the time to make and break and poach territories!!! The forests are green... but beyond... only time will tell...