Nettilingam (Monoon longifolium)

Nettilingam is the mast tree or false ashoka, the tall, narrow tree with drooping, wavy leaves planted along Indian roads, campuses and compounds. It is native to southern India and Sri Lanka. It is often called ashoka, but true ashoka is Saraca asoca, a different tree with orange-red flowers whose bark is used in Ayurveda. Mast-tree bark has been sold in place of ashoka bark. Older books call it Polyalthia longifolia.

Botanical name: Monoon longifolium (Sonn.) B.Xue & R.M.K.Saunders
Family: Annonaceae
Tamil: Nettilingam
Hindi: Ashok
Parts used: Whole tree as an avenue
Habit: Tall, columnar avenue tree, the false ashoka
Last updated: 2026-10-27

How to recognise Nettilingam

The common planted form grows into a slim column or cone, up to fifteen metres or more, with short drooping branches.

The leaves are long, narrow, glossy and pointed, with distinctly wavy edges, and hang down.

Star-shaped, pale green flowers with narrow petals appear in clusters in spring and are easy to miss.

The fruits are small oval berries in clusters, green turning purple-black.

True ashoka has compound leaves and dense clusters of orange to red flowers.

Traditional use of Nettilingam

Garden

It is planted in rows as a windbreak, noise screen and avenue tree because it grows tall without spreading.

Indian planting practice

Festival

Its leaves are strung into festive toranam garlands over doorways in South India.

South Indian festival practice

Modern notes on Nettilingam

Pharmacognosy studies show that ashoka bark sold in Indian markets is often replaced by mast-tree bark.

Microscopy and chemical markers can tell the two barks apart.

The tree tolerates pollution and poor soil, which suits roadside planting.

Nettilingam safety

If you buy ashoka bark, buy from a supplier who tests identity, since mast-tree bark is a common substitute. The tree itself is harmless in a garden.

Ecology and sourcing

Its leaves are the main food of tailed jay butterfly caterpillars, which are common wherever it is planted.

Fruit bats and birds eat the ripe berries.

Wild trees have a spreading crown; the narrow pendulous form is a planted selection.

Related plants

Also in Annonaceae

Questions about Nettilingam

Is Nettilingam ashoka?

No. True ashoka is Saraca asoca.

Why is Nettilingam called mast tree?

Its tall, straight trunk was once used for ship masts.

Why are the leaves of Nettilingam used in toranam?

They are long, glossy and stay fresh for a day or two.

Which butterfly uses Nettilingam?

The tailed jay lays its eggs on it.

What is the Nettilingam’s older name?

Polyalthia longifolia.

Sources

Educational page about a plant. It is not medical advice, not a diagnosis, and not an offer to sell. Traditional use is historical. If you need care, ask a licensed clinician. Questions: hello@meevamed.com.