Our ancient scriptures mention the Kalpavriksha and the Chaityavriksha as a deity, which indicates that worshipping trees is indeed an ancient Indian practice. The Ancient Aryans worshiped nature. Plants, trees and the other elements were always revered and several rituals were connected to them. Ashoka is one of the most legendary and sacred trees of India, and one of the most fascinating flowers in the Indian range of flower essences.
The flowering season is around April and May. It is found in central and eastern Himalayas as well as on the west coast of Bombay. Though banana is not a tree but it is considered a tree because of its structure and size. It is a very sacred tree and all parts of the tree are used for some purpose or the other. For example, the trunk of banana is used to erect welcoming gates. The leaves are used to make the ceremonial pavilion.
In some pooja, the leaves are used to serve "prashad". It is believed that offering of the leaves of banana pleases Lord Ganesha. Banana as a fruit is offered to Lord Vishnu and Laksmi.
The neem tree besides having various medicinal benefits is a highly revered tree among the Hindus because it is a manifestation of "Goddess Durga". That is why the tree is sometimes referred to as Neemari Devi.
