The Katakam tree (Strychnos potatorum) is most commonly known in English as the Clearing Nut Tree. It is a medium sized tree native to India. It is a very drought-tolerant tree reaching a height of around 12-18 metres.
The most important property of the tree is that its seeds can purify muddy water almost instantly. The process has been described at the end of the blog.
The leaves are beautifully shaped, bright green, glossy, slightly leathery to touch. The flowers are white in colour and appear as clusters during the blooming season (September to October) with a wonderful aroma.
The bark of the tree is usually dark and cracked
The fruits are round around 0.5-0.7 inch in diameter.
Propagation
It is propagated with the seed. Seeds must be washed thoroughly so that the black coating and fungus on it is removed. Deep growbags are used since the taproot grows very quickly and deeply even before it shows up as a sprout. Germination time is 30-40 days
Cultural significance
Katakam is known as Nirmali in Hindi and Thethankottai in Tamil. Villagers used to take the seed and use it for cleaning the water.
It is used in Ayurveda extensively for several diseases.
Cleaning procedure
1. The seeds are rubbed on a rough surface
2. The stone-ground paste is white and is poured directly into the muddy water in the pot.
3. Stir the water gently in order to ensure that the seed paste disperses evenly.
4. Allow it to settle – normally a couple of hours is sufficient. Do not disturb the vessel.
5. Once the water at the top is completely clear, decan the water into a clean container. While pouring, take care not to disturb the sludge at the bottom.
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