Blackboard tree

Alstonia scholaris, commonly called blackboard tree, scholar tree,is an evergreen tree in the family Apocynaceae.It is originates from tropical and subtropical Asia, Australasia, and the Indian subcontinent.Blackboard tree is an evergreen tropical tree known for its glossy leaves, fragrant white flowers, and milky latex. It is commonly planted as a shade and avenue tree in warm climates and is valued for its ornamental form and tolerance of urban conditions. Its other common name, the "Blackboard Tree," comes from the historical use of its soft wood to make slates and writing tables for students. In India, its leaves are also culturally revered; Rabindranath Tagore famously started a tradition at Visva-Bharati University of presenting Saptaparni leaves to scholars during convocation ceremonies.