Millettia
pinnata is a medium-sized, fast-growing, deciduous shrub or tree, in Fabaceae
or Leguminosae-Papilionoideae family, with a broad distribution from India,
through central and south-eastern Asia, Indonesia and into northern Australia.
It grows to 15–25 m height, prefers humid tropical and subtropical climates and
can tolerate a wide range of soils, including saline soils, but its highest
growth rates are observed on well drained soils with assured moisture. Can
tolerate a range of different conditions with mean annual rainfall between 500–2500
mm and temperature below 0°C to 50°C. The small clusters of coloured flowers
blossom on the branches throughout the year, maturing into brown seed pods.
The Millettia seeds contains 30-40% oil, and is said to be the new
source of ‘biofuel". The various parts of the tree like root, bark,
leaves, sap, and flower have been used in indigenous medicine, notably for the
treatment of rheumatism, and it is also planted for its shade and is grown as
an ornamental tree due to the large canopy and showy fragrant flowers. The seed
cake, remaining when oil is extracted from the seeds, is used as organic
fertiliser or as animal stock feed.
