Q.32 Which plant is known for its orange-red dye from flowers?
Butea monosperma yields orange-red dye from flowers in plant science MCQs.
Butea monosperma, known as the flame of the forest, is renowned for its vibrant orange-red flowers that provide a natural dye used traditionally in India. This distinguishes it from the other options in competitive exams like GATE Life Sciences.
Option Analysis
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(1) Dalbergia sissoo: Incorrect. This is Indian rosewood (Sheesham), a timber tree valued for its durable wood and medicinal bark, but it does not produce dye from flowers; its heartwood yields a reddish dye occasionally.
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(2) Butea monosperma: Correct. Known as Palash or Tesu, its bright orange-red flowers are soaked to extract a dye for Holi colors, textiles, and body art; rich in butrin, it gives a fast orange-red hue on mordanted fabrics.
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(3) Lawsonia inermis: Incorrect. Henna plant yields orange-red dye from leaves (lawsone compound) for hair and skin, not flowers, which are small and white.
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(4) Clitoria ternatea: Incorrect. Butterfly pea produces vivid blue dye from flowers for food coloring and textiles, not orange-red.
The query “which plant is known for its orange-red dye from flowers” targets botany students preparing for exams like GATE Life Sciences. Butea monosperma stands out as the source, with its fiery blooms yielding a vibrant natural dye central to Indian traditions.
Plant Identification
Butea monosperma (Fabaceae family) is a deciduous tree native to India, growing 15m tall with flame-like orange-red flower clusters in spring. Flowers are extracted by boiling or soaking for dye, used in Holi rangoli, fabric coloring, and rituals.
Comparison Table
| Plant | Dye Source | Color | Primary Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dalbergia sissoo | Wood | Reddish | Timber |
| Butea monosperma | Flowers | Orange-red | Holi dye, textiles |
| Lawsonia inermis | Leaves | Orange-red | Henna tattoos |
| Clitoria ternatea | Flowers | Blue | Food colorant |
Cultural and Practical Value
Palash dye from Butea monosperma is eco-friendly, antimicrobial, and mordant-fixed with alum for durability. Unlike leaf dyes (henna) or wood extracts, its floral origin makes it unique for seasonal festivals.
