Schleichera oleosa locally known as Kusum, lac tree, gum lac tree, etc. A native hardy, ornamental and medicinal tree that is drought and frost resistant, found in North India and tropical countries, is popular for its bright red leaves around March. Unique feature of this tree is it is host plant to a native lac insect. A lac insect bites into the bark to produce lac which is used commercially. Oil is extracted from the seeds which is used in hair care and as pain relief. The leaves, fruit, seeds, bark r used medically to treat rheumatism, ulcers, hair growth, etc. The leaves and fruits are used in culinary preparations.