Vol. 9, Special Issue 8, Part O (2025)

Butea monosperma (Lam.) Taub. a multipurpose leguminous tree native to India, exhibits considerable ecological, economic, and medicinal importance. This study aimed to assess the phenotypic variability of morphological and reproductive traits in B. monosperma across three districts of Madhya Pradesh; Chhindwara, Mandla, and Balaghat to identify superior trees for conservation and breeding. A total of 30 phenotypically superior trees (10 from each district) were evaluated for five traits: tree height, girth at breast height (GBH), crown spread, flowering intensity, and fruit yield. Descriptive statistical analysis revealed significant variability among regions. Mandla trees exhibited superior growth performance with the highest mean values for tree height (14.1 m), GBH (114.5 cm), and fruit yield (37.3 kg/tree), along with lower coefficients of variation, indicating population uniformity. In contrast, trees from Balaghat showed lower mean values and higher variability, particularly in flowering intensity and fruit yield. The observed trait variation suggests strong genetic diversity and regional adaptation, supporting the potential for region-specific conservation strategies. The results provide a scientific basis for selecting elite trees and establishing breeding programs aimed at genetic improvement and sustainable utilization of B. monosperma.