No, the Peepal tree is not the national tree of India. The national tree of India is the Banyan tree, scientifically known as Ficus benghalensis. The Banyan tree holds great cultural, religious, and ecological significance in India, and it is widely revered and protected.
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However, the Peepal tree, also known as the bodhi tree, holds great religious and spiritual significance in Indian culture. It is considered sacred by the followers of Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism. According to Hindu mythology, Lord Krishna himself is believed to reside in the Peepal tree. Similarly, in Buddhism, it is believed to be the tree under which Siddhartha Gautama attained enlightenment and became the Buddha.
The Peepal tree (Ficus religiosa) belongs to the same genus as the Banyan tree but is a different species. Both trees are important and widely found throughout India, and they have distinct characteristics and cultural associations.
In conclusion, while the Peepal tree holds significant cultural and religious importance in India, it is not recognized as the national tree. The Banyan tree, or Ficus benghalensis, has been officially designated as the national tree of India.