The peepal tree, also known as Ficus religiosa, is not specifically classified as male or female. It is a monoecious tree, which means it has separate male and female flowers on the same plant. This characteristic is common in many fig species, including the peepal tree.
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The male flowers of the peepal tree produce pollen, while the female flowers contain ovaries that can develop into fruits. The male flowers are tiny and grow in clusters on a spherical receptacle called a syconium, which is the characteristic inflorescence structure of figs. The female flowers are also found inside the syconium but are located at its base, closer to the center.
Unlike some other fig species, peepal trees do not require pollinators for fertilization to occur. The wasp species that typically pollinate fig trees are not necessary for peepal trees to reproduce successfully. The enclosed structure of the syconium allows for self-pollination within the tree.
However, it is worth noting that the term “male” and “female” counterparts is sometimes used informally to describe the Banyan tree and the Peepal tree. Both Banyan (Ficus benghalensis) and Peepal trees belong to the same family (Moraceae) and genus (Ficus). While they have some visual similarities and both belong to the fig family, they are distinct species with their own unique characteristics.
In conclusion, the peepal tree itself is not specifically categorized as male or female. It is a monoecious tree with separate male and female flowers, allowing for self-pollination and fruit production. The mention of male and female counterparts is often used in comparison with the Banyan tree, but it is not strictly applicable to the peepal tree on its own.