Keywords: Native trees near Mumbai, urban greenery, metropolitan foliage

Mumbai's native trees and urban greenery are vital to the city's environment, offering shade, purifying the air, and supporting biodiversity. Some prominent native species that thrive in Mumbai's urban setting include:

Banyan (Ficus benghalensis): The national tree of India, it provides ample shade, supports a wide range of wildlife, and is resilient in urban spaces.

Peepal (Ficus religiosa): Another Ficus species, known for its religious significance and ability to improve air quality by releasing oxygen even at night.

Mango (Mangifera indica): Besides its fruits, the mango tree is admired for its dense canopy and shade, making it ideal for parks and public spaces.

Neem (Azadirachta indica): Known for its medicinal properties, it also acts as a natural air purifier and is drought-tolerant.

Jamun (Syzygium cumini): This tree provides shade, fruits, and serves as a habitat for birds and insects.

Indian Almond (Terminalia catappa): Popular for its aesthetic appeal and broad canopy, often planted along streets.

Palash (Butea monosperma): Known as the "Flame of the Forest" due to its striking orange-red flowers, this tree supports pollinators like bees and birds.

Enhancing Mumbai's metropolitan foliage can involve more than just planting trees—strategically incorporating green spaces, parks, vertical gardens, and tree-lined streets are crucial. Urban forestry initiatives like the "Miyawaki method" of dense urban forests have gained popularity in Mumbai as well. These efforts can provide much-needed relief from heat and pollution while boosting biodiversity.