How to Grow Shami Plant - Placement & Benefits

Also known as Khejri, the Shami Plant is a beautiful indoor plant with incredible Vastu and health benefits. Find out how to grow and care for it, common problems, and other facts of this plant.

Updated: Mar 17, 2025, 16:00 IST By: Kanika Arora

Table of Contents

Quick Key Facts on Shami Plant

How to Identify Shami Plant

How to Grow Shami Plant

Growing Shami Plant Through Cuttings
Growing Shami Plant Through Seeds

How to Take Care of Shami Plant

Shami Plant Fertilising Tips

Common Problems of Shami Plant

Common Pests That Affect Shami Plant

What Vastu Says About the Shami Plant

Can Tulsi Plant and Shami Plant be Planted Together?

Where to Plant or Place the Shami Plant

What is Shami Tree called in Hindi, English and other Languages

Shami Plant Benefits You Should Know

Summing up Shami Plant

The Shami Plant is a beneficial indoor plant. Every homeowner desires his or her home to be the most beautiful place on the planet. Green plants and trees add positivity and beauty to our homes. They not only clean the air but also provide wondrous benefits. Certain plants can attract good fortune and prosperity to our homes. One such plant is the Shami plant.

Every tree and plant has a distinct personality. Its shape, colour, fragrance, fruits, and flowers are all associated with different planets due to their various effects. However, some plants are also sacred. Tulsi, for example, is worshipped in almost every Hindu household. It is considered to have the power to eradicate all negative energy from the house, like most feng shui plants. Similarly, worshipping the Shami plant is considered to be very auspicious.

Quick Key Facts on Shami Plant

The scientific name of Shami Plant	Prosopis Cineraria
Other names of Shami Plant	Chhikur, Gonharea, Samee, Saikanta
Sunlight requirement	Requires regular sun exposure
Soil type required	Requires sandy and loamy soil
Soil PH level	Mildly acidic
Estimated mature size of Shami Plant	Grows up to 15 - 20 ft tall and 10 - 15 ft. wide.

How to Identify Shami Plant

Shami, also known as White Kutch, is a medicinal plant native to India. Acacia polyacantha Willd is the botanical name for this plant. The Shami plant in Hindi is popularly known as chikkur.

Here's how to identify Shami plant: It is a medium-sized tree with white-pubescent branches and whitish bark that exfoliates in papery flakes and is marked by darker horizontal patches at intervals. Flowers are slow growing, pale yellow to nearly white, and fruits are flat with a triangular beak at the apex, tapering at the base into a stalk.

Shami plant flower A flowering Shami plant

How to Grow Shami Plant

You can grow a Shami plant in two ways, through cuttings and seeds. Growing the plant from cuttings and seeds is the simplest reproduction method. You must follow a few simple, proper steps, and you are good to go.

Growing Shami Plant Through Cuttings

Step 1: Locate a healthy plant from which you will take cuttings for future growth. Cut the plant's stems at a 45° angle to harvest these cuttings. There is a potential that not all of the cuttings will grow, so you should cut at least three to four stems.

Step 2: To prepare these cuttings for planting, remove the leaves from the stem's sides. The leaves will get buried in the soil during germination, and trimming the sides will promote faster development. It is okay if you do not pluck the leaves on the top.

Step 3: Dip the cuttings in a rooting hormone after they are ready. If you prefer not to use synthetic rooting hormone, you may make your own at home by combining three parts aloe vera gel and one part honey. The rooting hormone will accelerate the rooting process.

Step 4: Combine equal quantities of loamy soil, compost, and sand to create a potting mix. Get a pot that drains well to prevent sand from draining out of the drain hole. You can put a dish or some stones at the bottom of the pot. After that, add potting mix to the bottom third of the container.

Step 5: Once the pot is prepared, use your fingers or another long, sharp object to poke a hole through the mixture using the stems. The base end of the stem should be coated with the rooting hormone. You can now place the cuttings in the pot and carefully fill the surrounding soil. Water the plant well.

Growing Shami Plant Through Seeds

Purchase Shami plant seeds from a nearby nursery or garden shop
Before planting, you must soak the seeds for a minimum of 12 to 24 hours
Scrape the outer layer or coat of the seed gently so as not to harm the embryo
Bury the seed in the potting soil and mist it softly (see step 4 above)
Keep the pot in direct and strong light for germination

Growing a Shami plant

How to Take Care of Shami Plant

Sunlight: Shami plants need a lot of indirect light, especially during germination. Place the plant in a shady area with plenty of light.
Temperature: The plant requires a minimum temperature of 9-20°C for germination. However, as the plants age, they become hardier. In hot summers, such as in Indian states like Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Gujrat, these plants cannot tolerate the sun. In such areas, plants should be moved into the shadow.
Pruning: Even though the plant does not require grooming, pruning these plants is a good idea, as it can enhance plant growth. So prune your plants and remove all the dry leaves and flowers as soon as you see any.
Watering: Once mature, the plants do not require much water. It can also withstand dry circumstances. So, once the topsoil has dried, rewater. However, during germination, you must keep the plant moist. It is important to ensure that the water reaches every part of the soil.
Use Seaweed for Greenery: Seaweed should be added to the soil to keep your Shami plant green. This will improve the plant's ability to absorb nutrients.

Shami ka plant Shami plant for your home

Shami Plant Fertilising Tips

Feeding your Shami plant on time is essential for its survival. Find below a few common Shami plant fertilising tips you can use.

Fertilising your Shami plant every two to three weeks can enhance its growth.
Use a slow-release fertiliser to feed your Shami plant.
A homemade fruit peel fertiliser can also be used to fertilise the Shami plant at home.
Ensure that your Shami plant is watered after fertilising. This helps distribute the fertiliser and make it available for all parts of your plant.
Mix the fertiliser into the soil for better results.
Avoid using chemical fertilisers as they may harm your Shami plant.
Organic fertilisers, like cow dung, banana peels, and egg shells, can also be used for fertilisation.
Do not over-fertilise your Shami plant, as it may prevent flowering.
A complete fertiliser that contains Nitrogen, Potassium, and Phosphorus is recommended for fertilisation.

Common Problems of Shami Plant

Shami plants are often troubled by issues that affect their growth. Here are those common problems that affect it.

Underwatering: If you notice the leaves of the Shami plant drooping, it can indicate an underwater Shami plant. These plants do not prefer to be under-watered. Doing so can cause your plant to dry up
Overwatering: Addressing the case of overwatering. It is a common occurrence and often leads to root rot in the Shami plant. The simple way to identify if the Shami plant is overwatered is to take the soil and squeeze it. After squeezing, if the soil stains your hand, it clearly indicates that it is overwatered.
Lack of food: If there is a lack of nutrients, it may turn the leaves of the plant yellow. Lack of nutrients can also cause stunted growth of the plant. In some cases, there is an absence of growth in the plant. Thus, it is important to fertilize the plant. Slow-release fertilizers are best for the Shami plant’s growth.

Common Pests That Affect Shami Plant

A Shami plant is normally resistant to pest attacks. But, if the Shami plant is near a plant that is affected by bugs or pests, then there is a possibility that your Shami plant can get attacked, too. Pests that affect the Shami plant are as follows:

Spider Mites: The easiest way to identify Spider Mites on Shami plant is through the presence of webbing on leaves. These mites affect the plants, especially in dry environments.
Caterpillars: The flower buds of the Shami plant are affected by caterpillars, as they destroy them by eating their leaves and buds.
Aphids: If the leaves of your Shami plant are turning yellow, aphids could be behind them. Aphids suck the sap out of the shoots of the Shami plant and make them weak. Aphids can also be the reason behind the stunted growth of your Shami plant.
Mealybugs: These bugs also cause a similar reaction in the Shami plant. They can stunt the growth of the plant or cause the leaves to turn yellow.

What Vastu Says About the Shami Plant

According to Vastu Shastra, the plants and trees surrounding your house add to the positivity of the house. According to Vastu experts, if Saturn or Shani influences your horoscope, you should plant a Shami tree in your home. Every Saturday, you should light a mustard oil lamp under the tree and worship it; this will get rid of Shani Dosha.

The Vastu experts also suggest an appropriate time and day for planting the Shami plant on the premises. If Shani Sade Sati or Dhaiya is active, a mustard oil light should be lit every Saturday at nightfall in front of the Shami tree. Saturday is thought to be the best day for planting this tree. Because the Shami tree represents Shani Mahadev, the location of the Shami tree in the house is very important.

Since the Shami ka plant is auspicious, worship it daily, light a lamp near it and offer water

Can Tulsi Plant and Shami Plant be Planted Together?

Some experts believe the Tulsi and Shami plants should not be kept together. This is because the Shami plant is dear to lord Shiva, whereas Tulsi is not dear to lord Shiva. Make sure that both plants are kept at a distance.

Where to Plant or Place the Shami Plant

The plant is auspicious and should be placed in a pot or planted near your home’s main door.
When planting the Shami plant near or on the main door, ensure it is on the right side when you exit.
As per Vastu, the Shami Plant should be grown in the North or East direction.
It should ideally be planted in the front garden - as this invites prosperity and safety for the house inmates.
It should be away from any structures so no shadow falls on the plant.
Be sure to plant the plant in a clean and dry place. It should not be placed near garbage or a drain.

What is Shami Tree called in Hindi, English and other Languages

The Shami plant belongs to the Mimosaceae family. Its botanical name is Prosopis Cineraria. It has the following names in different languages:

Hindi: Shami, Chikur, Khejri

English: Prosopis Cineraria

Sanskrit: Shami, Shiva, Mangalya, Sattufla, Tunga, Keshahatri, Lakshmi, Shivafla

Kannada: Perambai, Banni, Takkite

Oriya: Khodiro, Shami, Somi

Konkani: Xembi, Shami

Tamil: Parambai, Kalisam, Jambu

Telugu: Jambi,Jammi chettu

Gujarati: Khamdi, Khijado, Hamra

Punjabi: Jandi, Jand

Malayalam: Vammi, Parampu

Bengali: Shami, Somi

Marathi: Saunder, Shemi, Somi

Arabic: Ghaf

Urdu: Jandi, Kandi

Shami Plant Benefits You Should Know

Shami plant benefits are not unknown to us. Along with its religious importance, it is also well known for its astrological and medicinal benefits.

The same plant is just as beneficial as the Tulsi plant. Shani Dev's adverse effects can be mitigated by consuming its fruits, leaves, roots, stamps, and juice.
Planting a Shami tree at home can bring happiness, peace, and wealth, as well as protect it from the negative energy of others.
The plant is very important in the field of medicine. Ayurveda recommends it to treat numerous diseases such as mental disorders, Schizophrenia, respiratory tract infection, excessive heat, herpes, loose motion, leucorrhoea, and so on.
Various parts of the plant are used for medicinal purposes. The dried, powdered bark is applied externally to promote ulcer healing, and a decoction of the ground bark is used as a gargle to soothe sore throat and toothache. A portion of the tender leaves is used as an antiseptic and a remedy for diarrhoea and dysentery.
The extract of the leaves is used to kill parasitic worms in the intestine. The pods are used to treat urinogenital disorders.
As per Ayurveda, using the plant is beneficial in balancing the Kapha and Pitta dosha of the body. Its bark and fruit are used in treating the doshas.
It is also beneficial in treating itching skin diseases, scorpion bites, bleeding disorders, and burning sensations in the eyes and face.
It is recommended for females who tend to suffer from repeated miscarriages.
The plant's fruit paste is also used to remove facial hair.

Shami plant image Leaves of the Shami plant are used for medicinal purposes

Summing up Shami Plant

The unique significance of the Shami plant is quite intriguing. It has been worshipped since ancient times and is known for bringing positivity and fortune. It also adds to the beauty of the place and is one of the best plants for your home. Ensure you provide the Shami plant with proper care and maintenance.

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Frequently asked questions

Can the Shami plant be placed inside the house?

The shami plant can be placed directly in the garden or at the entrance of the house but shouldn't be placed right inside the house.
How do you take care of the shami plant at home?

The shami plant requires a lot of indirect sunlight, especially when it's growing. Place the plant in a shady area with plenty of sunlight, or under a larger or bushier plant, where it will receive filtered sunlight.
Can a shami plant be grown from scratch?

Of course. Seeds can be bought from any local nursery and by following the instructions regarding how to grow a shami plant, it can easily be planted in the home garden.
What is the correct Vastu direction for the shami plant?

The correct Shami plant vastu direction is the south direction of your home.
Can we keep Tulsi and Shami plants together?

According to some experts, the shami and Tulsi plants should not be planted or kept together. One is dear to Lord Shiva, and the other is not.
Can we put the Shami plant on the shivling?

It is considered auspicious to offer Shami plant leaves on shilvling along with Madar flowers, Bilva leaves, and Dhatura.
What is the other name of Shami Plant in Hindi?

The Shami plant in Hindi is known by different names, it is called Chikur as well Khejri, besides being called Shami.
How to worship Shami plant?

You should light a Diya every Saturday under the Shami plant in your house. Offering the Shami leaf to Lord Shiva on a daily basis is also considered auspicious. Further, offering water to your Shami plant daily before a bath is essential.
Why worship Shami plant?

Worshipping the Shami plant daily helps alleviate all types of pain. It removes all problems and increases wealth too. If there is a health issue or an accident due to Shani effect, wrap Shami plant wood in a black thread and wear it.
What is the name of Shami plant in English?

The English name of the Shami plant is Prosopis Cineraria, which is a biological name.
What are the benefits of Shami plant?

There are many medicinal benefits of the Shami Plant as it helps treat many diseases and disorders. It also has Vastu benefits and is believed to bring happiness and wealth. Further it has religious significance and is said to remove the negative effects of Shani.
How to identify the Shami Plant?

The Shami plant is a medium-sized tree, generally between 10 feet to 16 feet in height. It has white-pubescent branches, and a whitish bark with darker horizontal patches at intervals. Its flowers are pale yellow to nearly white, though their base is lavender to pink in colour. Its seeds are yellow in colour.
What does the Shami Plant flower look like?

The Shami plant flowers are pale yellow to nearly white in colour, though its base is a pretty lavender to pink colour. These flowers usually blossom between March to June.
Can the shami plant be planted in the balcony?

Like every other plant, the shami plant can be planted in the balcony. This plant needs proper sunlight and ventilation.
Are there any medicinal benefits of the shami plant?

Medicinal benefits of the shami plant are beneficial in balancing the Kapha and Pitta dosha of the body.
Which is lord Shiv's favourite leaf ?

Lord Shiv's favourite leaves are bel patra and Shami plant leaf.
Does the Shami plant have fruits?

Yes, the Shami plant grows flowers and fruits.The plant bears fruits from August to February.
When do the Shami plant flowers bloom?

The Shami plant's flowering period is generally from March to June.
Are Shami plants susceptible to any pests or diseases ?

Shami is typically resistant to a wide range of illnesses and pests. To preserve the health of the plant, constant monitoring and appropriate care are necessary as it can be vulnerable to some fungal illnesses and insect infestations.
Can you eat Shami plants?

The seeds, leaves, and flowers of the Shami plant are utilised in a variety of culinary preparations, so the answer is yes. While the leaves and blooms can be used in curries and other recipes, the seeds are roasted and eaten as a snack.
Is Shami a plant that grows quickly ?

Shami is not renowned for growing quickly. It grows slowly, especially in the early stages, as a tree or shrub. It may take a number of years to mature.
What is the shami tree called in Marathi?

In the Marathi language shami tree is called by various names-Saunder, Shemi, and Somi.
How much time will the shami tree take to grow from shami tree seeds ?

If a shami tree is grown from shami tree seeds then it will take around 6-12 months to grow.
What is the shami tree in Bengali name ?

The Shami tree in Bengali name is called Shami, Somi.
What are the environmental benefits of the Shami Plant?

Shami Plant's roots tie up the soil which further helps prevent soil erosion and desertification. Additionally, it acts as a roof for animals and birds.
What challenges can we face with Shami Plant ?

Shami Plant is susceptible to pests and diseases, making it challenging for you to grow the plant.
Can we gift Shami plant ?

Shami Plant makes a great choice for gifting. This plant attracts prosperity and eliminates negative energies from the house.
How to water a Shami plant ?

You must keep the plant moist while it is germinating. However, it doesn't require much water once mature. You need to rewater it when you see the topsoil drying.
Can the Shami Plant survive without sunlight ?

Shami Plant flourishes in full sun and can stand high temperatures. Make sure it receives 6 hours of direct sunlight daily.