Other common names in various languages include lasura, leswa,laveda, pidar, panugeri, naruvilli, geduri, sepistan, burgund dulu wanan '"Iriki Chettu (Telugu) and ntege.
It is found growing primarily in Asia, as well as, across the globe especially in tropical regions having the right type of geophysical environment.
It is seen coming up naturally and growing abundantly from Myanmar in the east to Lebanon and Syria in the west.
Its bole (main trunk) is generally straight and cylindrical, attaining a height of nearly 3 to 4 metres (9.8 to 13.1 ft).
The branches spread in all directions by virtue of which its crown can be trained into a beautiful inverted dome like an umbrella.
The species is indigenous to China and is widely cultivated in lower plains and tropical regions.
Though this plant flourishes well in deep clay loam and sandy soils, it does still better in areas experiencing nearly 100 to 150 centimetres (39 to 59 in) of annual rainfall.