ànil

Ànil is a term that can refer to several different plants, most notably species within the genus Indigofera, which are the source of the dye indigo. These plants are herbaceous or shrubby and are found in tropical and subtropical regions. The leaves of certain Indigofera species are processed to extract a blue dye known as indigo, which has been used for dyeing textiles for centuries. The cultivation and processing of ànil for indigo production were historically significant industries in various parts of the world, particularly in regions like India and parts of the Americas.

Another plant sometimes referred to as ànil is a species of the family Bignoniaceae, specifically Handroanthus. These are typically trees known for their beautiful, often trumpet-shaped flowers, which can be various colors including yellow, pink, and purple. In some regions, the wood from these trees is also valued for its durability and is used in construction and furniture making. The distinction between these different plants called ànil is usually made clear by context or by specifying the botanical family or genus. The use of the term ànil without further clarification can sometimes lead to ambiguity, but it is most commonly associated with the indigo-producing plants.