Common names: Gmelina, Gamhar, White teak, Malay beechwood

Key Characteristics:

Fast-growing tree:

         Can reach heights of 30 meters or more.

Deciduous:

         Sheds leaves during the dry season.

Broad leaves:

         Large, heart-shaped leaves.

Yellow flowers:

         Produces attractive, yellow flowers.

Fruit:

         A small, fleshy fruit.

Distribution:

         Native to Southeast Asia, including India, Myanmar, Thailand, and Vietnam. It has been introduced to many tropical and subtropical regions for its rapid growth and valuable timber.

Uses:

Timber:

         The wood is lightweight, easy to work with, and durable, making it suitable for various applications such as furniture, construction, and plywood.

Pulpwood:

         The wood is used for producing high-quality paper pulp.

Fuelwood:

         The wood is used as fuel wood in many regions.

Medicinal:

         Different parts of the tree have been used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments.