Pterocarpus indicus facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Pterocarpus indicus |
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Dalbergieae
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Pterocarpus
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P. indicus
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| Pterocarpus indicus Willd.
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Pterocarpus indicus is a special tree found in Southeast Asia. It is known by many names, like Narra in the Philippines and Angsana in Malaysia and Singapore. It is also called Amboyna wood or Philippine mahogany. This tree is famous for its beautiful wood and its ability to grow quickly.
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What is Pterocarpus indicus?
Pterocarpus indicus is a large, fast-growing tree. It can reach heights of 30 to 40 meters (about 100 to 130 feet). Its trunk can grow very wide. The tree has a wide, spreading top, which makes it great for shade.
Leaves and Flowers
The leaves of the Narra tree are shiny and green. They are made up of several smaller leaflets. The tree produces many bright yellow, fragrant flowers. These flowers grow in clusters. They usually bloom in spring or early summer. Sometimes, they bloom after a heavy rain.
Fruit and Seeds
After the flowers, the tree grows flat, round pods. These pods look a bit like discs. Each pod contains one or two seeds. The pods are winged, which helps them spin and fly in the wind. This helps the seeds spread far away from the parent tree.
Where Does it Grow?
The Narra tree is native to many countries in Southeast Asia. You can find it in places like the Philippines, Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, and Papua New Guinea. It likes warm, tropical climates. It often grows in coastal areas and lowland forests.
Growing Conditions
This tree prefers well-drained soil. It can grow in different types of soil. It needs a lot of sunlight to grow well. The Narra tree is known for its fast growth. It can grow several feet taller each year. This makes it a popular tree for planting.
Why is Narra Important?
The Narra tree is very important in many ways. It is valued for its wood, its beauty, and its role in nature.
National Tree
The Narra tree is the national tree of the Philippines. It is a symbol of the country's strength and beauty. It is also the provincial tree of Chonburi Province and Phuket Province in Thailand. In Indonesia, it is known as Angsana.
Valuable Wood
The wood from the Narra tree is very strong and beautiful. It is often called "Philippine mahogany." The wood has a lovely reddish-brown color. It is used to make furniture, flooring, and musical instruments. It is also popular for carvings and decorative items. The wood is known for being resistant to termites. This makes it very durable.
Shade and Beauty
Because of its wide canopy, the Narra tree is often planted in cities. It provides excellent shade in parks and along streets. Its bright yellow flowers add a splash of color. They make the tree a beautiful sight when it blooms.
Life Cycle and Reproduction
The Narra tree reproduces through its seeds. The flowers are pollinated, leading to the formation of seed pods.
Seed Dispersal
The winged pods help the seeds travel. When the pods dry, they fall from the tree. The wind catches their wings, carrying them away. This method helps the tree spread its population. New Narra trees can then grow in different areas.
Conservation Status
Unfortunately, Pterocarpus indicus is listed as "Vulnerable" by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). This means its population is decreasing. People are working to protect these trees. They are planting new trees and managing forests carefully. This helps ensure that future generations can also enjoy the beauty and benefits of the Narra tree.
Images for kids
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A mature specimen in Hong Kong
See also
In Spanish: Amboyna para niños
