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Description
Paraserianthes Falcataria, also known as the Moluccan albizia, is a fast-growing tree that can reach up to 30 meters in height. It is native to Southeast Asia and the Pacific Islands, but it has been widely introduced in other tropical regions for reforestation and agroforestry purposes. The tree has a straight trunk, grayish-brown bark, and pinnate leaves that can grow up to 40 centimeters long. Its flowers are small and white, and its fruits are flat, brown pods that contain numerous seeds.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Leguminosae |
| Genus | Paraserianthes |
| Species | Falcataria |
Appearance
Paraserianthes Falcataria is a deciduous tree that sheds its leaves during the dry season. Its trunk can grow up to 80 centimeters in diameter, and its crown can spread up to 25 meters wide. The tree has a deep taproot that can reach up to 10 meters in depth, which makes it drought-resistant. Its leaves are pinnate, with 4-10 pairs of leaflets that are lance-shaped and up to 10 centimeters long. Its flowers are small and white, and they grow in clusters of 20-30. Its fruits are flat, brown pods that are 10-20 centimeters long and contain up to 15 seeds.
Care Guide
Paraserianthes Falcataria is a relatively easy tree to care for. It prefers well-drained soils that are rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a wide range of soil pH, from 4.5 to 8.5. The tree requires regular watering during the first two years of growth, but it can survive long periods of drought once established. Fertilization is recommended during the first year of growth, using a balanced fertilizer that contains nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. The tree requires full sun exposure to grow properly. It can tolerate temperatures as low as -2°C, but it grows best in hardiness zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Paraserianthes Falcataria is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be attacked by the albizia shoot borer, a moth that lays its eggs on the tree’s branches and trunks. The larvae of the moth bore into the tree, causing damage and reducing its growth. The tree can also be affected by fungal diseases such as root rot and leaf spot, which can be prevented by maintaining good soil drainage and avoiding overhead watering.
Habitat
Paraserianthes Falcataria is native to Southeast Asia and the Pacific Islands, where it grows in tropical rainforests and on volcanic soils. It has been widely introduced in other tropical regions for reforestation and agroforestry purposes, especially in areas where the soil has been degraded by human activities. The tree is used for timber, pulpwood, fuelwood, and as a shade tree for crops such as coffee and cocoa.
Question and Answer
Q: What is Paraserianthes Falcataria used for?
A: Paraserianthes Falcataria is used for timber, pulpwood, fuelwood, and as a shade tree for crops such as coffee and cocoa.
Q: Where is Paraserianthes Falcataria native to?
A: Paraserianthes Falcataria is native to Southeast Asia and the Pacific Islands.
Q: Can Paraserianthes Falcataria tolerate drought?
A: Yes, Paraserianthes Falcataria can tolerate long periods of drought once established.
Q: What pests and diseases can affect Paraserianthes Falcataria?
A: Paraserianthes Falcataria can be affected by the albizia shoot borer and fungal diseases such as root rot and leaf spot.
Related Plants
- Paraserianthes Lophantha
- Paraserianthes Sieberi
- Paraserianthes Falcataria X Paraserianthes Lophantha
- Albizia Chinensis
References
- FAO. (2017). Ecological and Silvicultural Characteristics of Paraserianthes Falcataria (Moluccan Albizia) in Indonesia. Retrieved from http://www.fao.org/3/i8289en/I8289EN.pdf
- USDA. (2021). Paraserianthes Falcataria. Retrieved from https://plants.usda.gov/home/plantProfile?symbol=PAFA5
- Rahayu, S., et al. (2019). The Role of Paraserianthes Falcataria in Agroforestry Systems: A Review. Journal of Tropical Forest Science, 31(1), 67-77.
