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Description
Eusideroxylon Zwageri, commonly known as Borneo ironwood or Belian, is a slow-growing tree species native to Southeast Asia. It belongs to the family Lauraceae and is highly valued for its dense, durable, and water-resistant timber. It can grow up to 40 meters in height and 1 meter in diameter. The tree has a straight trunk with a dense canopy of glossy, dark green leaves.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Laurales |
| Family | Lauraceae |
| Genus | Eusideroxylon |
| Species | Zwageri |
Appearance
Eusideroxylon Zwageri has a distinctive reddish-brown heartwood that is highly resistant to decay and insect damage. The bark is thin and smooth, with a greyish-brown color. The leaves are alternate, simple, and oblong in shape, with a length of 7-20 cm and a width of 2-8 cm. The tree produces small, white flowers that are arranged in clusters, followed by ovoid fruits that turn black when ripened. The wood of Eusideroxylon Zwageri is extremely dense, heavy, and hard, and is used for high-end furniture, flooring, and construction.
Care Guide
Eusideroxylon Zwageri is a low-maintenance tree that can thrive in a wide range of environmental conditions. Here are some tips on how to care for this species:- Water: Eusideroxylon Zwageri prefers moist but well-drained soil. Water the tree deeply once a week during the growing season, and reduce watering during the winter months.- Fertilization: Eusideroxylon Zwageri does not require regular fertilization. However, you can apply a slow-release fertilizer in the spring to promote growth.- Soil: Eusideroxylon Zwageri can grow in a variety of soil types, but prefers loamy, well-drained soil. The pH should be between 5.5 and 6.5.- Sunlight: Eusideroxylon Zwageri can tolerate both full sun and partial shade. However, it grows best in a location that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.- Hardiness Zones: Eusideroxylon Zwageri is hardy in USDA zones 10 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Eusideroxylon Zwageri is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is poorly drained. In addition, the tree can be attacked by termites and borers if it is not treated with a protective coating.
Habitat
Eusideroxylon Zwageri is native to the lowland rainforests of Southeast Asia, including Malaysia, Indonesia, and the Philippines. It grows in a range of soil types, from sandy to clayey, and can tolerate periodic flooding. The tree is often found in mixed dipterocarp forests and is an important timber species in the region.
Question and Answer
Q: What is the density of Eusideroxylon Zwageri wood?
A: The density of Eusideroxylon Zwageri wood ranges from 1,000 to 1,300 kg/m3, making it one of the densest woods in the world.
Q: How long does it take for Eusideroxylon Zwageri to reach maturity?
A: Eusideroxylon Zwageri is a slow-growing tree that can take up to 80 years to reach maturity.
Q: What is the commercial value of Eusideroxylon Zwageri wood?
A: Eusideroxylon Zwageri wood is highly valued for its durability, water resistance, and aesthetic appeal. It is used for high-end furniture, flooring, and construction, and can fetch a high price in the market.
Q: Is Eusideroxylon Zwageri a threatened species?
A: Yes, Eusideroxylon Zwageri is listed as a vulnerable species by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) due to habitat loss and overexploitation.
Related Plants
– Eusideroxylon excelsum- Eusideroxylon zwageri var. album- Eusideroxylon polystachyum- Eusideroxylon zwageri var. ferrugineum
References
– “Eusideroxylon Zwageri.” IUCN Red List of Threatened Species, https://www.iucnredlist.org/species/33022/9778788.- “Eusideroxylon Zwageri.” Wood Database, https://www.wood-database.com/eusideroxylon-zwageri/.- “Belian.” Rainforest Journal, https://www.rainforestjournal.com/belian/.
