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Description
Gmelina Arborea, also known as Gmelina, is a deciduous tree belonging to the family Lamiaceae. It is native to Southeast Asia and has a variety of uses, from timber to medicine. The tree can grow up to 30 meters tall and has a trunk that can reach a diameter of up to 2 meters.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Lamiaceae |
| Genus | Gmelina |
Appearance
The leaves of Gmelina Arborea are large, oval-shaped, and have a pointed tip. They are arranged alternately on the branches and have a bright green color. The tree produces small, yellow, and tubular flowers that grow in clusters. The fruit of the tree is a small capsule that contains many seeds.
Care Guide
Gmelina Arborea requires regular watering, especially during the first few years of growth. The tree prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Fertilization is recommended during the growing season to encourage healthy growth. The tree prefers full sunlight and can tolerate a range of hardiness zones, from 10 to 12.
Common Pests & Diseases
Gmelina Arborea is susceptible to a variety of pests and diseases, including termites, mealybugs, and leaf spot. Regular monitoring and treatment with insecticides and fungicides can prevent infestations and disease outbreaks.
Habitat
Gmelina Arborea is native to Southeast Asia and is commonly found in India, Myanmar, Thailand, and the Philippines. The tree prefers warm and humid climates and can grow in a variety of soil types, from sandy to clayey soils.
Question and Answer
Q: What are the medicinal uses of Gmelina Arborea?
A: Gmelina Arborea is used in Ayurvedic medicine to treat a variety of ailments, including fever, inflammation, and respiratory infections.
Q: Is Gmelina Arborea a good timber species?
A: Yes, Gmelina Arborea is a popular timber species due to its fast growth and durability.
Q: What is the ecological significance of Gmelina Arborea?
A: Gmelina Arborea is an important tree species in agroforestry systems, as it can improve soil fertility and provide shade for crops.
Q: Can Gmelina Arborea be propagated by cuttings?
A: Yes, Gmelina Arborea can be propagated by stem cuttings or seedlings.
Related Plants
- Gmelina elliptica
- Gmelina philippensis
- Gmelina leichhardtii
References
- “Gmelina Arborea.” Useful Tropical Plants. https://tropical.theferns.info/viewtropical.php?id=Gmelina+arborea
- “Gmelina Arborea Roxb.” Agroforestry Tree Database. https://www.worldagroforestry.org/usefultrees/pdflib/Gmelina_arborea.PDF
- “Gmelina Arborea (Roxb.) Fruit and Its Medicinal Uses: A Review.” International Journal of Pharmacognosy and Phytochemical Research. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/344355364_Gmelina_arborea_Roxb_Fruit_and_Its_Medicinal_Uses_A_Review
