Contents
Description
Intsia bijuga, popularly known as Moluccan ironwood, is a tropical tree that belongs to the family Fabaceae. It is native to Southeast Asia, where it grows in coastal areas and lowland forests. The tree can grow up to a height of 50 meters and has a trunk diameter of up to 2 meters. Its wood is highly valued for its strength, durability, and resistance to decay, hence its name. The tree produces beautiful, fragrant flowers that range in color from pink to white, and its fruit is a long, flat pod that contains up to 8 seeds.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Intsia |
Appearance
The Intsia bijuga tree has a straight, tall trunk that is covered in smooth, grayish-brown bark. Its leaves are large and pinnate, with up to 14 pairs of leaflets. The tree produces beautiful, fragrant flowers that range in color from pink to white, and its fruit is a long, flat pod that contains up to 8 seeds. The wood of the tree is dark brown to reddish-brown in color, with a fine grain and a glossy finish.
Care Guide
Water: Intsia bijuga requires regular watering, especially during the growing season. Make sure the soil is moist but not waterlogged.
Fertilization: Fertilize the tree with a balanced fertilizer every 3 months during the growing season.
Soil: The tree prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
Sunlight: Intsia bijuga requires full sun to grow properly.
Hardiness Zones: The tree is hardy in USDA zones 10-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Intsia bijuga is susceptible to a variety of pests and diseases, including root rot, leaf spot, and spider mites. Regular inspection and treatment with a suitable pesticide or fungicide can help prevent the spread of these problems.
Habitat
Intsia bijuga is native to Southeast Asia, where it grows in coastal areas and lowland forests. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun, and can tolerate salt spray and strong winds. The tree is an important source of timber and is often used for construction, furniture, and boat building.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Intsia bijuga be grown indoors?
A: No, Intsia bijuga requires full sun and is too large to be grown indoors.
Q: How long does it take for the tree to reach maturity?
A: Intsia bijuga can take up to 20 years to reach maturity.
Q: Is Intsia bijuga a good tree for landscaping?
A: Yes, Intsia bijuga is a beautiful tree that can be used for landscaping in tropical regions.
Q: Is the wood of Intsia bijuga durable?
A: Yes, the wood of Intsia bijuga is highly valued for its strength, durability, and resistance to decay.
Related Plants
- Intsia palembanica
- Intsia bijuga var. borneensis
- Intsia brassii
References
- “Intsia bijuga.” Plants of the World Online. Kew Science. Accessed 15 May 2021. www.plantsoftheworldonline.org/.
- “Intsia bijuga.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 15 May 2021. www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/.
