Contents
Description
Shorea is a genus of evergreen trees and shrubs belonging to the family Dipterocarpaceae. These trees are native to Southeast Asia and are commonly found in tropical rainforests. The trees are known for their high-quality timber, which is used in construction, furniture-making, and shipbuilding. Shorea trees also have medicinal properties and are used in traditional medicine to treat various illnesses.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malvales |
| Family | Dipterocarpaceae |
| Genus | Shorea |
Appearance
Shorea trees can grow up to 70 meters tall and have a straight trunk with a diameter of up to 2 meters. The bark is smooth and grayish-brown in color. The leaves are large, glossy, and leathery, with a length of up to 30 cm. The flowers are small and white, and the fruit is a woody capsule that contains up to four seeds.
Care Guide
Shorea trees require well-draining soil and prefer full sun to partial shade. They require regular watering, especially during the dry season. Fertilization can be done once or twice a year using a balanced fertilizer. Shorea trees are hardy in USDA zones 10-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Shorea trees are susceptible to various pests and diseases, including termites, scale insects, and fungal infections. Proper care and maintenance can help prevent these problems.
Habitat
Shorea trees are native to Southeast Asia and are commonly found in tropical rainforests. They prefer well-draining soil and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures and humidity levels.
Question and Answer
Q: What is Shorea used for?
A: Shorea trees are used for their high-quality timber, which is used in construction, furniture-making, and shipbuilding. They also have medicinal properties and are used in traditional medicine to treat various illnesses.
Q: What are the common pests and diseases of Shorea trees?
A: Shorea trees are susceptible to various pests and diseases, including termites, scale insects, and fungal infections.
Q: What are the habitat requirements for Shorea trees?
A: Shorea trees prefer well-draining soil and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures and humidity levels. They are commonly found in tropical rainforests.
Q: How tall can Shorea trees grow?
A: Shorea trees can grow up to 70 meters tall.
Related Plants
- Dipterocarpus
- Hopea
- Shorea
- Vatica
References
- Chin, S. C., & Ng, K. K. S. (2005). The genus Shorea in Peninsular Malaysia. Malayan Forest Records No. 47. Forest Research Institute Malaysia.
- Gupta, R. K., & Chaudhary, R. P. (2014). Traditional uses of Shorea robusta Gaertn. f. in India: A review. Journal of Pharmacognosy and Phytochemistry, 3(3), 106-111.
- Kochummen, K. M. (1995). The Dipterocarpaceae of Singapore. Gardens’ Bulletin Singapore, 47(2), 343-375.
