Tectona

Description

Tectona is a genus of trees in the family Lamiaceae, commonly known as the teak family. It comprises three species of trees that are native to Southeast Asia and South Asia. The most popular species is Tectona grandis, known for its strong and durable wood, which is used in furniture making, boat building, and construction. The other two species, Tectona hamiltoniana and Tectona philippinensis, are less common.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Tectona trees can grow up to 40 meters tall and have a diameter of up to 1.5 meters. They have large, deciduous leaves that are arranged alternately on the stem. The leaves are ovate to elliptic in shape and can grow up to 50 cm long and 30 cm wide. The tree produces small, fragrant, white or pink flowers that grow in clusters. The fruit is a nut that is enclosed in a woody shell.

Care Guide

Tectona trees require moderate watering and good drainage. They prefer well-drained, fertile soil, and can tolerate a range of soil pH levels. They need full sun exposure to grow properly, and can withstand temperatures down to -10°C. Tectona trees can be fertilized with a balanced fertilizer every six months to maintain their growth and health. They are hardy to USDA zones 10-12, but can be grown in containers indoors in colder climates.

Common Pests & Diseases

Tectona trees are susceptible to a few pests and diseases, including termites, powderpost beetles, and fungal infections such as root rot and leaf spot. Proper care and maintenance can help prevent these issues, but if they do occur, they can be treated with insecticides and fungicides.

Habitat

Tectona trees are native to Southeast Asia and South Asia, including India, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Myanmar. They can be found in tropical and subtropical regions, and are commonly grown as ornamental trees and for their valuable wood. Tectona trees are also cultivated in other parts of the world, including Central and South America, Africa, and the Caribbean.

Question and Answer

Q: What is the most popular species of Tectona?
A: The most popular species of Tectona is Tectona grandis, known for its strong and durable wood.

Q: What are the common pests and diseases that affect Tectona trees?
A: Tectona trees are susceptible to termites, powderpost beetles, root rot, and leaf spot.

Q: Where are Tectona trees native to?
A: Tectona trees are native to Southeast Asia and South Asia, including India, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Myanmar.

Q: What is the hardiness zone of Tectona trees?
A: Tectona trees are hardy to USDA zones 10-12.

Related Plants

• Agastache
• Coleus
• Lavandula
• Mentha
• Nepeta

References

• “Tectona grandis.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 10 May 2021. <https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287914&isprofile=0&cv=5>.
• “Teak.” Encyclopædia Britannica. Accessed 10 May 2021. <https://www.britannica.com/plant/teak>.
• “Tectona grandis.” Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. Accessed 10 May 2021. <https://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:504290-1>.