Paraserianthes falcataria subsp. falcataria

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Paraserianthes falcataria subsp. falcataria

Description

Tree to 40(-52) m high, d.b.h. 20-100 cm; Branchlets angular by decurrent ridges from the leaf-scars. Leaves: Stipules caducous, linear-filiform, c. 3-5 by 0.5- 1 mm. Inflorescences composed of pedunculate spikes, aggregated into axillary panicles at the distal leaf- axils, to 30 by 25 cm, ultimate spikes to 3.5 cm (incl. peduncle), with flowers approximately in the distal half. Flowers sessile, pentamerous, subtended by early caducous, concave bracts. Stamens white, c. 10-15 mm, tube 3.5 mm, equal to or longer than corolla-tube. Ovary glabrous, 1.5-2 mm, shortly stipitate, often with a ring-shaped nectary at the base. Seeds olive-green, oblong, flat, 6-7.5 by 3-4 mm;

Distribution

Asia-Tropical: Maluku (Maluku present); New Guinea present
Malesia: Moluccas, New Guinea. Widely cultivated.

Uses

This subspecies is often used in reforestation as it grows extremely quick. It is reputed to be one of the fastest growing trees in the world [cf. ] after 10 year it may reach a height of c. 40 m. Used as a shade- tree in cocoa and coffee plantations, but as the trees in everwet areas may rot away after 8-10 years (pers. obs.), it cannot be recommended, neither for the crops mentioned nor for minor agricultural ones, as the roots are superficial. The wood is soft, used as a substitute for pine. The bark can be stripped off and used for packing purposes; it is also used in canoe-building. In Java cultivated up to 1600 m. The species needs more than 2,000 mm rain per year, with at least 15 rainy days during the driest four months.