Teak (Tectona grandis) is a large deciduous tree native to South and Southeast Asia, renowned for its high-quality, durable timber. It can reach heights of up to 40 meters and features large, ovate leaves and small, fragrant white flowers. In agroecology and regenerative agriculture, teak plays a significant role as a canopy layer in food forests, providing shade and habitat for understory plants and wildlife. Its leaf litter contributes to soil fertility, and its deep root system aids in preventing soil erosion. Teak is often integrated into agroforestry systems with crops like coffee and cacao, which benefit from the partial shade and improved microclimate. Historically, teak wood has been used for shipbuilding and furniture due to its resistance to water and pests.
Growing Details
Teak thrives in tropical climates with well-drained, fertile soils. Prior to planting, prepare the soil by incorporating organic matter to improve fertility and drainage. Mulching around young trees helps retain moisture and suppress weeds. Companion planting with nitrogen-fixing species like pigeon pea can enhance soil fertility. Common mistakes include planting in poorly drained soils and neglecting young trees' water needs. Harvesting for timber should occur when trees are mature, typically a
Edible Parts
Tags
Carbon Farming Attracts Wildlife Fire Wood Building Wood Windbreak Erosion Preventing Visual Appeal Colouring
Range (Based on GBIF Data)
The map shows known occurrence points of <strong>Tectona grandis</strong> recorded in scientific biodiversity databases.
Source: <a href="https://www.gbif.org" target="_blank">GBIF.org</a> โ Global Biodiversity Information Facility
Location & Timing
native geo location: Native to South and Southeast Asia, including
applicable geo region: Tropical regions
language used: en
Flowering:
beginning
of Jun for 30 days
Harvest:
beginning
of August for 60 days
Seed Start:
?
Indoor Start:
Transplant:
Uses & Benefits
Edible Rating:
(0/5)
edible uses:
Medicinal Rating:
(2/5)
medicinal uses: Teak has been used in traditional medicine for its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. The leaves and bark are sometimes used in herbal remedies to treat headaches and skin conditions. However, caution is advised as some parts may cause irritation if not prepared correctly.
health concerns: Some parts of the teak plant may cause skin irritation if handled improperly.
other uses: Teak wood is highly valued for its durability and resistance to water, making it ideal for building construction, furniture, and boat building. The leaves can be used as a natural dye.
Scientific Literature
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Botanical data
specie: Tectona grandis
common names: Teak; Sagwan; Jati
family: Lamiaceae
sub family:
tribe:
sub tribe:
genus: Tectona
Growing Conditions
area needed: 0.0 m
spacing: 3.0 m
growing difficulty: High
Deciduous / Evergreen: Evergreen
Seed Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 25ยฐC / 20ยฐC / 30ยฐC
Plant Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 25ยฐC / 15ยฐC / 35ยฐC
water demands: High
humidity:
light demands: High
root type: Deep
frost tender: High
hardness:โโโโโโโโโโ(10/10)
first harvest: 20 years
life span: 100 years
succession: Mid
growth rate: Medium
max height: 40.0 m
max width: 0.0 m
soil preference:
Medium (Loam)
pH preference:
Neutral
flower type:
Hermaphrodite
growth details: Teak thrives in tropical climates with well-drained, fertile soils. Prior to planting, prepare the soil by incorporating organic matter to improve fertility and drainage. Mulching around young trees helps retain moisture and suppress weeds. Companion planting with nitrogen-fixing species like pigeon pea can enhance soil fertility. Common mistakes include planting in poorly drained soils and neglecting young trees' water needs. Harvesting for timber should occur when trees are mature, typically a
Potential Disturbances: Teak is susceptible to pests such as the teak defoliator (Hyblaea puera) and teak skeletonizer (Eutectona machaeralis). Natural pest management includes introducing beneficial insects like parasitic wasps to control caterpillar populations. Planting marigolds nearby can help repel some pests. Organic neem oil sprays can also be effective in managing infestations.
Growth Timeline
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