Description: It has a tall, straight trunk with rough, grayish to reddish-brown bark. The large, ovate leaves are leathery and turn yellowish-brown before shedding. The tree is known for its sizable, fragrant flowers, which are creamy white to pale yellow and bloom in dense clusters. These flowers are followed by woody capsules containing seeds.
Substitutions – Shorea indica: Known for its similar timber qualities and large, leathery leaves. It also produces sizable, fragrant flowers and has comparable uses in construction and furniture. – Shorea robusta var. robusta: This variety is similar to Shorea robusta, with overlapping uses and physical traits, but might differ slightly in growth habit or flower color. – Shorea ovalis: Often used interchangeably with Shorea robusta for its strong timber and large foliage, though it may have slightly different flower and fruit characteristics.
Ecology: It prefers well-drained, sandy loam soils with a pH ranging from 5.5 to 7.0. The tree requires ample sunlight and benefits from moderate to high annual rainfall, typically between 1,000 to 2,500 mm. It can tolerate some drought conditions but grows best in areas with a pronounced dry season that allows it to shed leaves and conserve water.
General Distribution: Primarily distributed across the Indian subcontinent, including parts of India, Nepal, Bhutan, and Bangladesh, thriving in tropical forests and hilly regions.
Use: The sal tree’s wood is prized for its strength and durability, making it ideal for construction and furniture, while its resin is used in traditional medicine and varnishes.
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