Known as the Philippines’ national tree, Narra is also known as the Red Sandalwood tree which is native to the southeast and eastern part of Asia and extends into the northern and southwest part of the Pacific region. In the Philippines, it is mostly found in Bicol, Mindanao, and Cagayan Valley forests. The Narra wood is known to be hard and heavy that withstands strong winds, and has a lifelong usability; which became the prominent type of wood used in furniture and woodworks. However, it is now prohibited to cut down a Narra tree since it was considered an endangered type of native tree in the Philippines.
The Narra tree grows from seeds and cuttings and has also a low potential to disturb other native plants in the community which is very ideal for rehabilitating a deforested area. It is also less susceptible to diseases and pests which may harm a habitat living in the area. Also, its young leaves and flowers are said to be edible and a good source of honey. These characteristics makes the Narra tree suitable for rehabilitating the environment in consideration of our native biodiversity.
However, you may not want to think of planting a Narra tree in your garden because its massive size and spread are unsuitable for home gardens and small backyards, but you can initiate by giving more awareness on how we can preserve this native tree in our country.
Share your thoughts with us and discuss what you know about the Narra tree.