Magnolia balansae
Aug. DC.
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A tree. It grows 20 m tall. The trunk is 60 cm across. The trunk is straight. The bark is greyish brown. The leaves are simple and alternate. They are broadly oval and 10-20 cm long by 4-10 cm wide. There are silvery hairs underneath. The flowers are in the axils of leaves and have a scent. The fruit is compound with many separate follicles. These are 30-45 mm long by 15-18 mm wide. They split by 2 valves when ripe. There are 1-5 seeds in each follicle. The seeds are red when mature.
Edible Uses
The seeds are used as a spice.
Distribution
It is a tropical plant. It grows below 1,000 m above sea level.
Where It Grows
Asia, China, SE Asia, Vietnam,
Cultivation
A shade tolerant plant. Prefers a deep, fertile, moist soil. A slow-growing tree. Natural regeneration is good under thin forest cover..
Other Uses
The heartwood is brown, clearly demarcated from the brownish-yellow sapwood. The timber is very hard, texture fine, aromatic, grain fine, resistant to termites and insects. It is used for construction, making furniture and art articles.
Synonyms
Also Known As
Gioi, Gioi ba, Gioi long
References (2)
- Van Sam, H. et al, 2004, Trees of Laos and Vietnam: A Field Guide to 100 Economically or Ecologically Important Species. Blumea 29 (2004) 201-349 (As Michelia balansae)
- Van Sam, H. et al, 2008, Uses and Conservation of Plant Species in a National Park. A case study of Ben En, Vietnam. Economic Botany 62:574-593 (As Michelia balansae)
