The Narra tree, scientifically known as Pterocarpus indicus, stands as an iconic and culturally significant species in various parts of Southeast Asia, particularly in the Philippines, where it holds the esteemed title of the national tree. Revered for its majestic stature and distinctively durable hardwood, the Narra tree has played a pivotal role in the region’s history and culture.
One the one hand there is the humble Narra, with good workability and dimensional stability (much like other members of the Pterocarpus genus)—on the other hand there is the exotic and highly-prized burl wood known as Amboyna. Both come from the same tree (Pterocarpus indicus), though the resemblance between the two is virtually unrecognizable.
The narra tree is a grand tropical legume prized for its golden blooms, strong wood, and cultural value. This guide covers identification, uses, care, laws, and why people across Asia value the narra tree.
narra, (genus Pterocarpus), genus of timber trees of the pea family (Fabaceae), native to Asia and Africa. Narra wood is primarily used for cabinetwork; it is usually red or rose colour, often variegated with yellow. The wood is hard and heavy, and the pattern of the grain and the colouring are hardly equaled by any other timber. The name refers especially to Pterocarpus indicus, or India ...
What is the Narra tree? Maybe you have seen this plant before but needed to recognize it- Narra, the Philippines’ national tree. Many Narra trees can be found throughout Metro Manila and the surrounding provinces of the Philippines. They usually bloom during the hot, dry summer, creating a magnificent sight of a tree. They are nearly full of fragrant yellow minute flowers that have fallen to ...