Science · Plants, Natives & Crops
Gmelina
Gmelina is cultivated for timber and fiber on sites where moist, fertile, freely drained soils support rapid growth. Nursery hygiene, early competition management and protection from stem-damaging pests are important for establishing productive plantations.
Profile
- Origin
- South and Southeast Asia, extending into parts of East Asia.
- Growth habit
- Large deciduous tree with a spreading crown.
- Light
- Light-demanding, although some shade is tolerated.
- Soil
- Prefers moist, fertile, freely drained soils.
- Soil reaction
- The Agroforestree profile records occurrence on acidic and calcareous soils without specifying a universal pH optimum.
- Seed handling
- The Tamil Nadu Agricultural University nursery page describes a 24-hour cold-water presoak.
Water & soil context
- Moisture (VWC)
- No numeric root-zone volumetric water content target is specified in the cited publications.
- Salinity tolerance
- No numeric soil-salinity or irrigation-water EC threshold is specified in the cited publications.
- Drought tolerance
- The cited sources do not define a numeric drought threshold; preference for moist soils should guide general site screening.
Illustrative monitoring-depth band
6–12 in
Editorial placement example, not a validated optimum or total rooting depth. Confirm the site's root distribution and soil horizons; multiple depths may be needed.
Provide moisture without sacrificing drainage, particularly in nursery production. Do not substitute climatic rainfall ranges for an irrigation prescription.
Problems to watch
- Nursery damping-off, root-collar disease and seedling wilt can cause losses.
- Root rot, stem cankers and bark diseases can damage plantations.
- Stem borers and defoliators can reduce survival and timber quality.
Stress signs
- Seedling wilting can accompany nursery pathogens.
- Chlorosis and vascular damage are reported with plantation diseases.
- Branch dieback can follow basal girdling by bark disease.
Where you'll find it
- Furniture and general timber
- Pulp and fiber
- Carving and musical instruments
More plants, natives & crops
Published botanical and soil references are distinct from GroundWorx product guidance. Moisture thresholds and monitoring depths require site calibration; sources do not establish product performance or diagnose stress.