Teak
Tectona grandis
Grandis
About this plant
Teca grandis, commonly known as teak, is a large tropical hardwood tree valued for its durable and water-resistant timber. It has broad leaves and produces small yellowish flowers. Teak wood is widely used in furniture and boat building due to its strength and resistance to decay.
Taxonomy
- Genus
- Tectona
- Family
- Lamiaceae
- Higher classification
- Order: Lamiales
- Plant type
- Tree
- Lifespan
- Perennial
Origin & Distribution
- Native region
- India, Myanmar, Thailand, Laos
- Distribution
- Native to South and Southeast Asia, widely cultivated in tropical regions worldwide including Africa and Latin America.
Care
- Light preference
- Full sun
- Suitable locations
- Outdoor, Greenhouse
- Preferred window facing
- South-facing, Southwest-facing, Southeast-facing
- Watering frequency
- Moderate
- Watering interval
- 5–10 days
- Humidity
- Normal
- Minimum
- 10 °C
- Maximum
- 40 °C
- Optimal
- 22-35 °C
- USDA hardiness zones
- 10-12
- Soil pH
- 6.5-7.5
- Soil type
- well-draining loam
Watering. Water young plants regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged. Established trees are drought tolerant and need less frequent watering.
Fertilizing. Apply a balanced fertilizer during the growing season to support healthy growth. Organic compost or well-rotted manure can also be beneficial.
Teca grandis is a fast-growing tree that prefers warm climates and well-drained soil. It tolerates drought once established but needs regular watering when young. It requires moderate care, including occasional pruning to maintain shape and health.
Propagation
- Propagation methods
- Seeds, Cuttings
- Care difficulty
- Medium
Ornamental features
- Flowering
- Yes
- Flowering period
- spring
Large broad leaves, attractive yellowish flowers, and a tall straight trunk.
Toxicity & Safety
- Toxic to humans
- Non-toxic
- Toxic to pets
- Non-toxic
- Weed potential
- Not considered a weed
Non-toxic to humans and pets. Safe to have around children and animals.
Allergy information
- Allergy risk
- Low
- Allergy triggers
- Pollen, Skin contact
- Pollen level
- Moderate
Teca grandis may produce pollen that can cause mild allergic reactions in sensitive individuals, such as sneezing or itchy eyes. To reduce exposure, avoid being near the tree during its flowering season and wash hands after handling leaves or wood.
Common problems
Common problems include leaf spots and fungal infections if grown in overly wet or poorly drained soil. Young plants may suffer from pests like caterpillars or borers.
Uses
Primarily grown for its valuable hardwood used in furniture, flooring, and boat building. Also planted as a shade and ornamental tree in tropical gardens.
Notes
Prune dead or damaged branches to encourage healthy growth. Repotting is not applicable as it is a large tree usually grown outdoors. Sensitive to frost and cold temperatures.