Batai

Falcataria moluccana

Physical Characteristics

Falcataria moluccana is a TREE growing to 35 m (114ft) by 30 m (98ft) at a fast rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 10. The flowers are pollinated by Insects. It can fix Nitrogen. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils, prefers well-drained soil and can grow in nutritionally poor soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils and can grow in very acid and very alkaline soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers moist soil. The plant is not wind tolerant.

Distribution

Pacific area - Indonesia, Solomon Islands and Papua New Guinea.

Habitats

Edible Uses

None known

Medicinal Uses

None known

Known Hazards

Dust from machining may be irritating[ 316 ].