Hi,

I'm going through another one of these discussions where I am trying to get native trees for the farm and being told that there isn't and has never been this kind of tree in Thailand and to look for something else.

As usual, I believe it is more than likely here with a little looking. Does anyone here have another name for it, or even know someone who sells them.

Tree Species: Gmelina Arboria

kew link

wikipedia link

wikipedia in thai

Wikipedia, Kew, and a lot of other credible sources all say it is natural to Thailand, so I am trying to stay positive that it does actually exist here. I have a friend in Philippines who grows it so might have to get one from there if nothing surfaces here.

Thanks.

I am not familiar with this species, but for this and other Thai native tree issues, I would suggest you connect with my friend Ricky Ward of Chiang Mai, who is one of the most knowledgeable horticulturists in the country for native Thailand trees. He is also connected through his FB page with some of the most prominent and knowledgeable Thai forestry experts from the ag universities, Royal Forestry Dept, etc. He has an amazing network of resources, including gov and ngo tree nurseries around the north that grow for reforestation projects. Ricky will probably go out of his way to help you find what you are looking for. If you don't use FB, connect with him through http://ourchiangmai.com/ or PM me and I'll give you email.

Thanks for the great advice drtreelove. Will update this thread if/when I find it for others.

My friend in the Phillipines says it's a big earner over there as it grows quick and the wood is really good for building as well as being medicinal.