Bangkirai, scientifically known as Shorea laevis, belongs to the Dipterocarpaceae family, which includes many tropical hardwoods renowned for their strength, durability, and resistance to harsh environments. It is commonly referred to as Yellow Balau, and is highly valued for outdoor construction, decking, and heavy-duty applications due to its exceptional hardness and weather resistance.
Distribution
Bangkirai is native to the tropical forests of Southeast Asia, primarily found in:
Indonesia – Abundant in Kalimantan (Borneo), Sumatra, and Sulawesi.
Malaysia – Grows in Peninsular Malaysia, Sabah, and Sarawak.
The Philippines – Found in lowland tropical forests.
Thailand and Vietnam – Naturally occurring in dense rainforests and coastal regions.
This species thrives in moist, well-drained soils and is commonly found in tropical lowland and hill forests. It can grow up to 130 feet (40 meters) tall with trunk diameters reaching 3–5 feet (1–1.5 meters).
Color and Appearance
Bangkirai is well known for its rich golden-brown hues and fine texture:
Heartwood: Light golden brown to reddish-brown, darkening over time with exposure to sunlight.
Sapwood: Pale yellow to light brown, distinct from the heartwood.
Grain and Texture: Typically interlocked, sometimes wavy, with a fine to medium texture and a moderate natural luster.
Bark: Dark gray to brown, rough and deeply fissured.
Bangkirai is a dense, heavy hardwood, making it resistant to wear, insects, and fungal decay, which contributes to its long lifespan in outdoor environments.
Ecological and Commercial Value
As a member of the Dipterocarp family, Bangkirai plays a critical role in Southeast Asian rainforests, providing habitat and food for various wildlife. However, unsustainable logging and habitat destruction have led to concerns over its conservation status. FSC-certified and sustainably sourced Bangkirai is essential to ensure its long-term availability.
Commercially, Bangkirai is widely used in:
Outdoor Decking and Boardwalks – One of the most popular choices for high-end decks, patios, and waterfront structures due to its durability and resistance to moisture.
Structural and Marine Applications – Used for bridges, heavy construction, and marine pilings due to its high strength and load-bearing capacity.
Exterior Cladding and Fencing – Common in wall paneling, pergolas, and garden furniture.
Railway Sleepers and Beams – Employed in infrastructure projects where extreme durability is required.
In conclusion, Bangkirai (Shorea laevis) is a strong, resilient tropical hardwood known for its golden-brown color, high density, and excellent durability. Its extensive use in outdoor and heavy-duty applications makes it a valuable timber, reinforcing the need for responsible harvesting and conservation efforts to preserve this remarkable species.
Reference : https://www.pinterest.com/pin/964333338961468457/
