Keruing is the common name for several species within the Dipterocarpus genus, belonging to the Dipterocarpaceae family. These trees are highly valued for their durability, strength, and resin-rich properties, making them widely used in construction and industrial applications. Some of the most commercially important species include:
Dipterocarpus turbinatus
Dipterocarpus grandiflorus
Dipterocarpus alatus
Distribution
Keruing trees are native to the tropical forests of Southeast Asia and South Asia, thriving in humid, lowland areas. Their primary distribution includes:
Indonesia – Found in Sumatra, Borneo, and Sulawesi.
Malaysia – Common in Peninsular Malaysia, Sabah, and Sarawak.
Thailand, Vietnam, and Myanmar – Grows extensively in tropical and subtropical regions.
The Philippines – Flourishes in rainforests and lowland forests.
India and Bangladesh – Found in northeastern forests.
Keruing trees typically grow to 100–130 feet (30–40 meters) tall, with trunk diameters reaching 3–5 feet (1–1.5 meters). They prefer well-drained, fertile soils and are commonly found in moist deciduous and evergreen forests.
Color and Appearance
Keruing is recognized for its warm, natural tones and coarse texture, making it suitable for heavy-duty applications:
Heartwood: Light reddish-brown to dark brown, sometimes with a slightly purplish or grayish tint. The color deepens over time when exposed to air and sunlight.
Sapwood: Pale yellow to light brown, providing a clear contrast with the heartwood.
Grain and Texture: Straight to slightly interlocked grain, with a coarse, uneven texture due to its high resin content.
Bark: Dark gray to reddish-brown, rough and fissured, often exuding a sticky, fragrant resin.
One of Keruing’s defining characteristics is its naturally high oil and resin content, which enhances its resistance to moisture, insects, and decay. However, this also makes it prone to surface checking (small cracks) when exposed to extreme conditions.
Ecological and Commercial Value
Keruing plays a vital ecological role in Southeast Asian rainforests, supporting diverse wildlife and ecosystems. However, deforestation and overharvesting have led to a decline in its natural populations, making sustainable sourcing and FSC certification increasingly important.
Commercially, Keruing is widely used in:
Plywood and Veneers – One of the primary raw materials for high-strength plywood and engineered wood products.
Truck Flooring and Heavy-Duty Construction – Its high density and durability make it ideal for truck beds, bridges, and industrial flooring.
Exterior Cladding and Outdoor Furniture – Used in decking, pergolas, and garden structures due to its weather resistance.
Boatbuilding and Railway Sleepers – Suitable for marine applications and railway ties due to its strength and resilience.
In conclusion, Keruing (Dipterocarpus spp.) is a versatile, durable, and resin-rich tropical hardwood, valued for its strength, natural resistance, and wide-ranging applications. Its extensive use in construction, plywood production, and industrial flooring highlights its commercial importance, emphasizing the need for sustainable forestry practices to preserve this valuable resource.
Reference : https://www.pinterest.com/pin/521713938096967890/
