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Gmelina arborea Kenya

plantation: Bore, Kenya

Features

Family: Lamiaceae
Common names: Gmelina, Melina, Peuplier d'Afrique.
Type of foliage: Semi-deciduous
Life expectancy: 50 years
Total weight of CO2 captured: 150 Kg
Height: 15 m

Presentation

Gmelina arborea is a deciduous tree species native to Africa and Asia, including Kenya. It can grow up to 30 meters in height and is valued for its durable wood used in construction and furniture. It also has traditional medicinal uses and is used in agroforestry systems for soil conservation and shade.
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Usefulness of the tree

The Gmelina arborea species has various utilities such as:

1. Timber production: It is highly valued for its straight and durable wood, which is used for furniture, joinery, and construction.

2. Traditional medicine: Its bark, leaves, and roots have been reported to have various pharmacological properties, including antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant activities.

3. Agroforestry: The tree is planted for soil conservation and as a shade tree for crops.

4. Carbon sequestration: The tree plays a vital role in absorbing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and storing it in the form of biomass, thus helping to mitigate the effects of climate change.

5. Landscaping and ornamentation: Gmelina arborea is often planted as an ornamental tree in parks and gardens due to its attractive foliage and flowers.

Overall, Gmelina arborea is a versatile species that has multiple utilities and is beneficial to both the environment and human society.
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