Canarium

Canarium harveyi, leaves, fruits

Canarium is a genus of tropical and subtropical trees in the family Burseraceae. The genus comprises approximately 75 species, which are native to the tropical regions of Africa, Asia, and the Pacific. These trees are known for their economic and ecological importance, providing timber, resin, and edible nuts.

Description

Canarium species are typically large trees, reaching heights of up to 40 meters. They have compound leaves with 3 to 15 leaflets, and their flowers are small, white, and fragrant, arranged in panicles. The fruit is a drupe, which varies in size and shape among species, and contains one to three seeds.

Distribution

The genus Canarium is widely distributed across tropical Africa, Southeast Asia, and the Pacific islands. Notable regions include Madagascar, the Philippines, Indonesia, and Papua New Guinea.

Economic Importance

Several species of Canarium are of significant economic value:

• Canarium indicum - Known as the Java almond or kenari nut, it is cultivated for its edible nuts.
• Canarium luzonicum - Known for producing elemi resin, which is used in varnishes and perfumes.
• Canarium ovatum - Known as the pili nut, it is valued for its edible seeds and oil.

Ecological Role

Canarium trees play a crucial role in their ecosystems. They provide habitat and food for various wildlife species, including birds and mammals. The trees are also important for maintaining forest structure and health.

Species

Some notable species within the genus Canarium include:

• Canarium album
• Canarium harveyi
• Canarium indicum
• Canarium luzonicum
• Canarium ovatum

Uses

Canarium species are utilized in various ways:

• Timber - The wood of Canarium trees is used in construction and furniture making.
• Resin - Elemi resin from Canarium luzonicum is used in the production of varnishes, adhesives, and perfumes.
• Nuts - The nuts of Canarium indicum and Canarium ovatum are consumed as food and used to produce oil.

Conservation

Many Canarium species are threatened by habitat loss and overexploitation. Conservation efforts are essential to protect these valuable trees and their habitats.

Related Pages

• Burseraceae
• Elemi
• Pili nut
• Java almond