Tectona grandis is native to Southeast Asia, including countries
like India, Myanmar, Thailand, and Indonesia.
A large, impressive tree grows to height of 40-80
ft or even taller at optimum conditions. Leaves are simple, opposite, large,
coriaceous, elliptic in shape. An inflorescence is panicle. Flowers small, pale
coloured, fragrant. The fruit is capsule.
The most famous and economically valuable part of
Teak is its wood.
Teak wood is known for its durability, strength,
and resistance to decay and insect damage. It has a rich golden-brown color
that darkens with age and exposure to light.
In India, teak plantation on commercial scale was
started by Britishers. Nilambur, situated in the Malappuram District of Kerala
State, holds the distinction of being the birthplace of India\'s inaugural Teak
plantation, established in the 1840s.