Mangium and other fast-growing acacias of the humid tropics

This report describes mangium"s characteristics, cultivation, and uses, proposing that it be incorporated into further trials with other fast-growing tropical trees. The tree deserves study, the authors note, because of its fast growth rate; ability to survive in low pH soils; prolific seed production; easy propagation; and dense, all-purpose hardwood. Mangium is compared with other fast-growing species; the tree"s good shade, windbreak, and nitrogen-fixing qualities are noted and its growth requirements (e.g., temperature range, rainfall, shade tolerance, and soil requirements) and natural symbioses are described. Production and management of mangium (collection and handling of seed pods, seed storage and planting, plantation management, growth rate, diseases, pests, and other plantation problems) are discussed next. Mangium"s potential uses as fuelwood and lumber are then considered. Finally, nine other promising Australian Acacias are described and research needs are identified. Appended are photographs depicting growth on Mangium plantations and a 47-item bibliography (1963-1982).