Narras

Narras is the plural form used to describe individual trees of Narra, the common name for Pterocarpus indicus, a tropical hardwood species in the family Fabaceae. The Narra tree is emblematic in several parts of Southeast Asia and is the national tree of the Philippines.

Description: Narra trees are typically tall and straight, reaching 25 to 40 meters in height with broad, spreading canopies. The leaves are pinnate, the flowers small and yellow, and the fruit is a slender pod containing winged seeds. The timber is known for its durable, dense heartwood that ranges from golden to reddish-brown.

Distribution and habitat: Pterocarpus indicus is native to tropical Asia, from India and Sri Lanka through Southeast Asia to the Philippines and parts of Indonesia. It favors well-drained soils in lowland and foothill forests, though it can occur in secondary growth and coastal habitats.

Uses: Narra wood is highly valued for furniture, flooring, cabinetry, and veneers due to its hardness, workability, and attractive grain. The timber is also used in interior joinery and musical instruments. The species is widely planted in reforestation programs.

Conservation and cultural significance: Although the species has a broad range, local populations face threats from overharvesting, habitat loss, and illegal logging. In the Philippines, Narra is celebrated as a national symbol and a focus of forestry conservation and sustainable-use programs. In trade, narras can refer to the timber regardless of the source country.