sundri

The sundri, also spelled sundari, refers to the hardwood mangrove tree Heritiera fomes. It is a prominent species in the Sundarbans, the mangrove forest along the Bay of Bengal that extends across southern Bangladesh and eastern India. The sundri is one of the dominant timber trees in its habitat and is highly valued for the durability of its wood.

Description and ecology

Sundri trees can grow to substantial heights and are often characterized by thick trunks and buttressed roots adapted to tidal, brackish conditions. Leaves are simple and leathery, typically dark green. Flowers are small and inconspicuous, and the tree bears woody fruits that disperse via water. In its natural range, the sundri helps stabilize riverbanks and contributes to the structure of the mangrove ecosystem, where it often occurs in association with other mangrove species.

Uses and economic significance

The wood of the sundri is renowned for its strength and resistance to rot, making it a traditional choice for heavy construction, boat-building, and durable furniture. Because of its utility, the species has faced significant harvesting pressure, which has impacted some populations in the wild.

Conservation and status

Overexploitation and habitat loss, along with broader threats to mangrove ecosystems, have led to conservation concerns for sundri populations in parts of its range. Protective measures and mangrove restoration efforts in the Sundarbans and surrounding regions aim to promote sustainable management and regeneration of this important timber species. The name sundri is also linked culturally to the Sundarbans region, with the forest’s name often associated with the sundri trees that once dominated its landscape.