African Mahogany

Location in MGP:

Common Name: African Mahogany

Scientific Name: Khaya senegalensis

Points of Interest:

African Mahogany has been planted extensively throughout Singapore as a shade and avenue tree, in parks and along major roads. 

The wood is highly valued, but it is slightly toxic and contact with the sawdust may cause skin irritation or inflammation. 

Its timber is widely used to manufacture furniture, flooring, and to build boats and decorative veneers. Tannin, which is used for treating leather, can be extracted from the bark.

 (National Parks Board, 2009)

African Mahogany

Trunk

Leaves

Close-up of the leaves

Close-up of the leaves

Reference:

National Parks Board. (2009). Trees of Our Garden City: A Guide to the Common Trees of Singapore. Singapore: National Parks Board.

Australian Brush-Cherry

Location in MGP:

Common Name: Australian Brush-Cherry

Scientific Name: Syzygium campanulatum

Points of Interest:

Even though it is found as a tree in the rainforests, Syzygium campanulatum is often planted as a bushy shrub or hedge along major roads and expressways for screening purposes due to its thick and compact foliage. Its beautiful foliage also makes it a popular choice for landscaping in gardens and parks. 

 (National Parks Board, 2009)

Australian Brush-Cherry

Trunk

Leaves

Reference:

National Parks Board. (2009). Trees of Our Garden City: A Guide to the Common Trees of Singapore. Singapore: National Parks Board.

Bornean Rhu

Location in MGP:

Common Name: Bornean Rhu

Scientific Name: Gymnostoma nobile

Points of Interest:

The Bornean Rhu, like many other coniferous trees, do not produce fruits. Their seeds are instead exposed and occur on woody cones. 

(National Parks Board, 2009)

Bornean Rhu

Cone

Trunk

Leaves

Close-up of the leaves

  

Reference:

National Parks Board. (2009). Trees of Our Garden City: A Guide to the Common Trees of Singapore. Singapore: National Parks Board.

Bottlebrush Tree

Location in MGP:

Common Name: Bottlebrush Tree

Scientific Name: Callistemon citrinus

Points of Interest:

The Bottlebrush Tree is widely-planted by people around the world. The common name 'Bottlebrush' is attributed to the tree's inflorescence, which resemble brushes used to clean milk bottles. The nectar-rich flowers are attractive to hummingbirds, bees and other insects.

Due to its relatively compact form, it can be planted on narrow or restricted verges along minor roads. The flowers have been used by florists in floral arrangements and bouquets. Its wood is used as firewood and to make tool handles. 

(National Parks Board, 2009)

Bottlebrush Tree

Trunk

Leaves with inflorescence

Fruits

Reference:

National Parks Board. (2009). Trees of Our Garden City: A Guide to the Common Trees of Singapore. Singapore: National Parks Board.

Ceylon Ironwood

Location in MGP:

Common Name: Ceylon Ironwood

Scientific Name: Mesua ferrea

Points of Interest:

Ceylon Ironwood is commonly planted along roadsides due to its beautiful red-orange young leaves, which add a splash of color to the landscape. Its wood is so dense and heavy that it will still sink in water after being dried. 
The hard timber is utilized in constructing railway cross-ties, building of boats, tool handles and mine props. 
The leaves have been used to treat fever, conjunctivitis and leprosy. The stamens and seed oil have been traditionally used as medicine to help control excessive hemorrhage. 

The fruit is edible and the oil from the seeds has been used for the production of soap. 

(National Parks Board, 2009)

Ceylon Ironwood

Trunk

Leaves

Reference:

National Parks Board. (2009). Trees of Our Garden City: A Guide to the Common Trees of Singapore. Singapore: National Parks Board.