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Ms. Hema Vijay, in her article entitled ‘A cool tree to ward off heat’, which appeared in the Property Plus on March 2, 2008 has given an account of “Poovarasa Maram’ – Thespesia populnea of the family Malvaceau. However the picture given is not of this species, but a different one, Hibiscus tiliaceus belonging to the same family. The highlighted use of the leaves as ‘Thilai ilai’ also suits the latter tree only.
The author might have got confused between these two different species. Ms. Hema has also reported that Thespesia is not suited for wind prone areas.
I would like to bring to the notice of the readers, the utility of Thespesia as a living fence post. It is an excellent wind break in coastal areas due to its dense crown and tolerance to wind and salt spray.
The major utility value of the tree as timber needs special mention. It is a timber of great utility, mainly being used for furniture and agricultural implements.
It is an easy timber to saw and work and can be brought to a smooth surface and also takes a high polish. The wood is highly valued in coastal regions of Kerala because it does not split. It is highly resistant to dry wood termites also.
Kannan C.S.Warrier,
Scientist,
Institute of Forest Genetics and Tree Breeding,
R.S.Puram,
Coimbatore - 641002
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