Teak

Binomial Tectona grandis L.f.
Family Lamiaceae
Tamil Name Thaekku (தேக்கு)
Tree Large deciduous tree with a rounded crown with large papery leaves
Bark Grey to Greyish brown.
Flowers Small, fragrant, white-coloured arranged in panicles (dense clusters) at the end of the branches.
Fruits Globose
Flowering Period June to August
Fruiting period September to December
Pollinators Insect/wind
Country of origin India and Burma
About the tree Valued for its durability and water resistance, Teak wood has been particularly used in boat building for over 2000 years as well as for exterior construction, furniture, and in wood projects wherein weather resistance is prioritized. In the coastal district of Udupi in South India, the leaves of this tree are used in making Pellakai gatti (jackfruit dumpling), where batter is poured into a teak leaf and steamed. The leaves find application in traditional medicine to treat anaemia, fever, malaria and tuberculosis. The young shoots yield an oil which can be used to treat scabies.