A Multipurpose Tree for Puerto Rico

Abstract

Cadam (Anthocaephalus cadamba Miq.) grows very rapidly on a wide variety of sited in Puerto Rico. Tree form is excellent, seed is produced in abundance every year by mature trees, planting is easy and cheap, and relatively little care is required after planting. No important attacks of insects of disease have occurred on trees grown in Puerto Rico for 35 years. The moderate density (0.45 based on green volume and oven-dry weight) and very low volumentric shrinkage (10 percent) from green to oven-dry condition, together with excellent machining characteristics, indicate many possible uses for locally-grown cadam. An industrial complex centered on plywood manufacture could convert residues into particle board. Included should be a modest sawmill for converting lower log grades into lumber for furniture and millwork. Chemical treatments now available add the durability and termite resistance not provided by nature.

Keywords

cadam, Puerto Rico

Citation

Chudnoff, Martin; Briscoe, C. B. 1965. A Multipurpose Tree for Puerto Rico. Rio Piedras, Puerto Rico: US Forest Service Institute of Tropical Forestry. 16 p.