Dalbergia latifolia
Overview
Species Overview Dalbergia latifolia, commonly known as Indian rosewood or East Indian rosewood, is a large deciduous tree reaching heights of 25-40 meters. The species produces distinctive dark purple-brown heartwood with black streaks, making it one of the world's most prized timber species. As a leguminous tree, it plays a crucial ecological role by fixing nitrogen in soil and supporting diverse wildlife through its flowers, fruits, and canopy structure.
Geographic Range and Habitat Originally native to the Indian subcontinent, particularly India and Sri Lanka, D. latifolia has been widely planted across tropical and subtropical regions. The species now occurs across multiple continents, from Southeast Asia to parts of Africa, the Americas, and Australia. It thrives in tropical deciduous forests, preferring well-drained soils and seasonal rainfall patterns.
Threats The species faces severe pressure from logging and wood harvesting due to its exceptional timber quality, commanding premium prices in international markets. Urban expansion and agricultural conversion for crop production continue to fragment remaining populations. Additionally, unsustainable harvesting practices have depleted natural stands across much of its native range.
Conservation Efforts Several countries have implemented logging restrictions and established protected areas containing D. latifolia populations. Plantation programs and ex-situ conservation initiatives are underway in India and other range countries. The species is listed under CITES Appendix II, regulating international trade.
Current Outlook Despite conservation measures, populations continue declining due to ongoing exploitation pressure and habitat loss. Recovery requires strengthened enforcement of existing protections and expanded sustainable management practices across its range.
Dalbergia latifolia, also known as Indian rosewood, faces pressure from expanding cities and towns that clear forests for new buildings and development. The species is also threatened by logging operations that harvest its valuable timber for furniture and construction, as well as the conversion of its forest habitat to farmland for growing crops. All of these threats are currently ongoing with no clear indication of whether they are increasing or decreasing in intensity.
