Identification And Utilization Of Lesser-Known Commercial Timbers In Peninsular Malaysia 12: Pagar Anak, Pepauh, Pepijat And Pepulut

This article will provide some information on another four lesser-known timbers (LKT), particularly on their identification from Peninsular Malaysia. The timbers selected are pagar anak (Ixonanthes spp.), pepauh (Melicope spp.), pepijat (Prunus spp.) and pepulut (Chrysophyllum lanceolatum). The fact that they are LKT implies that most of them may not be large or in good form and their occurrence in the forest may not be abundant. Pagar anak is a small to medium-sized trees and occurs throughout the country in both primary and secondary forests. It is a heavy timber and the timber can be used for purposes where strength is required. Flat-sawn material is rather decorative due to the presence of banded parenchyma. Pepauh is a light hardwood and its uses may be similar to that of some other light-coloured timbers like sesendok, rubberwood, pulai and jelutong. Pepijat is a medium density timber and it can be used for purposes such as medium construction under cover. Pepulut is a light-coloured timber and it may be used as a substitute for ramin and other light or white-coloured timbers.