Kempas (Cryptomeria fortunei) - The Durable and Versatile Southeast Asian Tree
Kempas (Latin name: Cryptomeria fortunei) is a species of coniferous tree that is native to Southeast Asia, particularly in Malaysia and Indonesia. It is also known as the "Malaysian cypress" or "Indonesian cypress".
Kempas trees are evergreen, meaning they keep their leaves year-round, and can grow up to 40 meters tall. They have a straight trunk with a narrow, conical crown, and produce small, oval-shaped cones that are around 1-2 cm long. The bark is reddish-brown and peels off in thin strips.
Kempas wood is highly valued for its durability and resistance to decay, making it a popular choice for outdoor furniture, decking, and other construction applications. It is also used for pulpwood and paper production.
In traditional medicine, kempas has been used to treat various ailments such as fever, cough, and respiratory problems. The leaves and twigs are believed to have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, and are used in herbal remedies for wounds and skin conditions.