What needs to be known about the Iroko Tree

The Iroko tree is one of Africa’s most famous and valuable hardwood trees — often called the “African teak” because of its strength, durability, and resistance to pests. Here’s a full overview of what you should know about it:

🌳 1. Scientific and Common Information

• Scientific name: Milicia excelsa (also Milicia regia for a similar species)

• Family: Moraceae (same family as figs and mulberries)

• Common names: Iroko, African teak, Odum (Ghana), Rokko (Nigeria, Yoruba: Iroko), Kambala

🏞️ 2. Habitat and Distribution

• Found widely across West, Central, and East Africa, from Senegal to Tanzania.

• Prefers tropical rainforests and savanna woodlands with good drainage.

• Grows well in deep, fertile soils and can reach impressive heights.

🌱 3. Physical Characteristics

• Height: Up to 50 meters (165 feet) tall.

• Trunk diameter: Can reach 2 meters.

• Bark: Grey-brown, rough, and fissured.

• Leaves: Broad, oval, and glossy green.

• Wood color: Golden to medium brown when freshly cut, darkens with age.

💪 4. Properties of Iroko Wood

• Hard, dense, and durable — resistant to termites, fungi, and decay.

• Naturally oily, which makes it weather-resistant.

• Used as a substitute for teak, especially in furniture and marine applications.

🪵 5. Uses of the Iroko Tree

a. Timber and Woodwork

• High-quality furniture, flooring, doors, and paneling.

• Used in boat building and bridge decking.

• Excellent for outdoor structures due to weather resistance.

b. Traditional and Cultural Uses

• Considered sacred in many African cultures.

• The Yoruba people believe the Iroko tree houses a powerful spirit (the “Iroko spirit”), and cutting it down without rituals can bring misfortune.

• Sometimes used in traditional medicine — bark and leaves for treating ailments like fever and cough.

🌍 6. Environmental Importance

• Provides shade, habitat, and food for birds and insects.

• Its deep roots help prevent soil erosion.

• Acts as a carbon sink, helping reduce CO₂ in the atmosphere.

⚠️ 7. Conservation and Challenges

• Classified as “Near Threatened” by the IUCN due to overexploitation and illegal logging.

• Mature Iroko trees take many decades to grow, making regeneration slow.

• Efforts are ongoing in some countries to replant and conserve the species.

🧬 8. Symbolism and Cultural Significance

• Symbolizes strength, protection, and longevity.

• In folklore, it’s said that anyone who harms an Iroko tree without permission may suffer spiritually.

• Often planted in villages or sacred groves as a symbol of unity and tradition.

🌿 Summary Table