Suren
Toona surenifam. Meliaceae
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Pl. 0D3B — Toona sureni
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IOverview
Overview
Suren, scientifically known as Toona sureni, is a deciduous tree native to regions such as Assam, Bangladesh, Borneo, Cambodia, and China South-Central. This tree thrives in moist environments with medium to heavy clay soil and prefers full sun. It can grow up to 35 meters tall and is hardy in zones 9-12. Suren is valued for its edible shoots, making it a useful plant in local cuisine. Its native range extends through East Himalaya, Hainan, Jawa, Laos, Lesser Sunda Islands, Malaya, Maluku, Myanmar, Nepal, New Guinea, Philippines, Solomon Islands, Sulawesi, Sumatera, Thailand, and Vietnam, showcasing its adaptability across various climates in Southeast Asia.
Quick answers
What is Suren?
Suren, scientifically known as Toona sureni, is a deciduous tree native to regions such as Assam, Bangladesh, Borneo, Cambodia, and China South-Central. This tree thrives in moist environments with medium to heavy clay soil and prefers full sun.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Suren thrives in full sun and prefers moist, medium to heavy clay soil. It is hardy in zones 9-12 and can grow up to 35 meters tall. For propagation, shoot cuttings are effective. Ensure the plant has consistent moisture and plenty of light for optimal growth.
Light
Full sun
Water
Moist
Soil
Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
9-12
Mature size
35.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Suren for the first time
8steps
Start with a simple Suren tree in your garden for a rewarding beginner project.
- 1
What you'll need
A young Suren sapling, a small trowel, and some compost.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant the sapling during spring or early summer when temperatures are mild.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Choose a well-draining spot with rich, moist soil. Amend the soil with compost if needed.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant the sapling into your prepared garden bed, ensuring it is planted at the same depth as in its container.
- 5
First two weeks
Water the tree regularly to keep the soil moist. Monitor for any signs of stress or pests.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun and regular watering, especially during dry spells. Prune lightly in late winter to maintain shape.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune the tree annually in late winter to encourage healthy growth and remove any dead branches.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting too deep, neglecting regular pruning, using harsh pesticides, and not providing enough sunlight.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Shoots
Edible uses: The shoots of Suren are edible and can be eaten raw or cooked. They are commonly prepared in stir-fries or soups, adding a tender texture and mild flavor to dishes.
Other uses:Essential OilFiberLumberPest controlWind breakerWeaving material
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
21 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
21 native · 0 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 21 native
Asia10 regions
native (10)BangladeshCambodiaChinaIndiaLaosMyanmarNepalPhilippinesThailandVietnam
Broader regions
native:Borneo, East Himalaya, Hainan, Jawa, Malaya, Maluku, New Guinea, Solomon Is., Sulawesi, Sumatera, Lesser Sunda Is.
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Meliaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Meliaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
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Companion planting
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Growing zone
XII
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