An alternative to Eucalyptus: Terminalia sericea

Terminalia sericea produces tough, durable and termite-resistant poles. The species is widespread on sandy soils in the medium to low rainfall areas of southern and south-central Africa. Where it produces straight poles, it is the preferred timber for building. Its variability in habit, and its apparent ability to produce hybrids with related species, indicate good prospects for genetic improvement. Although not as fast growing as Eucalyptus, its resistance to termites, both during growth and as timber, together with its tolerance of marginal sandy soils which have no agricultural potential, indicate a potential for development as a commercial timber.