Among the 33 tree species recognized in China’s national standard for “Redwood,†only one is native to the mainland—Black Dalbergia, found in Yunnan, while Hainan is home to the fragrant Dalbergia. Although the fragrant Dalbergia has gained widespread recognition and is actively cultivated, Black Dalbergia remains relatively unknown, often overlooked despite its high value.
**Yunnan Black Rosewood**
Black Dalbergia, also known as Banna Ebony or “Horn Wood†due to its hard, horn-like texture, is commonly referred to as “Sour Fragrant Tree†because of its distinct scent. It is mainly found in Xishuangbanna, Yunnan, where the local Yi people call it “Buried Color†or simply “Buried.†This rare wood is considered a top-tier material in the redwood classification, valued for its deep black or dark brown heartwood, dense grain, and remarkable durability.
The heartwood of Black Dalbergia is highly prized for making high-end furniture, musical instruments, and interior decor. It is extremely hard, resistant to termites, insects, and moisture, and does not warp or crack easily. Its rich, oily texture makes it ideal for fine craftsmanship and long-lasting use.
Historically, ethnic groups like the Dai people in southern Yunnan have used Black Dalbergia for tools, farm equipment, and even construction. The wood is so durable that some structures made from it can last for centuries.
Currently, China relies heavily on imported redwood materials. With the CITES Convention restricting the trade of several redwood species, many countries have imposed export controls, leading to a severe shortage of raw materials. Planting Black Dalbergia could help address this issue by providing a sustainable domestic resource for the redwood industry.
In addition to its commercial value, Black Dalbergia is also an important host tree for lac insects, which produce shellac—a critical raw material for industries, including military applications. By cultivating Black Dalbergia, farmers can also raise lac insects, generating additional income.
Ecologically, Black Dalbergia is a valuable species. It is resistant to pests and diseases, and when planted alongside coniferous forests, it helps reduce fire risks and improves overall forest stability. It can be mixed with other species like Simao Pine, allowing for the regeneration of low-quality forests into more productive ecosystems.
**Yunnan Black Rosewood**
Unlike monoculture crops such as bananas, lychees, and longans, which are vulnerable to pests and diseases due to their lack of biodiversity, planting Black Dalbergia can create a more resilient environment. Its tall canopy attracts birds and insects that naturally control pest populations, helping to prevent outbreaks.
Black Dalbergia is easy to grow and requires minimal maintenance. It thrives in poor soil, is drought-resistant, and can even regenerate naturally. This makes it an ideal candidate for afforestation projects, especially in degraded areas.
**Yunnan Black Rosewood**
In urban settings, Black Dalbergia serves as an attractive ornamental tree, reaching heights of up to 20 meters with a broad, umbrella-shaped crown. Its strong wind resistance and dense foliage make it ideal for city landscaping. Additionally, its seeds provide food for wildlife, contributing to a vibrant urban ecosystem.
The tree also plays a key role in soil conservation. As a legume, it enriches the soil with nitrogen, improving fertility. Moreover, it supports pollinators and is a source of honey and medicinal compounds.
While Black Dalbergia grows slowly due to its dense wood, this doesn’t mean it lacks economic potential. Farmers can generate income by selling seedlings, landscape trees, or raising poultry under the forest. After the trees mature, they can support eco-tourism, wellness retreats, or small-scale wood product manufacturing.
**Further reading:** What kind of growing environment does the redwood species need?
**Related reading:** Detailed explanation of easily confused redwood species
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