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Effects of Cross-Pollination

Effects of Cross-Pollination in Aquilaria Species (Agarwood Trees)

Aquilaria species, particularly Aquilaria malaccensis, are highly valued for their Agarwood production. Cross-pollination in these trees can have both beneficial and challenging effects, impacting resin formation, genetic diversity, and tree health.

Positive Effects of Cross-Pollination in Aquilaria

Increased Genetic Diversity

  • Cross-pollination introduces new genetic traits, making the trees more resilient to diseases, pests, and climate stress.
  • Stronger genetic diversity leads to better adaptation to environmental changes.

Improved Growth Rate & Survival

  • Hybrid Aquilaria trees may exhibit faster growth and improved survival rates, ensuring better plantation success.
  • Trees may develop stronger root systems and enhanced leaf production, leading to higher biomass accumulation.

Potential for Enhanced Resin Production

  • Genetic variation may lead to higher or more consistent Agarwood resin production, which is the most valuable part of the tree.
  • Some hybrids might produce resin faster or with improved quality.

Greater Seed Viability & Pollination Success

  • Cross-pollination can increase the fertility of seeds, leading to better germination rates.
  • This is crucial for sustainable Agarwood plantations and conservation programs.

Negative Effects of Cross-Pollination in Aquilaria

Loss of Specific Traits

  • Uncontrolled cross-pollination may result in loss of desirable characteristics, such as high-resin-producing genetics.
  • Some hybrids may produce lower-quality or less aromatic resin, affecting market value.

Unpredictable Resin Formation

  • Some crossbred trees may not develop Agarwood resin naturally or may require different inoculation techniques.
  • The biochemical properties of Oud oil may vary, affecting fragrance and market demand.

Variability in Growth and Yield

  • While some hybrids grow faster, others may develop weak wood structure or be less adaptable to local conditions.
  • This inconsistency makes it difficult to standardize Agarwood plantation outputs.

Practical Applications of Cross-Pollination in Agarwood Farming

Controlled Breeding Programs – Farmers can select high-yielding parent trees to enhance productivity.
Improved Seedling Varieties – Research institutions can develop elite hybrid seedlings with higher resin content.
Better Disease Resistance – Crossbreeding with naturally pest-resistant species can reduce chemical pesticide dependence.

Key Consideration:
To maintain high-quality Agarwood production, controlled breeding and scientific propagation methods (e.g., organogenesis, tissue culture) should be used alongside cross-pollination strategies.

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Discover the Rare Beauty of Aquilaria parvifolia (Butlong-liitan)

A Living Treasure of the Philippines

Aquilaria parvifolia, locally known as Butlong-liitan, is a rare and exquisite native agarwood-producing species from the Thymelaeaceae family. It is the smallest among its genus, standing at just 1 meter tall, making it a perfect ornamental plant for gardens, botanical collections, and conservation exhibits.

Why Choose Aquilaria parvifolia?
Rare & Exclusive – A unique Philippine-native species, seldom found in cultivation.
Compact & Elegant – Ideal for limited spaces, bonsai enthusiasts, and ornamental gardens.
Distinctive Features – Striking reddish fruits and lush green foliage similar to Aquilaria cumingiana (Butlo).
Perfect for Exhibitions – A stunning display plant that showcases biodiversity and conservation efforts.

Cultivated with Care at Nalihawan Agarwood Farm
Since 2019, Putz Agarwood Farm Corporation’s Nalihawan Agarwood Farm in Antique has been home to this exceptional species, thriving alongside three other Aquilaria varieties in a 20+ hectare forested area.

Our Mission: Conservation & Distribution
We are dedicated to propagating A. parvifolia for wider distribution as a premium ornamental plant, ensuring its preservation while allowing plant collectors, botanical gardens, and nature lovers to experience its beauty firsthand. However, due to its unique blooming challenges, this species remains extremely rare and highly sought-after.

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Aquilaria cumingiana: A Rare and Valuable Agarwood Species

Aquilaria cumingiana is a small evergreen tree, reaching up to 5 meters in height. Like other members of its genus, this tree produces precious agarwood when its heartwood is naturally infected by a fungus. Highly aromatic and prized for incense, perfume, and medicine, agarwood has been a sought-after commodity for centuries.

Why is Aquilaria cumingiana so valuable?
Source of Agarwood – Used in luxury perfumes, incense, and traditional medicine.
Natural Fiber Provider – The plant also yields a useful fiber for various applications.
Rare & Endangered – Listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List due to overharvesting and habitat loss.

The Conservation Challenge
Due to its high commercial value, many trees are cut down prematurely—even those uninfected by the fungus—in an attempt to obtain the rare agarwood. This unsustainable practice has led to overexploitation and declining populations across its natural range.

Our Mission: Sustainable Cultivation & Conservation
To protect Aquilaria cumingiana and ensure a future for this valuable species, sustainable harvesting and ethical sourcing are essential. We support reforestation, responsible cultivation, and propagation efforts to preserve this unique tree for generations to come.

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Aquilaria malaccensis: The Queen of Agarwood

Aquilaria malaccensis, also known as Aloes wood or Malacca eaglewood, is the primary source of agarwood—a prized resinous heartwood used in luxury perfumes, incense, and traditional medicine. This tropical tree can grow up to 40 meters tall and 12 meters wide, boasting smooth, pale bark, sword-shaped leaves, and delicate white flowers.

Why is Aquilaria malaccensis so valuable?
Premium Agarwood Source – Its resin is one of the most sought-after for perfume and incense.
Medicinal Properties – Used in Western, Chinese, and Indian medicine to relieve spasms, lower fever, and even support cancer treatments.
Culinary Use – The bark and seeds are edible and can be used to flavor curries.

How is Agarwood Formed?
When infected by the parasitic fungus Phaeoacremonium parasitica, A. malaccensis produces fragrant, dark resin as a defense mechanism. This resin-soaked wood is then harvested for its unique aroma and therapeutic benefits.

Conservation Alert!
Due to overharvesting and high demand, Aquilaria malaccensis is classified as Critically Endangered. Unsustainable harvesting threatens wild populations, making ethical and sustainable sourcing essential.

Join Us in Preserving This Precious Tree!
Support sustainable agarwood farming and responsible sourcing to protect this legendary species for generations to come.