A genus in the family Dipterocarpaceae.
Anisoptera laevis
mersawa durian
Malaya, Sumatra & Borneo. Most common of genera widely distributed between 300 & 900 m. Vulnerable, due to logging & habitat loss; small smooth leaf, sparse reddish scales on lower surface. Planted 6/07.
Images from September 2022:
Anisoptera marginata
mersawa paya
E Sumatra, Malaya, Borneo. In Malaya near coastal peat swamp forest of S Perak, Selangor,
Pahang, and Johor. Critically endangered by land conversion. Smooth leaves, bright yellow under.
1 fr TH 11/09
Images from September 2022:
Anisoptera scaphula
mersawa gajah
South from Chittagong; most common in north of Malaya but found as far south as NS. Favours low altitudes and deep gorges, now endangered through range. Large thin glabrous leaf. Very large trees, up to 9m girth. Planted 6/07.
Images from September 2022:
Anisoptera sp.
mersawa
Small genus of about 14 species, 7 in Malay peninsula. Most have distinctive leaf: prominent looped marginal vein. High silica content of wood
makes sawing difficult. Large buttresses were frequently cut to make pans for tin washing.
