Mangkono

Description:

Mangkono, scientifically called Xanthostemon verdugonianus Naves, is known to be the hardest Philippine hardwood species. Cutting a 70-cm thick tree with axes normally requires three hours, but cutting a Mangkono tree with the same diameter usually takes two to four days. Diamond-point saws have been used exclusively but a great volume of water is needed to counter overheating (wikipedia).

Habitat:

The species is endemic to the Philippines and is known to have a very limited habitat. It is indigenous only within the so-called ‘Mangkono Triangle’ area, consisting of the Dinagat Island in Surigao, the Homonhon Island in Samar, Babatngon, Leyte, and in Palawan (wikipedia).

Notes:

This species is propagated at Mount Makiling Botanical Garden