The potential of Azadirachta excelsa characteristics as urban trees in residential areas

Abstract

Residential areas have the potential to conserve economically and ecologically important local tree species. However, local species to be planted in residential areas, including business and office districts, have to meet certain criteria in accordance mainly with the significant tree functions and services. This study was aimed at investigating the potential of Kayu bawang (Azadirachta excelsa) based on the desired characteristics for urban trees. The analysis of tree characteristics was based on their morphometrics which has been conducted in two planting systems, namely monoculture and polyculture, found on the private forests in Bengkulu Province. The two planting systems of Kayu bawang were reflected in the target location (e.g., roadside, park, and yard). Variables used for assessment included total height, the diameter of breast height, clear stem height, live crown height, the diameter of the crown, live crown ratio, crown projection area, and slenderness ratio. The results showed that the tree crown architecture is classified as decurrent, while the average live crown ratio (LCR) was moderate, which had an average live crown ratio (LCR) of 51-64 %, meaning not too dense appearance. The average slenderness ratio (SR) is generally moderate, where SR of Kayu bawang in monoculture system was 76, polyculture was 54 to 81. It can be concluded that this species does not really meet the criteria as urban trees on roadside because they have moderate LCR and SR values, but they can be used to enrich parks and other sites for promoting local tree identity.