Framework Trees Species

Ficus altissima figs. All Ficus species can be considered as framework tree species. Figs are a reliable food source for seed-dispersing animals when other foods are in short supply.The framework tree species, listed below, are recommended for planting, to complement natural forest regeneration on Stage 3 Degradation Sites within 10 km of natural forest remnants and where seed-dispersing animals remain extant. They have high survival and growth rates, when planted out in exposed deforested sites. They suppress weed growth either by shading out weeds or by producing allelopathic substances (natural weed killers). They attract seed-dispersing wildlife by producing nectar-rich flowers and/or edible fruits early in life. They may also provide perching, nesting or roosting sites for birds. Planting mixtures of 15-30 species can thus catalyse rapid recovery of tree species richness by facilitating natural seed dispersal.

• Upland Evergreen Forest of northern Thailand (higher than 1,000 m above sea level)
• Lowland Deciduous Forest of northern Thailand (below 1,000 m above sea level)
• Lowland Tropical Forest of southern Thailand (below 1,000 m above sea level)