Chengal Pasir
About the Chengal Pasir in Singapore
Last updated 31 May 2026
The Chengal Pasir (Hopea odorata) is a large, majestic timber tree native to Bangladesh and the Southeast Asian region. While not naturally found in Singapore's wild forests, it is one of the most widely planted trees along our streetscapes.
Identifying features
Check out some identifying features of the Chengal Pasir!
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The Chengal Pasir features a dark brown, fissured bark paired with a dense, dark green canopy that tapers into a distinct conical shape. When the tree is in its reproductive phase, look out for its clusters of small, delicate, pale-yellow flowers. Following the flowering season, you can spot its highly unique, "winged" fruits, each consisting of a small, round nut equipped with two long, prominent wings that help the seeds spin and glide as they fall from the canopy.
Habitat and ecology
Typically found near rivers or streams in its native range, the tree utilizes wind for dispersal. The winged fruit catches the wind as they fall, spinning rapidly like tiny helicopters to travel far away from the parent tree's shadow!
Did you know?
It belongs to the dipterocarp family, famous for producing highly durable, heavy hardwood. Historically, the timber from these trees was prized across the region for building robust boats and houses!
Learn more about the Chengal Pasir!
Curious about the Chengal Pasir? Here are some interesting articles you can read to learn more about them.
