Abstract
Of the 150 Dalbergia species distributed throughout the tropics, 42, including 20 tree species, are known to occur in India and Burma. Information available on 15 species shows substantial diversity in wood characteristics. This paper presents data on wood structure, physical and mechanical properties, durability, drying and working quality, and potential end-uses. It also discusses the scope for genetic improvement of unique timbers such as D. latifolia, D. sissoides and D. sissoo