This work supplies the scientific information vital to support the conservation and sustainable use of this important source of timber. Cedrela has had over 250 years of commercial exploitation and is one of the most important tropical American hardwoods - perhaps now the most important. Seventeen species are recognized, including four previously undescribed species. DNA studies suggest that the heavily traded Cedrela odorata has multiple origins and may comprise at least three distinct species. This work is a conservation tool for foresters, planners, researchers and policy makers.
With drawings by Rosemary Wise