Unravelling the identity of Sindora(Fabaceae, Detarioideae) trees in the historical landscapes of Singapore

A comprehensive survey of Sindora trees (Fabaceae, Detarioideae) in Singapore's historical landscapes reveals the presence of at least 26 mature individuals, with eight surviving across three key sites: Singapore Botanic Gardens, Fort Canning Park, and Changi Village Estate. Among these, five species or hybrids were identified, including a newly elucidated hybrid, Sindora × changiensis, which combines genetic material from S. coriacea and S. echinocalyx. The study also suggests that the iconic 'Changi Tree,' felled in 1942, was likely a S. echinocalyx based on herbarium evidence. This research underscores the conservation significance of these trees, highlighting their role in maintaining genetic diversity outside nature reserves and serving as living remnants of Singapore's botanical history.

Choo, L. M., Ang, W. F., Loo, A. H. B., & Er, K. B. H. (2022). Unravelling the identity of Sindora(Fabaceae, Detarioideae) trees in the historical landscapes of Singapore. Gardens’ Bulletin Singapore, 74(2), 159–181. https://doi.org/10.26492/gbs74(2).2022-04