This is a tropical hardwood tree species in the family Lamiaceae. It is a large, deciduous tree that occurs in mixed hardwood forests. Tectona grandis has small, fragrant white flowers arranged in dense clusters ( panicles) at the end of the branches. These flowers contain both types of reproductive organs ( perfect flowers). The species is hermaphroditic and pollinated by insects such as black ants, horse flies, and particularly by bees. Fruits mature about 4 months after fertilization. Premature shedding of fruit is a problem. A rare combination of superior physical and mechanical properties makes T. grandis a paragon of timber, and there is no likelihood of it being eclipsed by any other. The wood is a medium weight timber that is rather soft and has a characteristic appearance. The heartwood is often dull yellowish when freshly cut but turns golden brown or sometimes dark greyish-brown after exposure, often streaked grey or black.