Monkey Pod (Samanea saman) is easily recognized by its characteristic umbrella-shaped canopy . The tree usually reaches 50–80 ft in height with a canopy diameter wider than its height. It is common in the Pacific Rim region as a shade tree on small farms, along roads, in parks and pastures. The tree grows freely almost everywhere it has been introduced and is considered an invasive pest in Vanuatu and Fiji. In many other places it is a useful wood source.
In Thailand, Monkey Pod is mainly grown in the Northern provinces along the neighboring mountainous borders providing a bountiful source of larger wood for the carving industry. Harvested correctly the trunk is left in place and larger limbs are cut for use. Eventually the trunk is cut as it passes its best producing cycle. As this tree grows freely a new tree quickly starts growing. There are no lumber yards for this wood. We cut limbs and trees based on our production need. The wood must be rough cut and carved within several weeks. Otherwise the wood dries out, becomes stringy, and breaks up easily if carved too dry. The wood requires careful drying because of shrinkage and moderate to severe warp. See the carving process section to see how we handle the wood after cutting.