Time to First Flowering (Blooming)
- Typically: 5 to 8 years after planting
- Under ideal conditions (good soil, full sun, proper care): as early as 4–5 years
- From direct seeding vs nursery-grown seedlings:
- Nursery-grown (transplanted): slightly faster, more uniform flowering
- Direct seeding: may take longer and be less consistent
Flowering Characteristics
- Season: Usually blooms during the dry season (around late summer in the Philippines)
- Pattern: Not always heavy flowering every year in early stages
- Maturity effect: More abundant flowering once the tree reaches 10+ years
Factors That Influence Early Blooming
- Full sunlight exposure
- Proper spacing (avoid overcrowding)
- Balanced nutrition (especially phosphorus)
- Minimal stress (waterlogging or drought delays flowering)
Agroforestry Insight
In your plantation model:
- Narra functions more as a long-term canopy and timber asset
- Flowering is not the primary economic driver, but it contributes to:
- Pollinator support
- Landscape/aesthetic value
- Seed production for propagation