In a distrubed area there are some tree species that will do better at the start, in the open clearing, only to be overtaken later by other species. Besides the Macaranga and Mallotus, there are also the ever-present bamboos and this one - Trema spp.The one featured above is probably the Trema orientalis which will grow to a sizeable tree of about 60 feet in height. It has flower clusters on the leaf-axils with berries that are slightly flattened, green then red to black. Birds often feed on these berries and help in the tree's distribution.
This tree will later be overtaken by the more matured "longer-lasting" forest tress like the dipterocarps which will grow beneath its shade at first.
This tree will not last long and it would be a good idea to keep an eye on it as it grows older lest one falls onto your roof!...
[Thanks Balu for your help on this one]
