Abstract

This study was conducted in the northern mountainous region of Vietnam. Research occurred at two main sites: the Hoa Binh province and the Phu Tho province. The objective of this study was to compare growth rate and the physiological characteristics of the indigenous tree species; with the ultimate goal of selecting a suitable species for the restoration of the degraded forest area. Except for an Acacia hybrid, this study indicated that Pelthophorum tonlinensis, Lithocarpus ducampii and Cinamomum obtusifolium, in the Hoa Binh Province, and Pygeum arboretum, Cinamomum parthenoxylon andEndospermum sinensis, in the Phu Tho Province, showed higher height growth. Quercus poilanei, E. sinensis, Lithocarpus ducampii, and P. tonlinensisi exhibited good physiological performances, and had potential for use in the restoration of degraded forest. The results of this study will improve the success of restoration programs, by selecting suitable species for planting on the degraded lands; according to their specific reforestation objectives.

Key words: Vietnam, degraded forest, growth, indigenous species, photosynthesis, water use efficiency.