This volume deals with rattans currently used in South-East Asia or with potential. Rattans are the source of cane for the cane-furniture industry, while at the same time being used for a wealth of minor purposes locally. Most cane entering world trade is collected from the wild, and throughout much of South-East Asia rattan represents the most important forest product after timber. At the local level, rattan may be of great social significance in providing a not always sustainable source of income for the poorer societies living near the forest. Recently, there has been great interest in the possibility of cultivating rattan. About 25 species are highlighted and illustrated, and brief characteristics of another 100 minor species are included. A glossary explains the terms used.