It grows in Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos and Burma in deciduous forests.

The highly figured lumber is often sold as Afzelia Xylay.

The wood is used for ornamental woodturning, pens, knife handles, carvings, and musical instruments.

In Cambodia, A. xylocarpa (locally known as Beng) are planted as shading trees due to its wide-ranging branches.

At roadsides and waterways the tree provides a good windbarrier and protection from water-driven soil erosion.