Guazuma

Description

Guazuma, also known as West Indian Elm, is a flowering plant native to Central and South America. It is a fast-growing tree that can reach up to 30 meters in height. Guazuma has been used for centuries in traditional medicine for its various healing properties.

Taxonomic Information

Domain	Eukaryota
Kingdom	Plantae
Phylum	Spermatophyta
Class	Magnoliopsida
Order	Malvales
Family	Malvaceae
Genus	Guazuma

Appearance

The leaves of Guazuma are simple and alternate, with a length of 10 to 20 cm. The flowers are small and yellowish-white, and bloom in clusters. The fruit is a capsule that contains several seeds. The bark of Guazuma is grayish-brown and smooth.

Care Guide

Guazuma requires moderate watering, with well-draining soil. Fertilization is recommended during the growing season. It prefers full sunlight but can tolerate partial shade. Guazuma is hardy in zones 10-12.

Common Pests & Diseases

Guazuma is susceptible to scale insects and spider mites. Pests can be controlled through regular pruning and the use of insecticidal soap. Diseases that affect Guazuma include root rot and leaf spot. Proper watering and soil drainage can prevent these diseases.

Habitat

Guazuma is native to the tropical regions of Central and South America. It can be found in areas that receive plenty of rainfall, such as rainforests and wetlands. Guazuma can also thrive in urban environments with proper care.

Question and Answer

Q: Is Guazuma a good shade tree?
A: Yes, Guazuma is an excellent shade tree, and its fast growth rate makes it a popular choice for landscaping.

Q: Can Guazuma be grown indoors?
A: While Guazuma prefers full sunlight, it can be grown indoors if given ample light and space.

Q: What are the medicinal properties of Guazuma?
A: Guazuma has been used in traditional medicine for its anti-inflammatory, anti-diabetic, and anti-cancer properties.

Q: How often should Guazuma be fertilized?
A: Guazuma should be fertilized once every month during the growing season.

Related Plants

• Abroma
• Bombax
• Hibiscus
• Kola
• Sterculia

References

• “Guazuma ulmifolia.” Plants of the World Online, Kew Science. Accessed 12 October 2021. https://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:822673-1.
• Santos, Alline Marques dos, et al. “Phytochemical and pharmacological properties of Guazuma ulmifolia Lam.” Revista Brasileira de Farmacognosia, vol. 24, no. 6, 2014, pp. 691-701. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.bjp.2014.10.007.
• “West Indian Elm (Guazuma ulmifolia).” Florida Native Plant Society, 2021. https://fnps.org/plants/plant/guazuma-ulmifolia/.