Contents
Description
Guazuma Ulmifolia, commonly known as West Indian elm or bay cedar, is a medium-sized tree that belongs to the Sterculiaceae family. It is native to the tropical regions of the Americas and can grow up to 15 meters tall. The tree has a straight trunk, and its bark is gray-brown and slightly rough. The leaves are simple, alternate, and have serrated margins. The tree produces small, yellowish flowers that bloom in clusters from January to April. Guazuma Ulmifolia is used for various medicinal purposes, including treating diarrhea, fever, and respiratory infections.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliophyta |
| Order | Malvales |
| Family | Sterculiaceae |
| Genus | Guazuma |
Appearance
Guazuma Ulmifolia has a dense, rounded crown that spreads up to 10 meters in diameter. The tree has a smooth, gray-brown bark that is slightly fissured. Its leaves are simple, alternate, and have a dark green color with a smooth texture. The leaves are ovate to elliptic in shape and can grow up to 15 cm long and 8 cm wide. The flowers of Guazuma Ulmifolia are small, yellowish, and grow in clusters. The tree produces a fruit that is a woody capsule that contains many seeds.
Care Guide
Guazuma Ulmifolia requires moderate watering and can tolerate periodic droughts. It prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The tree should be fertilized with a balanced fertilizer every six months. Guazuma Ulmifolia prefers full sunlight but can tolerate partial shade. The tree is hardy in USDA zones 10-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Guazuma Ulmifolia is susceptible to various pests and diseases, including leaf spot, root rot, and canker. The tree can also be affected by scale insects and spider mites. Regular inspection and treatment with appropriate pesticides can help prevent these problems.
Habitat
Guazuma Ulmifolia is native to the tropical regions of the Americas, including Central America, South America, and the Caribbean. The tree prefers warm, humid climates and can grow in various soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils. It is commonly found in forests, savannas, and disturbed areas.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Guazuma Ulmifolia a fast-growing tree?
A: Yes, Guazuma Ulmifolia is a fast-growing tree that can grow up to 1-2 meters per year under ideal conditions.
Q: Can Guazuma Ulmifolia tolerate salt spray?
A: No, Guazuma Ulmifolia is not tolerant of salt spray and should not be planted in coastal areas.
Q: Is Guazuma Ulmifolia a good shade tree?
A: Yes, Guazuma Ulmifolia can provide excellent shade due to its dense, rounded crown.
Q: Can Guazuma Ulmifolia be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Guazuma Ulmifolia can be grown in containers but will require frequent watering and fertilization.
Related Plants
- Guazuma Crinita
- Guazuma Toxopei
- Guazuma Longifolia
- Guazuma Ulmifolia var. Eggersii
References
- Bosques Tropicales Secos de Mesoamérica. (n.d.). Guazuma Ulmifolia. Retrieved from http://www.btsmexico.com/especie/guazuma-ulmifolia
- Guazuma Ulmifolia. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.cabi.org/isc/datasheet/26505
- Guazuma Ulmifolia. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/76906/
- USDA. (n.d.). Plants Profile for Guazuma Ulmifolia. Retrieved from https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=GUUL2
