Contents
Description
Ochroma Pyramidale, commonly known as the balsa tree or corkwood tree, is a fast-growing tree native to South and Central America. It belongs to the family Malvaceae and is known for its lightweight wood, which makes it useful for a variety of applications. The tree can grow up to 30 meters tall and has a trunk diameter of up to 1 meter.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malvales |
| Family | Malvaceae |
| Genus | Ochroma |
Appearance
The balsa tree has a straight trunk with smooth, gray bark. Its leaves are large and heart-shaped, growing up to 30 cm long and 20 cm wide. The tree produces small, white or pink flowers that bloom in clusters. Its fruit is a capsule containing many seeds.
Care Guide
The balsa tree prefers moist, well-drained soil and full sun exposure. It can tolerate a range of soil types, but does best in loamy or sandy soils. The tree requires regular watering, especially during its growing season, and benefits from fertilization with nitrogen-rich fertilizer. It is hardy in USDA zones 10-12.
Common Pests & Diseases
The balsa tree is susceptible to attack from a variety of pests and diseases. Common pests include mealybugs, scale insects, and spider mites. These can be controlled with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil. Diseases that affect the balsa tree include root rot, canker, and powdery mildew. These can be prevented by ensuring the tree is growing in well-drained soil and providing proper air circulation around the tree.
Habitat
The balsa tree is native to South and Central America and can be found growing in tropical and subtropical regions. It is commonly found in areas with high rainfall and prefers lowland areas.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the balsa tree a good choice for a fast-growing shade tree?
A: Yes, the balsa tree is a fast-growing tree that can provide shade in a relatively short amount of time.
Q: Can the wood of the balsa tree be used for woodworking?
A: Yes, balsa wood is lightweight and easy to work with, making it a popular choice for model making and other woodworking projects.
Q: Is the balsa tree an invasive species?
A: No, the balsa tree is not considered an invasive species in any region where it is cultivated.
Q: Can the balsa tree be grown indoors?
A: It is possible to grow balsa trees indoors in containers, but they require bright light and regular watering.
Related Plants
- Cottonwood (Populus deltoides)
- Willow (Salix spp.)
- Aspen (Populus tremuloides)
- Birch (Betula spp.)
References
- Encyclopedia Britannica. (2021). Balsa. In Encyclopedia Britannica online. Retrieved July 19, 2021, from https://www.britannica.com/plant/balsa
- Morton, J. F. (1987). Balsa. In Fruits of warm climates (pp. 432-434). Julia F. Morton.
- USDA. (n.d.). Ochroma pyramidale. In USDA Plants Database. Retrieved July 19, 2021, from https://plants.usda.gov/home/plantProfile?symbol=OCPR
