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Description
Ceiba Insignis, also known as the sacred tree of the Mayans, is a large deciduous tree that belongs to the family of Malvaceae. It is native to tropical regions of Central and South America, including Mexico, Belize, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua. The tree can grow up to 70 meters tall and 3 meters in diameter, with a large buttress root system that provides stability.This majestic tree has played an important role in Mayan mythology and culture, representing the connection between the underworld, the earth, and the heavens. Its strong and durable wood was used to build temples, canoes, and sacred objects. The tree is also known for its medicinal properties, as its bark and roots have been used to treat various ailments.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malvales |
| Family | Malvaceae |
| Genus | Ceiba |
Appearance
The Ceiba Insignis tree has a tall, straight trunk with a thin, smooth bark that has a greenish-gray color. The leaves are large, green, and have a palmate shape with five to seven leaflets. The flowers are white and have a bell shape, measuring up to 10 cm in diameter. The tree produces a large, woody fruit that contains many seeds, which can be dispersed by wind.
Care Guide
Ceiba Insignis trees require a warm and humid environment with well-draining soil. They should be watered regularly, especially during the growing season, and fertilized with a balanced fertilizer. The tree prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade. It is hardy to USDA zones 10-12.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Ceiba Insignis tree is susceptible to fungal diseases such as root rot and leaf spot. It can also be affected by pests such as scale insects and spider mites. Regular inspection and treatment with appropriate fungicides and insecticides can help prevent these problems.
Habitat
The Ceiba Insignis tree is native to tropical regions of Central and South America, where it grows in rainforests and other moist areas. It can also be found in cultivated areas, such as parks and gardens.
Question and Answer
Q: What is the significance of the Ceiba Insignis tree in Mayan mythology?
A: The Ceiba Insignis tree represents the connection between the underworld, the earth, and the heavens in Mayan mythology.
Q: What is the typical size of a Ceiba Insignis tree?
A: The Ceiba Insignis tree can grow up to 70 meters tall and 3 meters in diameter.
Q: What is the preferred habitat of the Ceiba Insignis tree?
A: The Ceiba Insignis tree prefers a warm and humid environment with well-draining soil.
Q: What are the common pests and diseases that affect the Ceiba Insignis tree?
A: The Ceiba Insignis tree can be affected by fungal diseases such as root rot and leaf spot, as well as pests such as scale insects and spider mites.
Related Plants
- Ceiba aesculifolia
- Ceiba pentandra
- Ceiba speciosa
- Ceiba trichistandra
References
- “Ceiba insignis.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=e582
- “Ceiba insignis.” Plants of the World Online. http://www.plantsoftheworldonline.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:822978-1
- “The Sacred Ceiba Tree of the Mayas.” Mexicolore. https://www.mexicolore.co.uk/maya/1/the-sacred-ceiba-tree-of-the-mayas
