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Description
Simarouba Amara, also known as Paradise Tree, is a fast-growing evergreen tree that belongs to the family Simaroubaceae. It is native to Central and South America, but is now widely cultivated in many tropical regions around the world. The tree can grow up to 30 meters tall, with a trunk diameter of up to 80 centimeters. It has a pyramidal shape, with a dense crown of glossy green leaves that are pinnately compound and can grow up to 50 centimeters long.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Sapindales |
| Family | Simaroubaceae |
| Genus | Simarouba |
Appearance
Simarouba Amara has a smooth, gray bark that can become fissured with age. Its flowers are small and greenish-yellow, and bloom in clusters. The fruit is a drupe that is oval-shaped and about 2.5 centimeters long. When ripe, it turns from green to yellow or orange, and contains a single seed. The seed is surrounded by a thin, fleshy layer that is sweet and edible.
Care Guide
Simarouba Amara is a relatively low-maintenance tree that is easy to grow. It prefers well-draining soil and full sunlight, but can tolerate partial shade. It is also drought-tolerant once established, but should be watered regularly during the first few years of growth. Fertilize the tree once a year in the spring with a slow-release fertilizer. Simarouba Amara is hardy in USDA zones 10-12.
Common Pests & Diseases
Simarouba Amara is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can occasionally be affected by root rot, leaf spot, or scale insects. To prevent these issues, make sure the tree is planted in well-draining soil and avoid over-watering. If pests or diseases do occur, treat with an appropriate pesticide or fungicide.
Habitat
Simarouba Amara is native to Central and South America, where it grows in a variety of habitats including rainforests, savannas, and along riverbanks. It is now widely cultivated in many tropical regions around the world, including India, Indonesia, and the Caribbean.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Simarouba Amara a good shade tree?
A: Yes, Simarouba Amara can provide excellent shade due to its dense crown of leaves.
Q: Can Simarouba Amara be grown in containers?
A: While Simarouba Amara can be grown in containers, it may not reach its full potential in terms of size and growth rate.
Q: Does Simarouba Amara produce fruit every year?
A: Yes, Simarouba Amara can produce fruit year-round, although it typically produces more fruit during the rainy season.
Q: How tall can Simarouba Amara grow?
A: Simarouba Amara can grow up to 30 meters tall in its natural habitat, although it may not reach this height in cultivation.
Related Plants
- Simarouba Glauca
- Simarouba Versicolor
- Simarouba Tropica
References
- “Simarouba amara.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 2 June 2021. <http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=a791>.
- “Simarouba amara.” Purdue University Horticulture and Landscape Architecture. Accessed 2 June 2021. <https://www.hort.purdue.edu/newcrop/CropFactSheets/simarouba.html>.
- “Simarouba amara.” Plant Village. Accessed 2 June 2021. <https://www.plantvillage.org/en/topics/simarouba-amara>.
