Bitterwood
quassia amara
Also known as: ["Amargo","Cascarilla","Bitter Ash"]
Overview
A tropical tree known for its extremely bitter wood, traditionally used in herbal medicine and as an insecticide.
Benefits & Perks
["medicinal use","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Sapindales |
| Family: | Simaroubaceae |
| Genus: | Quassia |
| Botanical Name: | Quassia amara |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: shaded garden bed or container in a humid, tropical setting
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"18–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days in dry environments
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining mix of cactus soil, perlite, and a small amount of organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Light pruning can be done anytime; major pruning in late winter/early spring before new growth.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if needed.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct light; protect from intense sun to prevent scorching; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full shade
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; move outdoors in spring/summer for brighter light.
Watering
every 7–10 days during growing season, reduce in winter
Allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering; ensure proper drainage.
Soil
well-draining, slightly acidic soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5–7.0).
Use pots with drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; top-dress with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers 65–85°F (18–29°C); tolerates mild fluctuations but avoid drafts or extreme temperatures.
Avoid placing near heating/cooling vents; maintain consistent room temperature; protect from sudden temperature drops.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth
Flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; reduce feeding in dormant periods; apply fertilizer to moist soil.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings in spring/summer.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Apply rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), warm temperatures (75–85°F), and indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and sand.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended for faster root development.
Timeline
Roots develop in 4–8 weeks; new growth appears in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic wrap or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Use clean cuts just above a leaf node or branch junction; avoid cutting into old wood.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead/damaged stems.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged stems; shape the plant; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; use fresh, well-draining soil.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot; trim roots; add fresh soil; water lightly.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water deeply at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; avoid wetting foliage; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, leaf drop, or stunted growth due to cold stress; wilting or scorching from excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf discoloration, and may lead to root rot if soil remains cold and wet.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; protect from drafts; ensure soil is not waterlogged.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, scorch, or drop; growth may slow due to excessive heat and dryness.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid overwatering.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with leaves.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are particularly sensitive to the quassinoids found in Quassia amara. Ingestion can cause severe gastrointestinal irritation and systemic toxicity, potentially leading to more pronounced symptoms compared to other species.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested
Dogs
ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Quassia amara can lead to significant gastrointestinal upset and potential systemic toxicity due to the presence of quassinoids. These compounds can irritate the digestive tract and may cause more severe reactions in smaller or more sensitive breeds.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested
Humans
Slightly ToxicQuassia amara contains quassinoids, which are bitter compounds that can cause gastrointestinal distress and other mild systemic effects when consumed in significant amounts. The plant has been traditionally used for its insecticidal and medicinal properties, but excessive ingestion can lead to adverse effects.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested in large quantities
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Quassia amara safe for human consumption?
A: It is mildly toxic and should be used cautiously, primarily in herbal remedies under professional guidance.
Q: How is Quassia amara used traditionally?
A: It has been used as a bitter tonic, insecticide, and in folk medicine to treat various ailments.
Q: Does Quassia amara require special care?
A: It thrives in tropical climates and requires moderate care, including well-drained soil and partial shade.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Simaroubaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during growi |
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