Balsa
ochroma pyramidale
Also known as: ["Balsa wood tree","Balsa tree","Cotton tree"]
Overview
A fast-growing deciduous tree native to tropical regions of the Americas, known for its extremely lightweight wood and large, soft leaves.
Benefits & Perks
["fast growing","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","disease resistant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Malvales |
| Family: | Malvaceae |
| Genus: | Ochroma |
| Botanical Name: | Ochroma pyramidale |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in tropical or subtropical regions, protected from strong winds
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"18–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"10–12"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand for aeration.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 2–3 months or after rapid growth spurts.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerates partial shade but may stretch in low light.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light; protect from direct sun to prevent scorching; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter direct sun; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom; allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-draining, fertile soil with organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5–7.0).
Use a mix with good drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; topdress with compost occasionally.
Temperature
Thrives in 65–85°F (18–29°C); prefers warm, stable conditions; sensitive to cold drafts.
Avoid sudden temperature shifts; protect from drafts; maintain consistent warmth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid overfertilizing.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings in water or soil.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take cutting, apply hormone (optional), place in medium, maintain humidity, wait for roots.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when growth is active.
Environment
Warm, humid, and bright indirect light; protect from direct sun.
Medium
Well-draining mix like peat and perlite or water for initial rooting.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, container, rooting medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep consistently moist; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips, cut just above a leaf node or branch junction.
Pruning Plan
Shape plant, remove dead/damaged growth, encourage bushier form; focus on maintaining health and aesthetics.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruners or scissors.
Checklist
Sanitize tools, prune during active growth, remove dead/diseased parts, shape evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the main growing season begins.
Pot Size
Move to a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter.
Method
Remove gently, trim roots if crowded, use fresh well-draining soil, ensure proper drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2 years or when roots fill the pot; essential for continued growth due to rapid growth rate.
Checklist
Check root bound status, prepare new pot, use fresh soil, water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water deeply, ensure drainage, adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even saturation; allow excess water to drain freely; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate organic matter for fertility; ensure proper aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or stunted growth in cold; scorching or leaf burn in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Growth slows or halts; leaves may turn yellow or drop; risk of root damage below 50°F (10°C).
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate roots with mulch; avoid cold drafts.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, curl, or scorch; soil dries out faster; increased pest susceptibility.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase, dilute correctly, apply to moist soil, stop in dormant season.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); cease in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicOchroma pyramidale is not considered toxic to cats. The plant material does not produce any known toxic compounds that would cause adverse effects in felines upon ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicOchroma pyramidale is not considered toxic to dogs. The plant material does not contain any known substances that would cause toxicity in canines upon ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicOchroma pyramidale, commonly known as balsa wood, is not considered toxic to humans. The plant material is generally safe for handling and does not produce any known toxic compounds that would cause adverse effects upon ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is balsa wood lightweight?
A: Yes, balsa wood is one of the lightest commercial woods available, with a density of about 0.16–0.29 g/cm³.
Q: Does the balsa tree produce flowers?
A: Yes, the balsa tree produces large, white, fragrant flowers that are pollinated by moths.
Q: Is the balsa tree suitable for indoor cultivation?
A: No, the balsa tree is a large, fast-growing tree and is not suitable for indoor cultivation.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Malvaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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