Guianan Maquira
maquira guianensis
Also known as: ["Guianan Maquira","Maquira tree"]
Overview
A tropical tree species native to the Guiana Shield region, known for its hardwood and ecological significance.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","rare/collector’s item"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Malvales |
| Family: | Malvaceae |
| Genus: | Maquira |
| Botanical Name: | Maquira guianensis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: tropical garden or greenhouse with sheltered position
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"18–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"11–12"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter and sand or perlite for aeration.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very high
- Toughness Level: very high
- Pruning Frequency: Light pruning can be done every 2–3 months; major pruning annually or biannually.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate pruning to shape the plant and remove up to one-third of growth if needed.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily. Can tolerate partial shade but may require acclimation to direct sunlight.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Gradually acclimate to direct sun to prevent scorching. Indoors, place near east or west-facing windows. Outdoors, provide dappled shade during peak afternoon sun.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
expert onlymoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun with protection from intense afternoon sun
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid direct midday sun
Watering
every 7–10 days during growing season, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, allow soil to dry partially between waterings, and avoid waterlogging.
Soil
well-draining, fertile loam with organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; top-dress with compost annually
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures between 65–85°F (18–29°C). Tolerates mild fluctuations but avoids prolonged exposure to extreme cold or heat.
Avoid placing near drafty windows; use a humidifier in dry, warm conditions; monitor temperature extremes
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth with balanced liquid fertilizer
Always water before fertilizing to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; match fertilizer to plant's growth stage
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings are the most reliable method for Maquira guianensis.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Apply rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Keep warm and moist.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (75–85°F), and indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and sand or cactus mix.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots typically develop in 4–8 weeks; new growth may take 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, humidity dome, misting spray bottle
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Use clean cuts just above a leaf node or branch junction. Remove crossing or crowded branches to improve air circulation.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased parts.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune during dormancy or active growth; remove dead/diseased parts; shape evenly
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot. Necessary to refresh soil and provide space for growth.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot; trim roots if needed; use fresh soil; water lightly
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water thoroughly; ensure drainage; adjust seasonally
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even moisture distribution. Water early in the morning or late in the evening to minimize evaporation. Ensure excess water drains away to prevent root rot.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once every 7–10 days during active growth, reducing frequency to every 14–21 days in winter or dormant periods. Adjust based on soil dryness and environmental conditions.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; use a layer of gravel at the bottom of the pot for extra drainage.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, wilting, stunted growth, or bud drop indicate temperature stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause root damage or leaf drop.
Solution: Move to a warmer location, insulate pots, and avoid cold drafts. Protect from frost if grown outdoors in cooler climates.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to leaf scorch, dehydration, and wilting.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat, increase humidity, and water more frequently to compensate for evaporation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; rinse pot periodically
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). Reduce or stop fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicMaquira guianensis is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no reported cases of adverse effects in felines after exposure to this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Dogs
Non-toxicMaquira guianensis is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no reported cases of adverse effects in canines after exposure to this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Humans
Non-toxicMaquira guianensis is not known to exhibit toxic properties to humans under normal circumstances. The plant has not been documented to cause adverse effects through ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Maquira guianensis suitable for indoor cultivation?
A: No, it is a large tropical tree requiring outdoor conditions.
Q: Does this plant have any medicinal uses?
A: Limited information is available, but it is not commonly used in traditional medicine.
Q: How fast does Maquira guianensis grow?
A: It is a slow-growing tree species, typical of tropical hardwoods.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Malvaceae |
| Care: | expert only |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun with |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during growi |
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