Guarea
guarea gomma
Also known as: ["Guarea tree","Gum tree"]
Overview
A tropical tree species native to Central and South America, known for its timber and potential medicinal uses.
Benefits & Perks
["timber","medicinal use","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Sapindales |
| Family: | Meliaceae |
| Genus: | Guarea |
| Botanical Name: | Guarea gomma |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in tropical or subtropical regions
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days in dry environments
- 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: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- 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; adjust to partial shade in intense summer sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct light to prevent scorching; place in filtered light indoors or dappled shade outdoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full 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 between waterings, and avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-draining, fertile loam
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid compacted soil; top-dress with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers 65–85°F (18–29°C); tolerates mild fluctuations but avoid prolonged exposure to extremes.
Avoid placing near drafty windows; use a humidifier in dry environments; monitor temperature changes.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid overfertilizing.
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, and wait for roots.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), warm temperatures (70–75°F), and indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat and perlite or cactus soil.
Hormone
Recommended to promote 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 bags or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning of branches to maintain shape and improve air circulation.
Pruning Plan
Shape the plant, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased parts.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilized scissors, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools, prune during dormancy, remove dead/diseased parts, shape evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, when the plant is entering active growth.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if necessary, place in a new pot with fresh soil, water lightly, and avoid direct sun for a few days.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots outgrow the pot to refresh soil and provide space.
Checklist
Check root bound status, prepare new pot with drainage, trim roots if needed, use fresh soil, water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water thoroughly, ensure drainage, adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensure water penetrates deeply to reach the root ball, allow excess water to drain, and water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply 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 to improve drainage; incorporate organic matter like compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf drop, yellowing, or wilting; slow growth or bud drop in extreme conditions.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf drop, and may lead to root damage in temperatures below 50°F (10°C).
Solution: Move to a warmer location, insulate pots, and avoid cold drafts or sudden temperature drops.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or stunted growth in temperatures above 90°F (32°C) without adequate humidity.
Solution: Provide shade, increase humidity, and water more frequently to combat heat stress.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase, 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); cease in fall–winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are particularly sensitive to the toxins in Guarea gomma, with ingestion of seeds or bark potentially leading to severe gastrointestinal and neurological symptoms. The plant's compounds can be rapidly absorbed, causing systemic effects.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Guarea gomma seeds and bark can lead to more severe toxic effects due to their lower body weight and sensitivity to certain plant compounds. The toxins can cause significant gastrointestinal upset and, in rare cases, neurological symptoms.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicGuarea gomma contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and skin irritation upon contact. The seeds and bark are the primary toxic parts, containing alkaloids and other secondary metabolites that may induce adverse reactions in humans.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Guarea gomma toxic to pets?
A: There is insufficient data on its toxicity to pets.
Q: What are the uses of Guarea gomma?
A: It is primarily used for timber and may have medicinal properties.
Q: How difficult is it to care for Guarea gomma?
A: It requires moderate care and maintenance, suitable for enthusiasts and landscapers.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Meliaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during growi |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
