Bastard cedar tree - Guazuma ulmifolia

Description and Uses

Guazuma ulmifolia (Bastard cedar tree) is a tropical tree from Colombia & Venezuela. It is mainly grown for its fuel crops (long shelflife), The crop is harvested by total removing. Regarding firewood production the tree`s growing speed is fast, its energetic value is 4700 ckal/kg and the wood`s drying speed is ; for firewood production it is not ideal. After 30 years the tree can be totally removed as it reached its commercial and ecological goal. Guazuma ulmifolia has a lifespan of 120 years.

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Environmental limitations

The tree is 30 meters tall. It is fast growing and tolerates not less light than full sun. Guazuma ulmifolia has a shallow root-system and forms symbiotic relations (endo-mycorrhiza). It is not able to fix nitrogen. The tree`s flower-morphology is bi-sexual and is pollinated by wind.

Guazuma ulmifolia thrives in an altitude of 400 to 1200 meters above sea-level (tropical). The minimum temperature is 5°C and optimally between 20 - 28°C. The optimal rainfall is 1350 mm/year. Without irrigation the annual rainfall should be between 600 - 1500 mm (L/m²). The optimal soil-pH is between 5.0 - 7.0 in a soil texture of clay. To salt it is intolerant to wind and to fire .

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Pests and Diseases

and diseases.

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Seed Propagation

Seeds are orthodox and can be stored for 1 months. Unfortunately propagation instruction is missing.

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