Balsa Wood (Ochroma pyramidale)

Family: Malvaceae | Edibility: Edible (1/5)

Ochroma pyramidale is an evergreen Tree growing to 30 m (98ft) by 30 m (98ft) at a fast rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 10 and is frost tender. The flowers are pollinated by Bats, Birds. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils, prefers well-drained soil and can grow in heavy clay soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils and can grow in saline soils.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Leaves

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Fall, Late Summer, Spring

Flavor & Culinary Uses

None known. — Harvested fresh in season according to PFAF botanical monograph.

Habitat & North American Range

Moist, lowland, limestone forest. Common along the margins of lakes or in disturbed areas, rare in the older forest where it is a large tree. It is found mainly on fertile, bottom-land soils along the sides of streams. (Zone 10)