Ochroma

Family: Bombacaceae
Common Name: Balsa

Native to tropical America, this evergreen tree has a smooth trunk, broad, green leaves, some measuring 30 cm (12 in) across, and large, white, showy flowers. In its native habitat, the flowers are pollinated by bats. Not grown by private gardeners. May be found in some botanic gardens.

Species

O. pyramidale (Synonym: O. lagopus), balsa, is the only species, sometimes reaching a height of 30 m (100 ft). Its timber is the lightweight balsa wood, with a wide range of commercial applications.

Cultivation

Ochrania is very fast growing in warm regions. Propagate from seed.

Climate

Zone 10.