Differences in growth and survival of two varieties of Ochroma pyramidale in rustic plantations in southern Mexico

Abstract

Ochroma pyramidale (Cav. Ex Lam.) is a rapidly growing pioneer tree native to the Americas. This species is important for rehabilitating degraded areas as well as commercially due to the wood`s low density and high resistance, making it useful for producing structural cores and lightweight plywood, as well as in the wind energy industry. For at least 50 years, two varieties of this species have been recognized by botanists as well as the Lacandon people of Chiapas, Mexico. This study provides comparative data regarding three years of growth of the white and red varieties of Ochroma pyramidale, indicating ideal soil and climatic conditions for commercial plantations. The white variety had a greater rate of growth and thrives with a high average annual precipitation (2330–3236 mm) and Luvisol or Leptosol with a neutral pH and a high P content. The red variety appears to be the most widely used in other regions of the world, while the white variety is rarely used commercially.

Keywords

• Balsa wood
• Chiapas
• Soil
• Climate
• Commercial plantation