Status:
valid
Authors:
Harms
Source:
tro
Year:
Citation Micro:
WFO Identifier:
wfo-0001060528
Common Names
- Myroxylon balsamiferum
- Balsam-bearing Myroxylon
- Balsamiferum Myroxylon
Description
Myroxylon balsamiferum (also called Balsam of Peru, among many other common names) is a small tree native to Central and South America. It has a rounded crown and its leaves are oblong-elliptic in shape. It grows in tropical and subtropical moist forests, as well as in open areas.
Uses & Benefits
Myroxylon balsamiferum is used as an ornamental plant for its attractive foliage and flowers, and as a medicinal plant for treating various ailments such as fever, skin diseases, and digestive disorders.
Flower, Seeds and Seedlings
The flower of Myroxylon balsamiferum is yellow and has a bell-shaped structure. The seed is round and black in colour. The seedlings are thin and long with a yellowish-green colour.
Where to Find Myroxylon balsamiferum
Myroxylon balsamiferum is native to Central and West Africa and can be found in dry, sandy soils.
Species in the Myroxylon genus
Species in the Fabaceae family