American muskwood
Guarea guidonia · Meliaceae
The gardener's calendar
In autumn, ease off feeding and take the chance to clean up around american muskwood and prepare for winter.
ID card
- Common name
- Guarea, West Indian Cedar
- Family
- Meliaceae
- Type
- Tropical tree
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Flowering
- Spring to summer
- Mature size
- 15 to 25 m in height
- Hardiness
- Tropical (minimum 18-25°C)
- Origin
- Caribbean and Central America
Care
Light exposure
Plant your Guarea in intense light, in full sun or partial shade in very hot regions. In temperate or sheltered climates, favor full sun to promote growth and fruiting. Avoid strong cold drafts that can damage the foliage.
Watering
Water regularly during active growth, keeping the soil moist but well-drained. In dry season or in containers, increase watering frequency. Once established in the ground, the tree will better tolerate dry periods thanks to its developed root system.
Soil
Guarea prefers rich, well-drained soil, slightly acidic to neutral. Enrich the substrate with compost or potting soil when planting. Effective drainage is essential to prevent root asphyxia and rot.
Fertilizing
Apply balanced fertilizer at the start of the growing season (spring-summer). For trees in containers, fertilizing every two months is beneficial. Reduce applications in autumn and winter to respect the dormant period.
Pruning and training
Pruning is not essential, but you can remove dead or poorly oriented branches in late winter. Gradually shape the crown on a young tree to achieve a harmonious form. Let the tree develop naturally in tropical environments.
Pests and diseases
Watch for sap-sucking insects (aphids, scale insects) especially in sheltered areas or greenhouses. Good drainage prevents fungal diseases. Provide sufficient air circulation and avoid excess stagnant moisture around the tree.
Did you know?
Guarea guidonia is widely used in Caribbean islands for its traditional medicinal properties: bark, leaves, and fruits have been used to prepare folk remedies. With precious wood in reddish hues, this tree features in the forestry history of the Americas as a mixed resource, both ornamental, medicinal, and valuable timber.
Where to buy it
Best planted in autumn so the roots settle in before summer, or in early spring once the frost has passed. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, October, November.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
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- BroomstickTrichilia hirta
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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.