Common Name:

General Information

Astronium balansae is a deciduous tree with a large, open crown; it can grow 5 - 25 metres tall. The bole is crooked and often branches from low down in southern Brazil, but in better soils it is straight and well-formed and up to 15 metres long. It can be 60 - 120cm in diameter[, ].
The tree produces an exceptionally heavy timber and is widely harvested from the wild. It is also a source of tannins. It merits being grown in parks and gardens, being exceptionally ornamental with its graceful foliage and also for its appearance when leafless[].

Known Hazards

None known

Botanical References

Range

S. America - northern Argentina, Paraguay, southern Brazil.

Habitat

In southern Brazil it is found growing in almost pure stands on level basaltic outcrops that are almost devoid of soil[]. Wet forests in Argentina and Paraguay, favouring well-drained, sandy soils[].

Properties

Other Uses Rating
Habit	Deciduous Tree
Height	15.00 m
Cultivation Status	Wild

Cultivation Details

Found mainly at lower elevations in the subtropical areas of northern Argentina, southern Brazil and Paraguay, though there is one report of it growing outside its native range in Lima, Peru, which is about 12° south, at an elevation of 240 metres[].
Grows best in a sunny position[]. Prefers a well-drained, sandy soil[]. Established plants are drought tolerant[].

Edible Uses

None known

Medicinal

None known

Other Uses

The bark and wood are a source of tannins[, ]. The wood contains up to 16% tannins[].

The heartwood is pale to dark grey when fresh, turning to dark brown on exposure with dark stripes; it is distinctly demarcated from the narrow band of yellowish sapwood[]. The texture is fine and even; grain is wavy, sometimes interlocked; lustre is low; taste and odour absent[]. The wood is very heavy; extremely hard and difficult to cut; and exceptionally resistant to insect attacks even when exposed to the elements. Working properties are variable; it finishes well; is difficult to nail and pre-boring is necessary for good results. It can be used for various outdoor purposes including railway sleepers, posts, bridge beams and door and window frames[, ].
The wood is a very good fuel and produces an excellent charcoal[].

Propagation

Seed - it needs to be sown in a nursery seedbed as soon as it is ripe. Germination takes 6 - 32 days and the young plants will be ready for planting out 9 - 10 months later[].

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