Amyris balsamifera — an easy houseplant, prefers full sun light
SPECIMEN · FROM THE LIBRARY
Amyris balsamifera

Amyris Balsamifera

Updated · 2 observations
ON THIS PLANT
A note from PlantMom

Balsam torchwood is resistant to disease and is usually not prone to illnesses. With regard to care, this plant is fairly low-maintenance. When grown outdoors it needs only light watering, and larger plants typically do not require pruning. Smaller plants, however, should be trimmed after they have finished blooming. Balsam torchwoodt is appropriate for anyone who has an outdoor area, such as a garden or deck, and it does not demand extensive care experience.

— PlantMom
CARE GUIDE

How to keep Amyris Balsamifera.

Light

Balsam torchwood comes from open habitats, such as sunlit meadows and forest margins, which offer abundant light. It does best in Full Sun but will also tolerate Partial Sun, showing good adaptability to a range of sunlight conditions.

Temperature

Balsam torchwood comes from tropical areas where the climate is generally warm and humid. Consequently, it is well suited to high heat and humidity. It does not tolerate sudden temperature changes and prefers a stable thermal environment, so it is important to avoid temperature fluctuations indoors. It usually cannot withstand cold and needs higher temperatures to grow. If the surrounding temperature falls too low, the plant may stop growing or even die.

Fertilizer

Fertilizing is essential for the care of Balsam torchwood. Regular applications during the growing season maintain the energy for its showy leaves and support overall growth. Failing to fertilize can lead to unhealthy foliage, reduced ornamental appeal, and stunted or weak growth that is prone to breakage.

Pruning

Balsam torchwood is known for its aromatic qualities and resilience. To encourage healthy growth and maintain its shape, prune the plant in early spring. Be sure to remove any dead branches and thin out dense areas to improve air circulation, which helps prevent diseases and enhances the plant's structure. These steps will improve the appearance and productivity of balsam torchwood, ensuring it thrives in various conditions.

CHARACTERISTICS

Botanical profile.

Plant Type
Tree
Life Cycle
Perennial
Genus
Amyris
Family
Rutaceae
Hardiness Zone
10-12
Mature Height
10.06 m to 14.94 m
Mature Spread
4.88 m to 7.92 m
Leaf Color
Dark Green
Leaf Type
Evergreen
Flower Color
White
Flower Size
0.25 cm to 0.51 cm
Bloom Time
Late spring, Summer
Planting Time
Spring, Summer, Autumn
Harvest Time
Late summer, Fall
Native Area
Colombia, Cuba, Honduras, Mexico, Guatemala, Venezuela, Nicaragua, Ecuador, Costa Rica, Jamaica
ALSO KNOWN AS

Other names.

en Balsam amyris en Balsam torchwood en Candlewood en Poison-ash en West Indian rosewood en West Indian-sandalwood en Rhodes wood
PLATES
Amyris balsamifera flower
PLATE 01 · flower
Amyris balsamifera fruit
PLATE 02 · fruit
Amyris balsamifera fruit
PLATE 03 · fruit
ALSO IN THE LIBRARY

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