Guatambu

Aspidosperma album

Physical Characteristics

Aspidosperma album is an evergreen Tree growing to 25 m (82ft) by 18 m (59ft) at a medium rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 10. The flowers are pollinated by Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers moist soil and can tolerate drought. The plant is not wind tolerant.

Distribution

S. America - Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Venezuela, the Guyanas.

Habitats

Edible Uses

None Known.

Medicinal Uses

Antidiarrhoeal Antifungal Astringent Febrifuge Febrifuge Malaria Skin The bark is antifungal, astringent, febrifuge[348. A decoction is used in the treatment of diarrhoea, fevers and malaria[ 348 ]. Juice from the macerated inner bark is applied to affected area as a treatment for dermatosis[ 348 ].

Known Hazards

The freshly cut wood and sap of Aspidosperma species causes irritation of the eyes, nose, and throat, with general malaise[ 407 ]. The sawdust, on contact with abraded skin, produces local burning and a vesicular eruption with general symptoms of muscular weakness and cramps, sweating, dryness of the mouth, and faintness[ 407 ]. Once the wood is thoroughly dry it loses its toxicity unless polishes or dyes in organic solvents are used on it[ 407 ]