Cedro, Cigar Box Tree

Cedrela fissilis

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Basic Information

Family: Meliaceae

Genus: cedrela

Plant ID (slug): cedrela-fissilis

Numeric ID: 24221

USDA Hardiness: 10-12

Ratings

Physical Characteristics

Cedrela fissilis is a deciduous Tree growing to 25 m (82ft) by 20 m (65ft) at a fast rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 10 and is frost tender. It is noted for attracting wildlife. 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 can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

Western S. America - Argentina, Brazil, Bolivia, north through Central America to Costa Rica.

Habitats

Edible Uses

None known

Medicinal Uses

Astringent Emetic Skin The bark is astringent and emetic[ 46 , 739 ]. It has been recommended for the treatment of leucorrhoea, and is used as a dressing on ulcers[ 46 , 739 ]. A decoction of the wood is used as a wash for cleaning sores, and in a vapour bath to treat orchitis[ 739 ]. The fruits and the seed contain the limonoid triterpene fissinolide[ 739 ].

Known Hazards

None known

Detailed Information

Additional Information

Title: Cedrela fissilis Cedro, Cigar Box Tree