Picrasma excelsa

Picrasma excelsa, commonly known as the Bitterwood or Jamaican Quassia, is a species of flowering plant in the Simaroubaceae family. It is native to the Caribbean, Central America, and northern South America.

Description

Picrasma excelsa is a large, evergreen tree that can reach up to 30 meters in height. The leaves are pinnate, with 5-11 leaflets, each leaflet 5–10 cm long. The flowers are small, with five yellowish petals. The fruit is a small drupe 1–2 cm long.

Distribution and habitat

Picrasma excelsa is native to the Caribbean, Central America, and northern South America. It is commonly found in tropical rainforests, and it prefers well-drained soils.

Uses

The wood of Picrasma excelsa is used for construction and furniture making due to its hardness and durability. The bark and wood are also used in traditional medicine for their antiparasitic and antifungal properties. The plant is also used to make a bitter tonic, known as Quassia, which is used to treat digestive disorders and fever.

Cultivation

Picrasma excelsa is not commonly cultivated, but it can be grown from seeds. It prefers a sunny position and well-drained soil. It is a slow-growing tree, but it is resistant to pests and diseases.

Conservation

Picrasma excelsa is not currently considered to be at risk of extinction, but its habitat is being reduced due to deforestation and land conversion for agriculture.