Cecropia peltata aka Trumpet Tree

Taxonomy

Cecropia peltata, commonly referred to as the trumpet tree, trumpet-bush, bacano, or snakewood, is a fast-growing, evergreen South American tree with an open and thin crown reaching up to 20 m tall with a trunk diameter of 10 – 30 cm. Its hollow branches and leaf petioles are cut and used as blow tubes or trumpets, while the inner bark of young branches is used for socks, ropes, and cordage and its leaves as a type of sandpaper. It’s sweet and jelly-like fruit can be eaten raw, and latex from the trunk is used to make a crude type of rubber. Medicinally, it is used against liver ailments, dropsy, hypertension, kidney infections, heart conditions, Bright's disease, back pain, ulcers, wounds, cuts, and asthma among others. As a houseplant , it needs regular watering, abundant sunlight , and should be less than 3 feet from a window. It is listed as one of the world's 100 worst invasive alien species.

Common names

Trumpet Tree, Pop A Gun, Snakewood

How to care for Trumpet Tree

Difficulty

Trumpet Tree requires a bit more attention and knowledge to thrive, making it a suitable plant for those with some gardening experience.

Water

Trumpet Tree should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Lighting

Trumpet Tree requires abundant, bright and direct light. Placing it less than one foot from a window is the best way to make sure the plant receives enough light to survive and thrive. Depending on your region, however, the current weather can affect the placement of the plant in your home. For example, in some areas the sun may be too direct and intense, so it's best to place it farther away from the window. You may also need to adjust your placement according to the season as the sunlight can change intensity over the course of the year. If you live in a region with significant temperature fluctuations, such as a desert, you may need to place the plant a bit farther away from the window to avoid extreme heat or cold. With some care and attention, your Trumpet Tree will be sure to bring you many years of beauty and enjoyment.

Dormancy

During the cold period, it is common for Trumpet Tree to go dormant and their growth may slow down, so waterings should be spaced out more during this period.

Toxicity

Ploi does not possess verified information regarding the toxicity of this particular plant. In the event that you, a member of your family, or a pet ingests plant material with an unclear toxicity level, it is highly recommended to seek the advice of a medical professional.

Region of origin

Trumpet Tree’s native range is S. America - Brazil and Colombia, north through Central America to Mexico and the Caribbean.


More info:
Wikipedia