Handroanthus guayacan aka Guayacan

Handroanthus guayacan, or guayacan, is a deciduous tropical tree. It belongs to the Bignoniaceae family. Its native range runs from southern Mexico to Peru. It grows in coastal rainforests and on wooded mountain slopes. It also occurs in open parts of wetter and drier forests. Most sites lie in the lowland tropics. Some reach 3,937 feet [1,200 metres] above sea level.

This tree needs room to reach its full size. PFAF lists a height of 131 feet [40 metres]. It gives a spread of 82 feet [25 metres]. Useful Tropical Plants reports rare heights of 197 feet [60 metres]. The crown can be narrow or rounded. The straight trunk often has low, clear buttresses. Its lower 39–49 feet [12–15 metres] may lack branches. The tree sheds its leaves and grows at a moderate rate. Its yellow flowers provide the main ornamental display. The fruit forms a seedpod that splits to release seeds.

Grow this species in full sun, with moist, well-drained soil. It does not grow in shade. It accepts sandy soil, loam, and clay. Suitable soil pH ranges from mildly acid to mildly alkaline. It can also grow in saline soil. The tree tolerates salt-bearing winds and coastal exposure. PFAF places it in USDA zones 10–12. Growers can raise it from seed, half-ripe cuttings, or air layers. Sow seed soon after it ripens.

People plant guayacan for its flowers where space allows. Its timber also enters international trade as ipê. The heartwood ranges from olive-brown to reddish-brown, sometimes with fine stripes. Pale sapwood forms a clear contrast around it. The wood is hard, dense, and durable. It resists insect damage and takes heavy impacts well. Uses include buildings, boats, and tool handles. Working it can prove difficult because it tends to splinter. Even so, it can take a smooth finish.

PFAF lists no known food or medicinal uses. Wood dust can cause skin irritation in some workers. It may also affect sight and cause breathing trouble. These reports concern sawdust rather than food use. Useful Tropical Plants cites a 2021 IUCN assessment of Least Concern. The species remains widespread and abundant. Its value as timber still makes monitoring important.