Gaussia maya
(O. F. Cook) H. J. Quero & Read
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Summary
Source: WikipediaGaussia maya is a palm which is native to Mexico, Belize and Guatemala. The species grows in rocky areas on limestone soils. The species is classified as vulnerable, and is threatened by habitat destruction and degradation. Gaussia maya are 5 to 20 metres tall. Stems are gray, 10 to 15 (sometimes 30) centimetres in diameter. Trees have six to eight pinnately compound leaves. Fruit are red, 1 to 1.5 cm in diameter. Stems are used for construction.
Description
A palm.
This description is brief — help expand it
Distribution
It is a tropical plant.
Where It Grows
Belize, Central America, Guatemala, Mexico,
Cultivation
Plants can tolerate occasional short-lived frosts with temperatures falling to around -2°c. The plant likes a shady position in a moist but well drained soil when it is young, but it can take more sun as it grows. The plant often flowers very freely, this can result in up to a dozen inflorescences being on a plant at any one time. Plants have a moderate rate of growth.
Propagation
Seed - it takes 2 months to germinate.
Other Uses
The stems are very durable. They are used in construction.
Synonyms
Also Known As
Cambo, Pacaya, Palma cimarrona, Palmasito
References (1)
- Kermath, B. M., et al, 2014, Food Plants in the Americas: A survey of the domesticated, cultivated and wild plants used for Human food in North, Central and South America and the Caribbean. On line draft. p 385
