Also known as Bitter Ash · Bitter Damson · Bitterwood
Paradise Tree (Simarouba glauca) is a fast-growing evergreen tree native to the Americas, known for its ornamental value and potential for timber and oil production.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun
100% intensity
Prefers at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily.
Moderate
50% intensity
Keep soil consistently moist, allow top inch to dry between waterings.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Warm
75% intensity
Thrives in temperatures between 18-29°C. Protect from frost.
Moderate
50% intensity
Feed with balanced fertilizer during growing season.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Simarouba glauca prefers consistently moist soil, especially when young. Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry. Avoid waterlogging, as this can lead to root rot.
Reduce watering frequency during cooler months or when the plant is dormant, but never let the soil dry out completely.
Prune Simarouba glauca to maintain its shape, remove dead or damaged branches, and encourage bushier growth.
Light pruning can be done anytime, but heavier shaping is best in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Use clean, sharp pruning tools to prevent disease.
The Paradise Tree can be propagated from seeds, which require scarification and a warm, moist environment to germinate. Stem cuttings can also be taken, preferably from semi-hardwood during the growing season.
Rooting hormone can improve success rates for cuttings.
Repot young Simarouba glauca plants every 1-2 years, or when they become root-bound. Use a well-draining potting mix. Choose a pot that is slightly larger than the current one.
Mature trees are often best left in their pots or planted directly in the ground.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Paradise Tree (Simarouba glauca)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Sapindales |
| Family | Simaroubaceae |
| Genus | Simarouba |
| Species | Simarouba glauca |
Similar in genus Simarouba
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
