Brazilwood (Paubrasilia echinata)
Care, watering, light and tips for Brazilwood on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Fabaceae
- Difficulty: Demanding
- Watering: every 5 days
- Light: Full sun
- Temperature: 5–35 °C
- Toxicity: Toxic to pets
About Brazilwood
Paubrasilia echinata, commonly known as Pau-Brasil, is a majestic tree, emblematic of Brazil, renowned for its deep red wood. Its bright yellow flowers cluster in racemes, adding an exotic and vibrant touch to the landscape. It is ideal for parks, botanical gardens, or as an ornamental tree in large estates, where it can fully develop its impressive canopy.
Native range
Atlantic Forest of Brazil
Care tips
It requires full sun exposure for optimal growth and abundant flowering. Watering should be moderate, allowing the substrate to dry out slightly between waterings, especially in hot and dry climates. It prefers well-drained soils, rich in organic matter, and with a slightly acidic pH. A common mistake is overwatering in early stages, which can lead to root rot.
How to save a dying Brazilwood
- Warning signs
- Yellowing or massive leaf drop, soft or dry stems, stunted growth.
- First aid
- Move to warm, partial shade. Check drainage. If soil is dry, water deeply. If waterlogged, aerate roots.
- What kills it
- Overwatering causing root rot, or prolonged lack of light/low temperatures. It's cold-sensitive.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if roots aren't completely rotted and live tissue remains. Act quickly.