The potential of Bombacopsis quinata as a commercial plantation species

Abstract

Bombacopsis quinata (red ceiba) is a broadleaf, deciduous tree which occurs naturally from southern Honduras to central Venezuela in areas with a well-defined dry season and elevations ranging from sea level to 900m above sea level. Wood of the species from natural stands is much in demand for the production of lumber, furniture, door and window framing, particle-board, plywood and veneer, resulting in extensive harvesting that threatens populations in a number of areas. Genetic and silvicultural research on the species began during the 1960s, but it was not until the 1980s that B. quinata was used in commercial-scale plantations established in Colombia and Costa Rica. The species offers relatively easy plantation culture, moderate growth rates (10–20 m 3 ha −1 year −1 on most sites), and the production of a valuable and versatile wood of moderate density. Although well adapted to many sites in the tropics with a pronounced dry season, the species may have greatest value in areas of relatively low rainfall (800–1200 mm annual rainfall) where other commercial species exhibit poor survival or slow growth. The species is relatively easy to reproduce sexually and vegetatively, providing opportunities for rapid gains through breeding. Site selection, planting stock quality, time of planting, site preparation and weed control are important aspects in achieving good plantation productivity. Prunings and thinnings will be implemented in many plantations to produce defect-free, high-quality wood. Gene conservation and associated genetic improvement programs are underway but gene conservation activities should be intensified. The species has potential for planting in the seasonally dry tropics outside of its natural range.