Family: Papilionaceae

Native to tropical America, this genus consists of two species of slender, graceful, evergreen trees, grown for their timber and their attractive, white flowers, resembling butterflies, and glossy, green foliage. They are also the source of true balsam, used in medicines and cosmetics. An abundance of winged fruits appear in late summer.

Species

M. balsamum, from Venezuela, is the more common species.

Cultivation

Outside the tropics, grow myroxylons in a warm humid greenhouse. Propagate from scarified seed.

Climate

Tropical only.