In South America, Ecuador is home to the lightweight balsa wood tree, a large and long tree that can be carried by just two people running.
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(Image: tfts.org) |
Balsa wood is even lighter than cork, making it the lightest wood in the world.
The balsa tree belongs to the Bombacaceae family and is a medium-sized evergreen tree. A tree that has been cultivated for 10 years can reach a height of 16 meters and a diameter of 50-60 cm. Its leaves are broad and heart-shaped, arranged alternately along the branches. The large white flowers bloom at the top canopy, while the round, elongated fruit contains fluffy tufts of fibers and consists of five segments. The seeds are inverted egg-shaped, either light red or coffee-colored, covered in soft hairs similar to cotton seeds.
Balsa wood originates from South America and the West Indies. Locally, it is called “Balsa,” which means “raft” in Spanish. Balsa wood is renowned for its buoyancy, making it ideal for constructing rafts that can carry substantial weight.
The balsa tree is one of the fastest-growing plants in the world, growing 5-6 meters in height and 5-13 cm in diameter each year. Its cells regenerate quickly, resulting in very lightweight, soft, and elastic parts.
The dry wood density ranges from 0.1 to 0.25. This material is excellent for soundproofing, thermal insulation, and electrical insulation, making it highly suitable for manufacturing aircraft and lifeboats.
