Scientific name: Cedrela odorata

POWO Status: Tree

IUCN Red List threat level: Vulnerable

GPS Location: 17° 42′ ″ N, 64° 49′ ″ W

Observations:

Phenological Markers – Cigar Box Cedar (Cedrela odorata)

1. Leaf Behavior
C. odorata is deciduous, with a clear period of leaflessness during the dry season, typically from January to March in St. Croix.

• Leaves are pinnately compound, often 20–30 inches long, with numerous lance-shaped leaflets.
• New leaf flush typically occurs just after flowering, usually by April or May.

Observation Tips:

• Track timing and completeness of leaf drop—mature trees may lose leaves almost entirely.
• New leaf growth is soft, pale green, and emerges rapidly once rains begin.

2. Flowering
Produces panicles of small, white to pale greenish flowers, which are fragrant and rich in nectar.

• Flowering begins in late dry season (March–April) after or during leaf drop.
• The tree is monoecious, bearing male and female flowers on the same tree.
• Pollinated primarily by insects, especially bees.

Observation Tips:

• Look for clusters of tiny blooms along terminal branches.
• Note pollinator visits, especially on sunny mornings.
• Flowering often coincides with a largely bare canopy, improving visibility.

3. Fruiting
Fruits are woody capsules, about 1–2 inches long, that split into five parts, releasing winged seeds.

• Fruit development occurs over several months, with seed dispersal usually in late summer to early fall (August–October).
• Seeds are wind-dispersed and lightweight.

Observation Tips:

• Track fruit set, color change, and capsule dehiscence (splitting).
• Look for seed release during breezy conditions, often seen fluttering to the ground.

4. Seasonal Pattern (St. Croix)

• Jan–Mar: Full or near-full leaf drop
• Mar–Apr: Flowering
• Apr–May: New leaf flush
• Jun–Oct: Fruiting and seed dispersal
• Nov–Dec: Full canopy, slower activity