Cecropia pachystachya, commonly known as Ambay pumpwood, is a small evergreen tree that is part of the Urticaceae family. It is native to the subtropical and tropical regions of South America, including Argentina, Paraguay, and Brazil, where it typically grows in riparian zones, forest edges, and secondary forests up to an elevation of 3,300 feet. The tree can reach up to 20 feet in height and is known for its hollow twigs filled with mucilage, which are adaptations to its native environment. The large, circular leaves are deeply divided into lobes, creating a distinctive and attractive foliage display.

Ambay pumpwood is valued for its rapid growth and its large, ornamental leaves which can provide a tropical look in gardens. It is often used in reforestation projects and as a pioneer species in disturbed areas due to its ability to quickly colonize open spaces. In cultivation, it prefers moist, well-drained soils and can tolerate a range of light conditions from full sun to partial shade. However, gardeners should be aware that it can become invasive outside its native range, and its hollow branches can be prone to breakage in high winds. It is also susceptible to leaf cutter ants and can suffer from root rot if overwatered.CC BY-SA 4.0