Basswood vs. Balsa Wood: How Do They Differ?

Two highly recognizable kinds of wood are basswood (Tilia americana) and balsa wood (Ochroma pyramidale). You have likely heard these names, even if you don’t know much about trees or woodworking. But are they really that different?

This article explores the similarities and differences between these two magnificent trees.

Basswood vs. Balsa Wood: Comparison

We have highlighted some of these unique characteristics to help better showcase the differences between basswood and balsa wood. There is a chart below that explores the attributes of each tree.

Both basswood (Tilia americana) and balsa wood (Ochroma pyramidale) belong to the Malvaceae (mallow) family. This broad family category has over 4,200 species of trees, shrubs, and herbaceous plants.

While basswood and balsa wood share similar traits, they also have distinct features. A few of their differences include their uses, size, leaves, flowers, and growing requirements. Below, we explore each feature in depth.

Basswood vs. Balsa Wood: Uses

Woodworkers love basswood. Its soft nature is ideal for carving things like crates, barrels, boxes, and frames for honeycombs. Historically, basswood got turned into ropes and cords.

While balsa wood is the quintessential wood for models, especially model airplanes. It has a naturally lightweight nature, ideal for small craft projects.

Basswood vs. Balsa Wood: Size

Both members of the Malvaceae family grow tall, but not equally so.

Basswood grows between 75 and 130 feet high and has a rounded crown. While it is rare for them to exceed 100 feet, it is possible.

On the other hand, balsa wood grows to a maximum height of 98 feet and has a flat, wide crown. 

Basswood vs. Balsa Wood: Leaves

Basswood and balsa wood each have heart-shaped leaves. However, the more minute details of those leaves differ greatly.

The leaves on basswood trees have uneven bases and toothed edges. They typically grow around 3-6 inches in length. Their underside is a silvery color.

However, balsa wood leaves have cornered edges and 3-5 distinct veins. Additionally, their underside is white rather than silver.

Basswood vs. Balsa Wood: Flowers

Basswood flowers have a short season. They arrive in either May or June (depending on the weather) and only last through July. The light, delicate, highly fragrant flowers are pale yellow. And bees adore their sweet nectar. Bees that visit basswood trees produce distinctive honey from the pale blossoms.

In contrast, balsa wood flowers are large and white. Additionally, they bloom at an unexpected time — December and January. Additionally, pollinators of all kinds adore their blossoms.

Basswood vs. Balsa Wood: Growing Requirements

Lovely basswood trees are not terribly picky about their growing environment. They love Zones 3-8 and moist, well-draining soil. Beyond that, they don’t ask for much. The beautiful trees are highly adaptable to a variety of soil conditions. Additionally, they can tolerate any amount of sun, from full exposure to full shade. 

However, balsa wood will only grow in specific environments. You will often see them close to streams or rivers. The evergreens are only hardy in Zones 10-11 and prefer very moist soil. They require full sun and are frost-tender, but the lovely trees will grow in heavy clay soil and are drought-tolerant.