Click here to open feedback window. Contribution to an evaluation of tree species using the new CITES Listing Criteria 158 Balmea stormae  Rubiaceae Locally known as ayuque Distribution Mexico (Michoacan), Guatemala (Zacapa, Jalapa and Huehuetenango) (Standley and Williams, 1975). It may be commoner than suspected in botanically unstudied parts of Mexico (Fosberg, 1974). Habitat The plant has been recorded from both dry, stony places in Michoacan and moist or wet, mixed or oak mountain forest in Guatemala at 1,400-2,300 ft. Population Status and Trends Role of species in the Ecosystem Threats Utilisation Due to the brilliant scarlet-red flowers, it has long been a favourite of the people of the region in which it grows. It is commonly cut and sold in markets in the Uruapan area as a Christmas tree. This use of Balmea arose when laws were enforced making it illegal to cut conifer saplings for this purpose. For this reason it is likely Balmea will soon become very rare in any place where it may be discovered Trade IUCN Conservation category Not evaluated Conservation Measures Forest Management and Silviculture References Fosberg, F.R. 1974. Studies in American Rubiaceae 2. Ayuque, Balmea stormae, an Endangered Mexican Species. Sida 5(4):268-270. Martinez, M. 1942. A new genus of Rubiaceae from Mexico. Bulletin of the Torrey Botanical Club 69(6):438-441, figs. 1-11. Standley, P.C. and Williams, L:O. 19745. Flora of Guatemala: Rubiaceae. Fieldiana, Bot. 24(11), Nos. 1-3: 1-274.