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Copal

Hymenaea martianafam. Fabaceae
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Hymenaea martiana (Copal) — botanical photograph
Pl. 47BA — Hymenaea martiana
Hymenaea martianaHymenaea martianaHymenaea martianaHymenaea martianaHymenaea martianaHymenaea martianaHymenaea martianaHymenaea martianaHymenaea martianaHymenaea martianaHymenaea martianaHymenaea martianaHymenaea martianaHymenaea martiana
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Overview

Copal, scientifically known as *Hymenaea martiana* and belonging to the Fabaceae family, is a tree native to regions in Bolivia, Brazil (including North, Northeast, Southeast, and West-Central), Colombia, and Paraguay. Thriving in full sun and preferring moist conditions, Copal can grow up to 13 meters tall and is adaptable to various soil types, including light (sandy), medium, and heavy (clay). The fruit of Copal is edible and can be eaten raw or used in various preparations, making it a valuable resource within its native range. This tree is known for its culinary uses and is a versatile addition to landscapes in suitable climates. While Copal is not traditionally used for medicinal purposes, its fruit offers a nutritious option for consumption.

Quick answers

What is Copal?

Copal, scientifically known as *Hymenaea martiana* and belonging to the Fabaceae family, is a tree native to regions in Bolivia, Brazil (including North, Northeast, Southeast, and West-Central), Colombia, and Paraguay.

Compare with:Acacia holosericea→Acacia mearnsii→Adenanthera pavonina→all comparisons →
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
V

Cultivation

Copal thrives in full sun and requires moist soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is hardy in temperate regions with a minimum temperature range of 10-12. The tree can grow up to 13 meters tall and is native to areas including Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, and Paraguay. For propagation, the gardener can use seeds. The fruit is edible, making it a useful addition to the garden.
Light
Full sun
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
10-12
Mature size
13.0 m tall
For first-time growers

How to grow Copal for the first time

8steps

Begin by planting Copal in a sunny spot with well-draining soil for the best results.

  1. 1

    What you'll need

    Copal seeds, potting mix, container or garden space.

  2. 2

    Best time to plant

    Plant in spring when temperatures are consistently above 10°C (50°F).

  3. 3

    Soil and container prep

    Use a well-draining soil mix suitable for light, medium, or heavy soils.

  4. 4

    Sowing or transplanting

    Direct sow seeds in the garden or start them indoors 8 weeks before planting outside.

  5. 5

    First two weeks

    Keep the soil moist and provide partial shade if direct sunlight is too intense.

  6. 6

    Ongoing care

    Ensure regular watering, especially during dry periods. Fertilize lightly in spring with a balanced fertilizer.

  7. 7

    Harvest or pruning

    Prune young plants to shape and remove dead branches. Harvest fruits when they turn yellow.

  8. 8

    Common mistakes

    Overwatering, planting in heavy clay soil, not providing enough light, neglecting pruning, and using too much fertilizer.

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Edible & utility

Edible parts:Fruit
Edible uses: The fruit of Copal (Hymenaea martiana) is edible and can be eaten raw or used in various preparations. Typically, the fruit is consumed fresh but may also be dried for later use.
Other uses:Lumber
Contextrange · companions · related
VII

Distribution

7 native · 0 introduced
Distribution across1 continent· 7 native
Americas3 regions
native (3)BoliviaColombiaParaguay
Broader regions
native:Brazil North, Brazil Northeast, Brazil Southeast, Brazil West-Central
IX

Specimen gallery

1 image
Hymenaea martiana (Copal) — botanical photograph
Copal (Hymenaea martiana)
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See also

8 related
XI

Explore further

Companion planting
Growing zone
XII

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