Contents
Description
Carapa Procera, also known as “Crabwood” or “Andiroba,” is a tall tree that can grow up to 40 meters tall. It belongs to the family Meliaceae and is native to the tropical regions of South and Central America, as well as the Caribbean. This medicinal plant has been used for centuries for its various benefits. The bark and seeds of the tree are used to make oils, which have anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, and insecticidal properties. The oil is commonly used to treat skin ailments, fever, and even to repel insects.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Kingdom | Phylum | Class | Order | Family| Genus||——–|———|——–|——-|——-|———–|—————|| Eukarya| Plantae | Tracheophyta | Magnoliopsida | Sapindales | Meliaceae | Carapa |
Appearance
Carapa Procera has a straight trunk with a grayish-brown bark that is smooth or slightly fissured. The leaves are compound and can have up to 17 leaflets. The flowers are small and white, and the fruit is a hard-shelled capsule that contains up to 70 seeds. The seeds are brown and have a triangular shape with a pointed tip. The tree produces a yellowish-brown oil that has a nutty smell.
Care Guide
Carapa Procera thrives in well-drained soils and can tolerate partial shade to full sun. It is a hardy plant that can withstand drought and frost. Watering should be done sparingly, and the soil should be allowed to dry out between waterings. Fertilization is not necessary, as the tree can obtain nutrients from the soil. However, adding compost or organic matter to the soil can improve its fertility. The plant can grow in hardiness zones 10-12.
Common Pests & Diseases
Carapa Procera is vulnerable to various pests and diseases, including scale insects, mealybugs, and leaf spot. In severe cases, these pests can cause defoliation and reduce the plant’s vigor. To prevent infestations, it is recommended to keep the plant healthy by providing adequate care and removing any infected leaves or branches.
Habitat
Carapa Procera can be found in the tropical regions of South and Central America, as well as the Caribbean. It grows in various habitats, including rainforests, savannas, and swamps. The tree is an important part of the local ecosystem, providing food and shelter for various wildlife species.
Question and Answer
Q: What are the benefits of using Carapa Procera oil?
A: Carapa Procera oil has anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, and insecticidal properties. It is commonly used to treat skin ailments, fever, and even to repel insects.
Q: Is Carapa Procera a hardy plant?
A: Yes, Carapa Procera is a hardy plant that can withstand drought and frost.
Q: What are the common pests and diseases that affect Carapa Procera?
A: Carapa Procera is vulnerable to various pests and diseases, including scale insects, mealybugs, and leaf spot.
Q: Where can Carapa Procera be found?
A: Carapa Procera can be found in the tropical regions of South and Central America, as well as the Caribbean.
Related Plants
– Carapa guianensis- Cedrela odorata- Swietenia macrophylla- Khaya senegalensis
References
– “Carapa guianensis Aublet.” GBIF.org. Accessed August 31, 2021. https://www.gbif.org/species/3151117.- “Cedrela odorata.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed August 31, 2021. http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=f431.- “Swietenia macrophylla.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed August 31, 2021. http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c633.- “Khaya senegalensis.” World Agroforestry. Accessed August 31, 2021. https://www.worldagroforestry.org/treedb2/AFTPDFS/Khaya_senegalensis.pdf.
