Common Name: Caroba do Mato

General Information

Jacaranda micrantha is a deciduous tree growing 10 - 25 metres tall with an open, narrow, columnar-shaped crown[, ]. The bole is fluted and can be 40 - 60cm in diameter[, ].
The tree is harvested from the wild as a local source of medicines and wood - the leaves used to be sold in local pharmacies[]. A very ornamental tree, especially when in bloom, it is used for streetside plantings and in large gardens[].
Jacaranda micrantha is a widespread species facing no significant global threats. The plant is classified as 'Least Concern' in the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species(2020)[].

Known Hazards

The plant is said to be poisonous[].

Botanical References

,

Range

S. America - northeast Argentina, Paraguay, Brazil.

Habitat

Broadleaved and semi-deciduous forests; at elevations up to 850 metres[]. Occasionally found in dense, primary forest, it is more likely to be found in secondary formations[].

Properties

Conservation Status	Least Concern
Medicinal Rating
Other Uses Rating
Habit	Deciduous Tree
Height	22.00 m
Growth Rate	Fast
Cultivation Status	Ornamental, Wild

Cultivation Details

A tree of subtropical to tropical areas, where it is usually found at lower elevations, but extending up to 900 metres.
Prefers a position in full sun[]. Succeeds in a well-drained, high-fertlity soil[].
Young seedlings usually establish well when planted out and grow away quickly[].

Edible Uses

None known

Medicinal

The leaves are depurative and antisyphilitic[, ]. They are much used in southern Brazil[].

Although the plant (part not specified) is said to be poisonous, it is also a useful treatment against syphilitic wounds[].

A quinol derivative with antibacterial properties has been isolated[].

Other Uses

The yellowish-white heartwood and sapwood are almost indistinct[]. The wood is light, easily worked, mechanically resistant but not very durable outdoors[]. It is mainly used for indoor applications such as furniture, musical instruments, general carpentry, interior finish, packing cases etc[, , ]. The wood is pulped for making paper[].

Propagation

Seed - it has a very short viability and so should be sown as soon as it is ripe[]. Sow in a semi-shaded position in a nursery seedbed. Germination rates are usually high, with the seed sprouting within 15 - 20 days. Pot the seedlings up into individual containers when they are 5 - 6cm tall and they should be ready to plant out 3 - 4 months later[].
Cuttings of semi-ripe wood with a heel[].

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