Dipteryx Species, Dutch Tonka Bean, Taquin Butter, Tonka Bean

Beautiful tree from the new world tropics that can grow to over 150 feet tall. I saw some in Guyana (picture posted) that were enormous a...Read Morend lovely. It really is a neat experience to stand next to a giant like that.

Commonly known as Brazilian Teak, Cumaru, or Tonka Bean. This is a huge rainforest canopy tree from the Amazon River Basin, whose natur...Read Moreal habitat stretches across several countries, including Brazil, Guyana, French Guyana, Suriname, Peru, and Venezuela.

The wood of this species is frequently used in construction and for carpentry. In fact, the wood flooring in our home is Brazilian Teak, or Cumaru. The wood is a gorgeous brown when sanded and given a clear finish coat, with some honey golden tones and occasional black streaking. It is one of the hardest woods around when properly dried, and makes a remarkably durable hardwood floor. It's Janka hardness rating is 3540- that's over 250% harder than red oak!

Apparently, the indigenous peoples of South America have numerous uses for the seeds (Tonka Beans), and bark. Scientific research reveals the tree contains chemical compounds which work as an anticoagulant. In S. America, it is used for everything from treating ear infections to shampoo. The beans also have a wonderful fragrance similar to vanilla.

This is a very hard species to locate outside of it's natural environment. I would love to experiment with it in South Florida. I'll post a follow-up if I am ever able to locate a reliable seed source.