Copaiba Balsam (Copaifera officinalis)

Family: Fabaceae | Edibility: Edible (2/5)

Copaiba Balsam, Copaifera officinalis, is a well-branched tree with a short bole and wide canopy. It can grow up to 30 m in height or taller. It is grown in Northern South America particularly in Brazil, Venezuela, and Guyana. Like other species in the Copaifera genus, it is a source of an oily oleo-resin known as copaiba-balsam. The resin is used as a food additive and as flavouring agents in food and beverages.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Leaves

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Fall, Late Summer, Spring

Flavor & Culinary Uses

flavouring agents in food and beverages. — Like other species in the Copaifera genus, it is a source of an oily oleo-resin known as copaiba-balsam.; The resin is used as a food additive and as flavouring agents in food and beverages.

Habitat & North American Range

A canopy tree of the rainforests, usually found in well-drained sandy loams. (Zone 10)