Macawood

Macawood is native to rain and monsoon forests in South America. The plant in the Tropical House is grown from seeds collected in connection with a research project at Aarhus University, which aimed to describe the distribution and evolution of Macawood.

Macawood is a very valuable timber. The wood is hard and reddish with a beautiful sheen. It is very resistant to rot and has therefore been highly valued for house construction and furniture production.

Over-exploitation of Macawood has led to several species being currently threatened with extinction. 

Facts:

• Greenhouse location: Tropical house
• Danish name: Macatræ
• Latin name: Platymiscium pinnatum
• Family: Pea family / Fabaceae
• Natural habitat: Amazon rainforest

Learn more about other plants here.