About Apeiba tibourbou Aubl.
Apeiba tibourbou Aubl. is a fast-growing tree species. It is native to the Caatinga and Cerrado vegetation regions of Brazil, and to Costa Rica. It can also be found across Mexico, Central America, and the northern portion of South America. This tree typically grows to 15 meters tall, and may reach up to 25 meters in certain habitats.
Its flowers are star-shaped and yellow, and develop into dry capsules covered in soft green spines after flowering. Its leaves are pointed at the tip, rounded at the base, and measure 10–30 centimeters long by 6–12 centimeters wide. Leaves are borne on 1–3 centimeter-long petioles; their margins are lightly serrated, and their veins are lightly hairy.
This species has two main recorded uses: it is grown as an alternative fiber crop for paper production, and its light, easily buoyant wood is used to make buoys and small boats.
