About Zeyheria tuberculosa (Vell.) Bureau ex Verl.
Zeyheria tuberculosa (Vell.) Bureau ex Verl. is a tree species that grows to 15 to 23 meters in height, with a trunk diameter between 40 and 60 cm. Its leaves are compound, consisting of five leaflets, and reach 40 to 60 cm in total length. This tree blooms from November through January, and its fruit ripens between July and September. Its seeds are lightweight and dispersed by wind. This species is valued as a timber tree, urban tree, and ornamental tree for landscaping. Its wood is both flexible and durable. Because it grows quickly and has a high reproduction rate, it is used to restore degraded areas. Planting this species has been found to improve soil quality in previously deforested regions, adding nitrogen and potassium through increased organic matter. Extracts from this tree, known locally as "ipê-preto", are used in folk medicine to treat cancer and skin diseases. Laboratory testing has confirmed that these extracts have antimicrobial properties, but no clinical applications have been developed due to toxicity concerns.
