Common Name:
curupay
Family Name:
Fabaceae
Botanical Name:
Anadenanthera colubrina
Sub Species:
Variety:
Forma:
Cultivar:
Characteristics:
The curupay is a medium to tall deciduous tree that typically reaches heights of 12–24 m (39–79 ft), though specimens may grow up to 30 m (98 ft) (1). The trunk is straight and cylindrical, often thorny, and can be free of branches for up to 7 m (20 ft), with a diameter of 30–90 cm (12-35 in) (1, 2). Its bark is attractive and oak-like, occasionally forming large knobby protrusions at maturity (3). The leaves are bipinnately compound and mimosa-like, reaching up to 30 cm (12 in) in length, with leaflets that fold up at night (2, 3). Cream-colored, spherical inflorescences appear from September to December in its native range in Argentina, with seed pods developing from September through July (2). These flat seed pods are 10–25 cm (4–10 in) long and contain large, shiny brown seeds (3).
Compound:
Geographic Origin:
Ecozone Origin:
Biome Origin:
Natural History:
Anadenanthera colubrina is native to South America and grows widely in countries such as Argentina, Brazil, Bolivia, Paraguay, and Peru (1, 2). The species is well adapted to a range of elevations from around 315 to 2,200 meters and thrives in dry forests, savannas, and riverine hillsides (2). In its natural range, the tree is fast-growing, drought tolerant, and nitrogen-fixing, making it a pioneer species in degraded or secondary growth forests (1, 3).The genus Anadenanthera belongs to the Fabaceae family, which includes many nitrogen-fixing trees. Originally described under the genus Piptadenia, it was later reclassified based on distinct morphological and chemical characteristics (1). The species name colubrina may refer to its snake-like pods or the patterns in its bark.
Cultivation Notes:
Anadenanthera colubrina is grown both ornamentally and for its valuable timber. It is hardy in subtropical to tropical climates, tolerating drought once established and thriving in USDA zones 9b–10a (3). It prefers full sun and well-draining soil, though it can adapt to a wide range of soil types including rocky, clay, and nutrient-poor soils (1, 2). Young trees grow rapidly, often reaching 4–5 meters within two years (1). The species is propagated by seed, which should be sown fresh due to short viability. Germination typically occurs within 4–8 days, and seedlings are ready to be planted out in about four months (1).
Ethnobotany:
The Curupay has a long history of use in indigenous South American cultures. The seeds are traditionally ground into a powder and used as a hallucinogenic snuff called vilca or cebil, containing psychoactive compounds such as bufotenin and DMT (2). This snuff was used in rituals to induce trance states, visions, and spiritual communication, especially by shamans (1, 2). Archaeological finds suggest its ritual use dates back over 4,000 years, with evidence of ceremonial pipes and trays (2, 3). Medicinally, the bark is used for its astringent and anti-inflammatory properties, often applied to treat respiratory issues, wounds, and lung conditions (1, 3). A gum from the bark is also used as a cough remedy. Additionally, the tree has been used in cultural practices such as offerings, head washes for headaches, and even as an abortifacient (3). The wood is dense, reddish, and highly valued for its hardness and durability, used in construction and fine woodworking (1, 2, 3). The durable wood is not only used for construction, tools, and firewood, while the bark is valued for its tannin content in leather processing (1, 2).
Height:
20 - 50 feet
Width:
16 - 20 feet
Growth Rate:
Fast Growing
Grow Season:
ForeSummer
Flower Season:
Fall
Color:
Cream
Function:
Shade
Spread:
Non-spreading
Allergen:
Non-allergenic
Invasive:
Benign
Toxicity:
Benign
Hardy:
Hardy
Water Use:
Moderate Water Use
