SafePlants

African Copaiba Balsam Tree

Explore the fascinating world of the African Copaiba Balsam Tree, Daniellia oliveri. This tree, native to Tropical Africa, is known for its balsam, which can be steam distilled to produce copaiba oil.

Considerations for Pets

• The balsam of Daniellia oliveri can be extracted as copaiba oil.

Considerations for Children

• The African Copaiba Balsam Tree is known to be found in homes and gardens.

Scientific Name and Common Names

• Scientific Name: Daniellia oliveri (Rolfe) Hutch. & Dalziel
• Common Names:
  • African Copaiba Balsam Tree
  • West African Copal
  • Ilorin Balsam
  • West African Gum Copal

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Family: Leguminosae (Fabaceae) / Caesalpiniaceae
• Taxonomic Rank: Species
• Synonym: Paradaniellia oliveri Rolfe

Distribution and Habitat

• Native to Tropical Africa, including regions such as:
  • Senegal
  • Benin Republic
  • Cameroon
  • Nigeria
• Found in:
  • Eastern Guinean forests
  • Western Guinean lowland forests
  • Guinean forest-savanna mosaic
  • West Sudanian savanna

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• Evergreen tree, growing up to 35 meters tall and 1 meter in diameter.
• Leaf Type: Evergreen
• Structure: Tree

Interactions with Other Organisms

• Daniellia oliveri serves as a food source for the Eastern Grey Plantain-eater (Crinifer zonurus).

Uses

• The balsam may be steam distilled to give copaiba oil.
• The tree is a fodder tree.
• Traditionally used for dysentery, diarrhoea, toothache, and urinary ailments.

Resources and Further Information

• Photo Guide to Plants of Southern Africa, Online Flora
• PROTA (Plant Resources of Tropical Africa)
• Garden Guides