Hymenaea parvifolia

Hymenaea parvifolia, commonly known as the Guayacán, is a majestic tropical tree prized for its dense, durable timber and medicinal properties. Traditionally, its resin and bark are utilized in folk medicine to treat inflammation and skin ailments, offering a rich source of bioactive compounds for holistic healing practices.

  • Scientific name: Hymenaea parvifolia
  • Family: Fabaceae
  • Native range: Southern America

Taxonomical Classification

This plant belongs to the kingdom Plantae and is classified under the phylum Streptophyta and class Equisetopsida. Within the subclass Magnoliidae, it falls under the order Fabales and is a member of the Fabaceae family. Specifically, its taxonomic identity is defined by the genus Hymenaea, of which the species Hymenaea parvifolia is a part.

Rank Classification Source
Kingdom Plantae WCVP
Phylum Streptophyta WCVP
Class Equisetopsida WCVP
Subclass Magnoliidae WCVP
Order Fabales WCVP
Family Fabaceae WCVP
Genus Hymenaea WCVP

Common Names

This plant, known scientifically as Hymenaea parvifolia, is recognized by various regional common names depending on the linguistic context. In English, it is frequently referred to as the small-leaved jambol or simply as a species of jambol. In Spanish, it is commonly known as guayacán or guayacán de monte, reflecting its place within the broader family of important timber and medicinal trees. Additionally, in Portuguese, it is identified as guayacán, a name that highlights its shared botanical heritage across the tropical regions of the Americas.
Language Common Name Source

Distribution

This plant exhibits a diverse distribution across several regions of the South American continent. In Northern South America, its presence is documented within the borders of Venezuela. Moving toward the western side of the continent, it can be found in Colombia, Peru, and Bolivia. Additionally, the species extends into the Brazil West-Central region. Together, these locations illustrate the wide geographical range of Hymenaea parvifolia.

Region Area Source
Northern South America Venezuela WCVP
Western South America Bolivia WCVP
Western South America Colombia WCVP
Western South America Peru WCVP
Brazil Brazil West-Central WCVP
Brazil Brazil Northeast WCVP
Brazil Brazil North WCVP

Chemicals

Hymenaea parvifolia has 2 reported phytochemicals identified across 2 scientific publications and several other databases. The most consistently reported chemicals include fatty acids, flavonoids.

Total chemicals
2
Scientific sources
2

Most Reported Compounds

Compound Sources Confidence
fatty acids 1 ★☆☆☆☆
flavonoids 1 ★☆☆☆☆