Ocotea porosa, commonly known as Brazilian Walnut or Imbuia, is an evergreen tree native to the Atlantic Forest biome of Southern Brazil, as well as parts of Paraguay and Uruguay. It can reach up to 40 meters in height and 1.8 meters in trunk diameter, with a dense, rounded canopy. The tree’s bark is dark and fissured, and it produces inconspicuous yellow-green flowers followed by small, purple-black fruit. Brazilian Walnut is highly valued for its beautiful, dark, and fragrant wood, which carries a spicy scent reminiscent of nutmeg and cinnamon.

Brazilian Walnut is sought after for its durable and attractive timber, which is used in high-end furniture, decorative veneers, and flooring. It is also appreciated in landscaping for its stately appearance and shade-providing canopy. While it is not commonly grown in home gardens due to its large size, it is a popular choice for botanical gardens and large estates in subtropical regions. The tree prefers full sun to partial shade, consistent moisture, and well-drained soils. It is relatively slow-growing and requires space to develop its broad form.CC BY-SA 4.0