Tonka Bean

Dipteryx odorata

Native to:
Brazil, French Guiana, Guyana, Suriname, Venezuela

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Taxonomy

Division:
Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants
Family:
Fabaceae
Genus:
Dipteryx
Species:
Dipteryx odorata
USDA Symbol:
DIOD2

Growth Characteristics

Height:
3000 cm
Light Requirements:
Full Sun
Drought Tolerance:
Low
Bloom Months:
mar,apr,may
Bloom Colors:
purple, pink

Garden & Ecology Notes

Wildlife Value:
birds, mammals
Fragrant:
Yes

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:
rich, well-drained loamy soil
pH:
5.5 - 7.0 (slightly acidic to neutral)
Drainage:
excellent drainage required
Moisture:
consistently moist
Notes:
prefers fertile soils in tropical regions

Propagation & Germination

Scarification:
Seed coat scarification required before sowing
Germination Time:
30–90 days
Notes:
Seeds require scarification (nicking or hot water treatment) to break physical dormancy; germination occurs in warm, moist conditions.