Centrolobium sclerophyllum

Centrolobium sclerophyllum is a tree from Brazil. It belongs to the pea family, Fabaceae. Its common name is hard leaved tarara. Its home range runs from southeastern Bahia to northern Espírito Santo. It grows in Atlantic rainforest and forests with dry seasons. It grows in dense old forest. It grows more freely where open forest regrows. The ground in these sites drains well, as this tree prefers.

Garden sources list a height of about 66 feet [20 metres]. They give a spread of about 49 feet [15 metres]. Other accounts give heights of 26–98 feet [8–30 metres]. The crown grows upright, with an open form. The straight trunk is round in cross section. It can reach a width of 1.3–2.3 feet [0.4–0.7 metres]. Sources call the tree deciduous or partly deciduous. This means it may shed some or all its leaves. Young trees grow fast. Insects carry pollen to pollinate the flowers.

Grow this tree in full sun and soil that drains well. PFAF states that it cannot grow in shade. It accepts sand, loam, and clay if they drain well. The listed soil pH runs from mildly acid to mildly alkaline. Both dry and moist soil can meet its needs. Once the tree takes root, it can cope with drought. PFAF lists USDA hardiness zones 10–12. These needs suit its warm home climate and its dry seasons.

People use the tree in woodland planting and to restore forests. Its fast growth and open crown suit use as a pioneer tree. Sources suggest it may fix nitrogen from the air. They do not say for sure that it can. People cut wild trees for their useful, good-looking wood. The heavy wood has straight grain and a medium texture. Dark streaks mark the wood. Woodworkers use it for furniture, veneer, turned items, and parquet floors. They also use it for posts and railway sleepers outdoors. The wood resists insect attack. This does not prove that the whole tree resists pests.

Growers can start seeds in nursery beds with some shade. Fresh, ripe seed gives the best start. Reports say a high share of seeds sprout. Shoots appear after 20–30 days. Neither PFAF nor Useful Tropical Plants lists food or medicinal uses. Both report no known hazards, but this does not prove safety. The supplied accounts name no specific diseases or pests of live trees.