Water
Crabwood prefers consistently moist soil but not waterlogged. Water deeply when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry. Reduce watering slightly during cooler, dormant periods.
Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot, especially in containers.
Also known as Bullet Wood · Crab Oil · Crab Oil Tree
Crabwood (Carapa guianensis) is a large tropical tree known for its durable wood and medicinal properties. It produces a valuable oil from its seeds.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Moderate to High
75% intensity
Prefers bright, indirect light or partial shade. Protect from intense direct sun.
Moderate
50% intensity
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Moderate to High
75% intensity
Thrives in warm temperatures, ideally between 20-30°C. Protect from cold drafts.
Low to Moderate
25% intensity
Fertilize annually in spring with a balanced fertilizer.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
None
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Crabwood prefers consistently moist soil but not waterlogged. Water deeply when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry. Reduce watering slightly during cooler, dormant periods.
Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot, especially in containers.
Pruning is generally minimal for Carapa guianensis, mainly for shaping or removing dead/damaged branches. If necessary, prune in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
Make clean cuts to promote healing and prevent disease.
Carapa guianensis can be propagated from seeds, which require a period of stratification and consistent moisture. Cuttings are also possible but can be challenging.
Success is higher with semi-hardwood cuttings taken in summer.
Repot young Crabwood plants every 2-3 years, or when root-bound. Use a well-draining potting mix. For mature trees, repotting is rarely necessary unless container-grown and showing signs of stress or stunted growth.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Crabwood (Carapa guianensis)
Where Crabwood (Carapa guianensis) is found

Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Sapindales |
| Family | Meliaceae |
| Genus | Carapa |
| Species | Carapa guianensis |
Similar in genus Carapa
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data