Water
Provide consistent moisture, especially during establishment and dry periods. Avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot.
Also known as Guiraro · Palo Coca · Palo Mortero
Pterogyne nitens, commonly known as Cocal, is a large South American tree prized for its durable timber and ornamental appeal.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Prefers full sun to partial shade.
100% intensity
Protect young trees from intense midday sun.
Water regularly, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings.
100% intensity
Reduce watering in cooler months.
Prefers well-draining, fertile soil. Tolerates a range of soil types but avoids waterlogged conditions.
50% intensity
Thrives in warm temperatures.
100% intensity
Ideal range is 18-25 °C.
Outdoor
50% intensity
Fertilize in spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer.
100% intensity
Avoid excessive nitrogen.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Provide consistent moisture, especially during establishment and dry periods. Avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot.
Prune to shape the tree and remove dead or crossing branches. Best done in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
Easily propagated from seeds sown in spring. Cuttings can also be taken, but germination from seed is more common.
Mature trees generally do not require repotting. Young plants in containers should be repotted every 2-3 years into a slightly larger pot.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Cocal (Pterogyne nitens)
Where Cocal (Pterogyne nitens) is found

Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Pterogyne |
| Species | Pterogyne nitens |
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data