Article · Wikipedia archive · Last revised Jun 18, 2026

Protium copal

Protium copal, commonly known as the copal tree, is a species of tree endemic to Mexico and Central America. It is found in wet tropical forests, preferring heavy shade. It grows to 30 metres (98 ft) in height and has long leathery leaves. The fruits are (2–3 cm) and smooth, with a single pit.

Last revised
Jun 18, 2026
Read time
≈ 1 min
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Citations
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Source
Wikipedia ↗
Protium copal
Libellus de medicinalibus Indorum herbis f. 56v detail copal
Scientific classification Edit this classification
Kingdom: Plantae
Clade: Embryophytes
Clade: Tracheophytes
Clade: Spermatophytes
Clade: Angiosperms
Clade: Eudicots
Clade: Rosids
Order: Sapindales
Family: Burseraceae
Genus: Protium
Species:
P. copal
Binomial name
Protium copal

Protium copal, commonly known as the copal tree, is a species of tree endemic to Mexico and Central America. It is found in wet tropical forests, preferring heavy shade.1 It grows to 30 metres (98 ft) in height and has long leathery leaves.1 The fruits are (2–3 cm) and smooth, with a single pit.1

The dried sap of the tree is known as copal. It is commonly used as an incense, similar to frankincense.1

References

References

  1. Harris, Kate (2009). Trees of Belize. Belize: Bay Cedar Publishing. pp. 47–48. ISBN 9780992758202.