PlantaeHighest rank in taxonomy. Groups all life into domains: Animalia, Plantae, Fungi, etc.IUCN LCInternational Union for Conservation of Nature — the world authority on species extinction risk, using standardized criteria. — Least Concern — widespread and abundant; not at immediate risk of extinction.In ProgressCurrent stage of this record in the editorial review workflow. Recent Sighting
Symphonia globulifera
Boarwood
Linnaeus f., 1782
Detailed Texts Multi-lang
A prominent canopy tree reaching up to 40 meters tall, recognized by its straight cylindrical trunk, short horizontal branches, a yellowish latex that exudes when cut, and striking globose, bright red flowers adapted for avian pollination.
Added by
Anonymous Curator
Reviewed by
Under Review
Last modified by
Julia Trouin
TaxonomyBiological classification ranks placing this species within the tree of life, from Kingdom down to Genus.
PhylumRank below Kingdom. Groups organisms sharing a fundamental body plan (e.g., Chordata = vertebrates and some invertebrates).Tracheophyta
ClassRank below Phylum. Subdivides by structural traits (e.g., Mammalia, Aves, Reptilia, Insecta).Magnoliopsida
OrderRank below Class. Groups related families sharing common ancestry (e.g., Carnivora, Primates).Malpighiales
FamilyRank below Order. Groups closely related genera (e.g., Felidae = cats, Canidae = dogs).Clusiaceae
GenusRank just above Species. The first word in the two-part binomial scientific name.Symphonia
Taxonomic AuthorityThe scientist who first formally described and published this species, followed by the year of publication.Linnaeus f., 1782
Record Completeness
66%Coming soon
Ecology & StatusHow this species lives: habitat preferences, diet, behavior, population status, and role in its ecosystem.
OriginWhether the species is native (evolved here), endemic (found only here), or introduced by human activity.
Native
Population TrendDirection of change in population size over time: increasing, stable, decreasing, or unknown.
Stable
Trophic RolePosition in the food chain: producer, herbivore, carnivore, omnivore, decomposer, or parasite.
Primary Producer
Growth HabitPhysical form and structure of the plant: tree, shrub, herb, vine, epiphyte, aquatic, etc.
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Leaf TypeLeaf characteristics: deciduous (seasonal shed), evergreen, simple, compound, needle-like, etc.
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Flowering SeasonTime of year when this species typically reproduces or flowers.
Year Round
Recent SightingsWhether this species has been observed in the wild in Costa Rica within recent years.
Yes
Habitat SummaryOverview of the specific ecosystems and environments where this species is found in Costa Rica. Multi-lang
Thrives primarily in low-elevation tropical wet forests, coastal swamps, and poorly drained soils. It is highly characteristic of permanently or seasonally flooded wetlands and riparian zones across the Americas and Africa.Light & Water NeedsSunlight intensity and moisture levels this plant needs to grow and reproduce successfully. Multi-lang
Information not available in English. Help us expand this record!BehaviourDaily activity patterns, movement, territory use, foraging style, and seasonal behavioral changes. Multi-lang
Serves as a keystone ecological species in swamp forests. It blooms prolifically, producing abundant sugar-rich nectar that attracts a diverse array of specialized pollinators, primarily hummingbirds and perching birds, during periods when other food resources are scarce.Toxicity / UsesToxic compounds present and their documented effects on humans or other organisms. Multi-lang
Information not available in English. Help us expand this record!Physical Measures
Length (cm)
2500.0 - 4000.0 cm
Reproductive StructuresFlowers, fruits, and seeds — the reproductive organs and their seasonal appearance.
Flower Photos (Max 2)
No imageFruit Photos (Max 2)
No imageEvolutionary AdaptationsInherited traits and behaviors that improve the species' survival and reproduction in its specific environment. Multi-lang
Develops specialized stilt roots and loop-like pneumatophores that emerge from the waterlogged mud, enabling vital gas exchange and providing mechanical stability in unstable swamp substrates.
Produces a thick, sticky, resinous yellow medicinal latex that functions as a highly effective physical and chemical defense mechanism to seal bark wounds and deter wood-boring insects.
Main ThreatsDocumented pressures reducing the population: habitat loss, hunting, disease, climate change, and invasive species. Multi-lang
Habitat destruction driven by the drainage and conversion of freshwater forested wetlands into agricultural fields, livestock pastures, or commercial coastal developments.
Targeted selective logging in specific regions because its durable, straight-grained timber is highly valued for heavy construction, flooring, boat building, and plywood production.
Interesting FactsSurprising or notable facts that highlight what makes this species unique or ecologically important. Multi-lang
The hard yellow resin extracted from the trunk is traditionally used by indigenous communities as a natural waterproofing pitch for canoes, a durable adhesive, and a medicinal salve for skin ailments.