Machaerium fulvovenosum is a semideciduous tree with a narrow, elongate crown; it can grow 4 - 15 metres tall. The normally crooked bole can be 15 - 25cm in diameter[
]. At times the plant can become more shrub-like with branches that can scramble into the surrounding vegetation.
The tree is sometimes harvested from the wild for local use of its wood.
S. America - eastern Brazil.
Atlantic rainforest, in both dense primary forest and the more open, secondary formations, in valley bottoms and by rivers; favouring moist, fertile, humus-rich, clayey soils[
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Succeeds in full sun to moderate shade[
]. Prefers a moist, fertile, humus-rich, clayey soil[
Although many species within the family Fabaceae have a symbiotic relationship with soil bacteria, this species is said to be devoid of such a relationship and therefore does not fix atmospheric nitrogen[
The wood is medium-textured, cross-grained, very heavy, hard to cut, with good mechanical properties and durable. It is used in general construction, lathe work, light cabinet making, cart wheels, bearings and various external purposes such as fence posts and stakes[
Seed - best sown as soon as it is ripe in a partly shaded position in a nursery seedbed. A high germination rate can usually be expected, with the seed sprouting within 14 - 21 days[
]. When the seedlings are 5 - 6cm tall, pot them up into individual containers and they should be ready to plant out 5 - 6 months later[
Like many species within the family Fabaceae, once they have been dried for storage the seeds of this species may benefit from scarification before sowing in order to speed up and improve germination. This can usually be done by pouring a small amount of nearly boiling water on the seeds (being careful not to cook them!) and then soaking them for 12 - 24 hours in warm water. By this time they should have imbibed moisture and swollen - if they have not, then carefully make a nick in the seedcoat (being careful not to damage the embryo) and soak for a further 12 hours before sowing[
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