Copal

Basic Information

Common Name: Copal
Scientific Name: Bursera bipinnata
Native Habitat: Native to Mexico (specifically, it is widespread from central Mexico south to Guatemala) and parts of Central America, growing in dry tropical forests, thorn forests, and scrubland, often in rocky, well-drained soils.

History / Discovery / Cultivator

The history of *Bursera bipinnata* is intrinsically linked to the ancient and enduring use of its resin, known as copal, throughout Mesoamerica. Long before European botanical classification, indigenous cultures, including the Maya and Aztec civilizations, revered copal for its aromatic properties and spiritual significance. Copal resin, derived from several *Bursera* species including *B. bipinnata*, was a cornerstone of religious ceremonies, used as incense in temples and during rituals to communicate with the divine, purify spaces, and make offerings. Its smoke was believed to carry prayers to the heavens and ward off evil spirits. Archaeological evidence, such as hardened resin found in ancient offering bowls and censers, attests to its long history of use, dating back thousands of years.

Beyond its spiritual role, copal also found practical applications. It was used in traditional medicine for treating various ailments, including headaches, toothaches, and respiratory issues. The resin was also utilized as an adhesive and a sealant. The Spanish conquistadors, upon arriving in the Americas, quickly noted the prevalence and importance of copal, sometimes referring to it as “Mexican incense,” and it became one of the many new resources observed during the colonial era.

Botanical classification of the *Bursera* genus, which encompasses numerous species of resinous trees and shrubs often referred to collectively as “copal trees,” began much later within the Western scientific framework. Early European botanists encountered these plants and their diverse uses. The formal scientific description of *Bursera bipinnata* came through the work of botanists cataloging the flora of the Americas. While a single “discoverer” in the Western sense is hard to pinpoint given its widespread traditional use, its integration into scientific literature was part of the broader effort to understand and classify the New World’s biodiversity.

Cultivation of *Bursera bipinnata* historically focused primarily on resin extraction. Indigenous communities developed sustainable methods for tapping the trees, carefully making incisions in the bark to allow the milky sap to ooze out and harden into the fragrant lumps known as copal. This traditional harvesting continues in many areas today. As an ornamental plant, *Bursera bipinnata* is less widely cultivated than some other species, but it holds interest among collectors of caudiciforms and plants adapted to arid environments due to its often swollen trunk base and attractive peeling bark. Its popularity in horticulture is relatively recent compared to its ancient cultural significance, driven by interest in unique botanical forms and drought-tolerant landscaping. Modern cultivation efforts aim to understand its specific horticultural needs for propagation and growth outside its native dry tropical habitats. The narrative of *Bursera bipinnata*, therefore, is a blend of deep cultural heritage rooted in its resin\’s spiritual use and its more recent appreciation in the botanical and horticultural worlds.

Plant Care Summary

Botanical Insights

Adaptations

*Bursera bipinnata* exhibits several key adaptations that allow it to thrive in the dry, tropical environments where it is native. One significant adaptation is its deciduous nature, particularly in response to drought or cooler temperatures. During dry spells or the cooler season, the tree will shed its leaves to conserve water, minimizing transpiration. Water is then stored in its trunk and branches, which are often somewhat succulent, especially the caudex-like base found in mature specimens grown in rocky conditions. The distinctive peeling bark, typical of many *Bursera* species, may also serve a protective function against excessive sun exposure or pests, and it allows for gas exchange. Perhaps the most notable adaptation is the production of aromatic resin, copal. This resin is exuded when the bark is damaged and acts as a defense mechanism against herbivores and insects, deterring them with its strong scent and sticky texture, while also helping to seal wounds and prevent infection.

Propagation Methods

*Bursera bipinnata* can be propagated through several methods, with stem cuttings being one of the most common and relatively straightforward. Cuttings should be taken from healthy, mature stems and allowed to callus (dry and heal over) for several days or even weeks before being placed in a well-draining soil mix. Bottom heat can aid rooting. While cuttings are reliable, they may not develop the prominent caudex (swollen base) as readily as plants grown from seed, especially if grown in nutrient-rich, regularly watered conditions. Seed propagation is another viable method, although seeds may require specific conditions (like stratification or scarification, depending on the source and freshness) and germination can be slow or sporadic. Plants grown from seed are more likely to develop the characteristic caudex. Grafting is also sometimes used, particularly for integrating desirable forms onto hardy rootstock, though it is less common for this species compared to some other caudiciforms.

Toxicology

Based on available information and traditional uses, *Bursera bipinnata* is generally considered to have low toxicity to humans and common household pets like cats and dogs. The resin (copal) has a long history of traditional medicinal use, although ingestion of large quantities of raw resin or plant parts is not advisable and could potentially cause mild digestive upset due to its chemical composition. The primary concern with this plant is not systemic poisoning but rather potential mild irritation if plant sap comes into contact with sensitive skin or mucous membranes, although this is less frequently reported than with some other resinous plants. Given its history of use as incense, inhalation of the smoke should ideally be in well-ventilated areas, especially for individuals with respiratory sensitivities. However, compared to many common houseplants, *Bursera bipinnata* poses very little risk of serious poisoning.

Common Problems

Pests:

• Spider mites (especially in dry, indoor environments)
• Mealybugs (often hide in crevices of bark or branches)
• Scale insects

Diseases:

• Root rot (most common problem, caused by overwatering, especially in poor drainage)
• Fungal leaf spots (less common, usually related to excessive humidity or poor air circulation)

Other:

• Leaf drop (likely cause: dormancy induced by cool temperatures or lack of water)
• Lack of caudex development (likely cause: growing from cutting rather than seed, or conditions are too wet/fertile promoting top growth over root/base swelling)
• Slow growth (likely cause: natural growth habit, insufficient light, or dormant period)

Rarity & Value

Rarity:

*Bursera bipinnata* is not considered endangered in its native habitat and is relatively widespread. However, specimens are not commonly found in standard nurseries outside its native range. Its rarity in cultivation is primarily due to it being less popular as a typical ornamental than common houseplants, its specific needs (requiring well-draining soil and warm temperatures), and the fact that larger, more mature specimens with significant caudex development take many years to grow. Obtaining large, old, wild-collected specimens is restricted by conservation laws, making well-grown cultivated examples more desirable. Specific desirable forms or provenances might be considered rarer among collectors.

Value:

The market value of *Bursera bipinnata* varies significantly based on several factors. Size and age are major determinants; larger, older plants, particularly those that have developed a substantial and attractive caudex (swollen base), command much higher prices than small seedlings or cuttings. The form and aesthetics of the plant, including the shape of the caudex, the branching structure, and the quality of the peeling bark, also influence value. Provenance can be a factor among collectors interested in specific regional varieties or legally sourced plants. As a plant primarily appealing to enthusiasts of caudiciforms, succulents, or rare botanicals, its value is often dictated by collector demand and the relatively limited supply of well-grown, mature specimens outside of specialist nurseries.