A tree native to tropical regions of Central and South America, particularly prevalent in Colombia, Panama, Ecuador, and Venezuela, where it thrives in seasonally dry tropical forests and lowland areas, often standing out during the dry season when its bright yellow trumpet-shaped flowers bloom in dramatic contrast to its bare branches. Known for its remarkably hard wood, it has historically been used for construction, especially for crafting durable items like furniture, decking, and flooring, due to its resistance to termites and rot; the wood’s density has earned it a high commercial value, and it is sometimes referred to as "ironwood" for its strength and durability. These trees are commonly grown as ornamental plants in gardens and urban landscapes across Latin America and in some regions, it has also been introduced as part of reforestation efforts.