The Yamila trees of Zamora-Chinchipe Ecuador

One of the must-see natural local flora of southern Ecuador are the Yamila trees (scientific name Poulsenia armata or P.armata). Not far from Loja, in the Amazonian province of Zamora-Chinchipe, stand these 25 to 40 meter (80 to 130 feet) tall árboles with fascinating planular roots.

Range of Poulsenia armata trees

Scientists have studied the DNA and determined the trees were already growing from Panama to Peru before the Andes rose, meaning the species has been around for at least 45 million years. 

The trees bear small fruits (40mm or 1.5 inches) which often simply fall and rot on the ground, or are eaten by bats who help in dispersing the seeds, or sometimes are foraged and sold in local markets. Seeds can germinate quickly, in less than 30 days, but seldom grow beyond a few feet in height unless they are in a location away from the parent tree which robs moisture from the seedlings.

In earlier times, indigenous people harvested the thick fibrous inner bark which can be beaten into a coarse fabric and used for hammocks, blankets, and clothing. The wood is not very durable and can be difficult to plane smooth. It also has a high concentration of silica which rapidly dulls tools used to try and work it. As a result, it is mostly used for rough construction and for crates or pallets rather than for finely finished products.

Maybe the best "use" for these trees is to simply allow them to grow so we can enjoy their unique beauty? They make great backdrops for selfies!

Life in Loja offers tours in both Loja and Zamora-Chinchipe provinces. If you would like to see a Yamila tree "up close and personal" then contact us to participate in a group excursion or to arrange a customized private tour to suit your needs. The trees await.

Life in Loja is dedicated to exploring all things Ecuadorian in this special region at the end of the Andean rainbow. If you’d like to explore Loja and many of our other cultural and natural wonders, or if you would like more information about visiting or relocating in Loja, contact us by email, or phone/WhatsApp at 593-098-674-5994.

Life In Loja is registered under Ecuador’s department of intellectual rights as of 2022.