Wikimedia Commons · Public domainRed quebracho
Schinopsis balansae
The “axe-breaker” tree whose tannin built the ports of the upper Paraguay River.
What it is
A tree with reddish, extremely hard and heavy wood, which is why it's called quebracho, “axe-breaker.” It grows in the forests of the Humid Chaco, often alongside karanda'y palm groves. Its heartwood is very rich in tannins, and from the late 19th century through the 20th its exploitation for tanning leather sustained factories and entire towns along the Paraguay River.
Did you know…?
The old tannin factories and company ports of the upper Paraguay, such as Puerto Casado, grew up around this tree.
Season
Blooms in summer, with small whitish flowers. Its winged fruits ripen in autumn.
Where
Humid Chaco forests in Presidente Hayes and Alto Paraguay, and the banks of the Paraguay River north of Concepción.
Researched and reviewed in September 2026 with 4 sources. A second reviewer checked dates, coordinates and lodging. Hours and prices may change.