Commiphora erythraea (Ehrenb.) Engl.
Eritrean myrrh
Shrub or small tree from the Red Sea region, known as Eritrean myrrh or Eritrean opoponax. Produces a high-quality aromatic resin used in perfumery, incense, and traditional medicine of Eritrea, Ethiopia, and Yemen. The green-grey succulent bark is characteristic. The epithet 'erythraea' refers to the Red Sea (Erythraeum Mare in classical Latin). One of the historical sources of biblical incense.
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Overview
| Category | Classification |
|---|---|
| Family | Burseraceae |
| Genus | Commiphora |
| Growth Habit | Shrub or small tree 2–5 m tall, branching from the base. Trunk with well-developed succulent bark, green-grey to yellow in colour. Branches spiny. Seasonally deciduous. |
| Conservation Status | Least Concern (LC) – IUCN. However, over-tapping of resin in some populations is a growing threat. |
| pH Target | 6.5–8.0 |
| Type | Sandy, calcareous, stony |
Origin & Habitat
Requirements
Soil & Substrate
Type
Sandy, calcareous, stony
groups Beneficial Associations
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Propagation Strategy
C
W
Every 3–5 years in spring.
Low-nitrogen mineral fertilizer (cactus type) diluted by half, once in April and once in June. No fertilizer for the rest of the year.
Uses & Applications
Precautions / Toxicity
Pure resin can cause contact dermatitis in sensitive individuals. Internal use only under supervision. Not recommended during pregnancy.
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"Traditional source of biblical opoponax; some authors partially synonymise it with C. guidottii for the fragrant Somali resins. The taxonomic delimitation between C. erythraea and the C. guidottii complex warrants molecular revision."
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Scientific Integrity
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Sources
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Discussion
Disclaimer
This species record is provided for educational and informational purposes only. Jardín Roca Negra does not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of the data. Content is community-curated and may be subject to revision; it should not replace advice from a qualified botanist. This species may be toxic, invasive, or subject to legal restrictions — verify before handling or cultivating. Jardín Roca Negra accepts no liability for any harm arising from reliance on this information. Images are reproduced under Creative Commons or equivalent free licenses; credits are noted below each image.