Dinizia excelsa is the Amazon rainforest tree known as angelim-vermelho and has reached about 88 metres in height. It is one of the tallest known trees in the Amazon and can rise far above the surrounding canopy.
The species is native to tropical South America, particularly the Brazilian Amazon and neighbouring regions. Its enormous trunk and height allow it to access strong sunlight above most competing trees. Like other emergent trees, it provides elevated habitat and influences the structure of the forest.
Height records can differ depending on measurement methods and whether the tree is standing or has fallen. Dinizia excelsa is sometimes confused with kapok, another very tall tropical tree, but kapok belongs to the genus Ceiba and has a different form and family history.