The tree is evergreen or semi-deciduous and produces bluish purple flowers from August to November.

Large leaves grow directly from the top of the trunk giving them an appearance similar to tree ferns.

When mature, J. copaia grows to 30 to 35 metres (98 to 115 ft) and is normally branch free for more than 50% of its height.

It is common in the Brazilian Amazon where, as a pioneer species, it colonizes gaps in the forest and areas that have been cleared.

The native people in Kurupukari, Guyana also use parts of the tree for treating ulcers and sores.