This word refers to a tree known as Quebracho in Spanish. It name ends with an i with a cross through it, representing a deep sound. In different dialects it has different endings and that makes its origin remains as a mystery.

Urundei is a medium tall tree its wood resists an impact of the axe, protected by a thick bark that keeps it safe from fire and others elements, animals or people that could harm it. Its toughness gives it a beauty that is hard to explain. It is not a spreading tree, but stands straight and small in numbers scatters over a large area. Its flowers are rarely noticed.

Urundei thrives in solitary places, far from creeks and great rivers.  It survives in dry ground.  Nor does it feel the strong cold winds of winter.  It holds its branches firmly against the brilliant blue sky of the Chaco, creating refreshing shade in a dry land. As firewood, it smolders long warming those who are cold, and burns by itself.  As wood, it is alive with color and shine, keeping its beauty after death. In all time it was harvested, sometimes for tannin to cure hides and for train tracks rails. Because of this it was nearly exterminated.

Its seeds latency permitted it to wait until conditions improved and after some time Urundei has been reborn.

Chaqueños (people from the Chaco) know Urundei well. They feel it, they hear it, and they dream of it, which creates a meaning beyond what outsiders can know.

Urundei is the heart of the Gran Chaco.