C. odorata is often noted as a native of tropical Central and South America, from Mexico and the Caribbean to Brazil; however, the exact northern and southern limits of its native range remain uncertain and are likely to also include some regions outside of the tropics. USDA-ARS (2007) include as part of the native range Texas and Florida (USA), and all South American countries except Chile and Uruguay, and records from Córdoba in Argentina suggest latitudinal limits of approximately 30° North and South. Gautier (1992b) included Uruguay as part of the native range and USA populations as introduced, neither being confirmed in later studies.