Bulnesia sarmientoi is a Dry Chaco endemic, occuring in:
This tree grows in the xerophytic forests of the Dry Chaco region.
The forests of the Dry Chaco are very dense, spiny and not easily penetrable.
The overall forest structure consists of an 8–12 metre tree layer (up to 15–17 metres depending on species composition), a 3–8 metre shrub layer and a scarce understory, with dominant xerophytic species (Aspidosperma, Astronium, Schinopsis, Ceiba, Bulnesia).
Thorny microphylls or leafless plants (Prosopis, Acacia), and cacti (Cereus, Stetsonia) are common, as well as species that develop tubercles for water accumulation (Jacaratia)
According to the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List, Bulnesia sarmientoi is listed under the lower risk/conservation dependent category.
It is also listed in the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) appendix II, for species that are not necessarily threatened with extinction at the time of assessment, but may become so unless trade is closely controlled.