Crescentia Cujete
Calabash tree
A remarkable tropical tree, the calabash tree produces round or elongated fruits used in Antillean crafts and traditions.
Visible in the garden
's Species Profile
The fruits of this tree, known as calabashes, are used in local crafts. In particular, they are used to make everyday objects.
Family:
Bignoniaceae
Geographical origin:
Tropical America and the Caribbean
Size:
4 to 10 meters
Flowering:
All year round, with varying peaks
Habitat:
Tropical areas ranging from dry to humid, and gardens
Class:
Dicots
Order:
Lamiaceae
A very useful tree in tropical regions
The calabash tree is a tropical tree known for its very hard nuts. Calabashes are often spherical but can also be slightly elongated. Like the cocoa tree, its flowers grow directly on the trunk and large branches. This phenomenon is called cauliflory.
Once dried, calabashes are used to make crafts. They are used to create containers, decorative objects, or lamps. This tree thrives in sunny areas and well-drained soil. It is one of the traditional useful plants of tropical regions.
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