Crescentia Cujete
Calabash tree
A remarkable tropical tree, the calabash tree produces round or elongated fruits that are used in crafts and traditions throughout the Caribbean.
Visible in the garden
's Species Profile
The fruits of this tree, known as calabashes, are used in local handicrafts. 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:
Dry to humid tropical regions and gardens
Class:
Dicots
Order:
Lamiaceae
A very useful tree in tropical agriculture
The calabash tree is a tropical tree known for its fruits with very hard shells. Calabashes are often spherical but can also be slightly elongated. As with the cacao tree, the flowers appear directly on the trunk and large branches. This phenomenon is called cauliflory.
Once dried, the gourds are used to make handicrafts. They are used to create containers, decorative items, 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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