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cannonball tree

Scientific Name: Couroupita

Family: Lecythidaceae

Category: Dicot

Growth:

Duration:

Other Names:

       

Cannonball Tree (Coupita guianensis)

The Cannonball Tree, scientifically known as Coupita guianensis, is a fascinating and remarkable tree that has captivated botanists and nature enthusiasts alike. It's known for its unique appearance and intriguing cultural significance.

Considerations for Pets

  • The plant produces large, spherical, woody fruits.

Considerations for Children

  • The plant produces large, spherical, woody fruits that resemble cannonballs.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Scientific Name: Coupita guianensis Aubl.
  • Family: Lecythidaceae (Brazil nut family)
  • Synonyms/Alternative Names: Mentions Coupita venezuelensis.

Common Names

  • Cannonball Tree
  • Sal Tree
  • Ayauma Tree
  • Bala de Canon (Spanish)
  • Macacarecuia (Spanish)
  • Boskalebas
  • Coco de Mono
  • Abric de Macaco
  • Castanha de Macaco
  • Cuia
  • Calabasse Colin (French)
  • Arbol Santo (Spanish)
  • Bala De Can (Spanish)
  • Granadillo (Spanish)
  • Mamey Hediondo (Spanish)
  • Nagalinga (Hindi, Kannada)
  • Tope Gola (Hindi)
  • Lingada Mara (Kannada)
  • Nagalingam (Kannada)
  • Kaman Gola (Bengali)
  • Nagalinga (Bengali)
  • Nagakeshar (Bengali)
  • Kailashpati (Marathi/Gujrati)

Distribution and Habitat

  • Native to northeastern South America, Central and South America, and the Amazon rainforest.
  • Introduced to Malaysia from India, Sri Lanka, Guiana, and North Eastern South America.
  • Commonly found in tropical regions, including subtropical and tropical botanical gardens.

Morphological Characteristics

  • Large deciduous tree, reaching up to 75 feet (approximately 23 meters) or 60 feet (approximately 18 meters) in height.
  • Leaves are simple, up to 6 inches long, with serrate (toothed) margins.
  • Notable for its large, spherical, woody fruit that resembles a cannonball.
  • Fragrant reddish-pink flowers that develop into the large woody fruits on the trunk and main branches.

Cultural Significance

  • Sacred in India, symbolizing the sanctified phallus and the serpent protector of elemental sexual energy.
  • Held in high regard by the shamans of the Amazon region.