Crescentia cujete
Crescentia cujete
Crescentia cujete, also known as the calabash tree, is a species of flowering plant that belongs to the family Bignoniaceae. It is native to Central and South America, and is also found in the Caribbean. The tree is known for its large, round fruits, which are often used to make musical instruments, utensils, and containers.
Pronunciation
Crescentia cujete is pronounced as kres-SEN-sha koo-JET-ee.
Etymology
The genus name Crescentia is derived from the Latin word 'crescere', which means 'to grow'. The species name cujete is believed to have originated from the indigenous Taino language of the Caribbean, where it was used to refer to the tree's gourd-like fruits.
Description
The Crescentia cujete tree grows up to 10 meters in height. It has simple, opposite leaves and produces large, greenish-yellow flowers. The tree's most distinctive feature is its large, round fruits, which can reach up to 25 cm in diameter. The fruits are hard and woody when mature, and are often used to make various items such as bowls, cups, and musical instruments.
Related Terms
- Bignoniaceae: The plant family to which Crescentia cujete belongs. It includes about 800 species of trees, shrubs, and vines.
- Calabash: A term used to refer to the fruits of Crescentia cujete, as well as other plants with similar fruits.
- Taino: An indigenous people of the Caribbean, who are believed to have named the Crescentia cujete tree.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Crescentia cujete
- Wikipedia's article - Crescentia cujete
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