Couroupita guianensis
Couroupita guianensis Aubl.
Cannonball Tree is an extraordinary tropical tree with spectacular fragrant pink flowers growing directly on the trunk and massive spherical fruits resembling cannonballs. Sacred in Hindu and Buddhist traditions, it is one of the most unusual flowering trees in the world.
Lecythidaceae (Brazil nut family)
Year-round in tropics, most prolific during dry season
Symbolism & Meanings
Key Meanings
Perfect For
Color Meanings
Similar flowers: ceiba speciosas and eucalyptuss also share similar meanings.
Cultural Significance
Cannonball Tree holds profound sacred significance in Hindu and Buddhist traditions across South and Southeast Asia. Despite being native to South America and introduced to Asia only in the last 300 years, it has been widely misidentified as the sacred Sal tree (Shorea robusta) from ancient scriptures. Hindus revere it because the hooded flowers resemble the naga (sacred serpent) sheltering a lingam, making it sacred to Shiva. The flowers are offered in temple worship. In Buddhist countries like Sri Lanka and Thailand, it is planted at monasteries and sacred sites. The tree symbolizes the mysterious beauty of tropical nature and divine manifestation. Its explosive falling fruits, unusual cauliflory, and extraordinary fragrance create an awe-inspiring presence in any landscape.Shop Our Floral Collection
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Physical Characteristics
Natural Habitat
Growing Guide
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade
Water
High moisture needs, prefers consistently moist soil
Soil
Moist, Well-drained, Rich, Variety of soil types, Acidic to neutral (pH 5.5-7.0)
Expert Growing Tips
Requires ample space and tropical climate
Plant away from foot traffic due to falling fruits
Flowers and fruits grow directly on trunk (cauliflory)
Fruits can weigh up to 15 pounds (7 kg) and drop without warning
Fragrance strongest at night and early morning
Can produce up to 1000 flowers per day when mature
Hardy in zones 10-12
Not suitable for small gardens due to size and falling fruits
Fruits take 12-18 months to mature
Uses & Benefits
Ornamental Uses
- Botanical gardens and arboretums
- Temple and religious site plantings
- Specimen tree for large tropical landscapes
- Parks and public gardens
- Educational collections
Traditional Uses
- Antimicrobial properties demonstrated in various plant parts
- Traditional use for treating skin conditions
- Leaves used in some cultures for fever and colds
- Flowers contain compounds with antifungal activity
- Fruit pulp historically used as topical antiseptic
Disclaimer: Information provided is for educational purposes only. Consult healthcare professionals before using any plant medicinally.
Further Reading
Frequently Asked Questions about the Couroupita guianensis
Why is it called cannonball tree?
The tree is named for its large, spherical fruits that resemble cannonballs, weighing up to 15 pounds. When these heavy fruits fall from the tree, they make a loud thud and often explode on impact.
Are cannonball tree fruits edible?
While technically not poisonous, cannonball tree fruits are not commonly eaten by humans due to their strong, unpleasant odor. Animals like monkeys and peccaries consume the pulp and help disperse seeds.
Why do cannonball tree flowers smell good but fruits smell bad?
The flowers emit a sweet, pleasant fragrance to attract bee pollinators, while the fruits smell unpleasant (like rotten meat) to attract animals that will eat the pulp and disperse the seeds.
Is cannonball tree sacred?
Yes, Cannonball Tree is sacred in Hinduism and Buddhism. It is widely planted at temples throughout India and Southeast Asia, though it has been misidentified with the Sal tree from ancient scriptures.
How many flowers can a cannonball tree produce?
A mature Cannonball Tree can produce up to 1,000 flowers per day during peak blooming. The flowers emerge directly from the trunk in tangled racemes that can cover the entire lower trunk.
Available Colors
Quick Facts
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