Couroupita guianensis

Couroupita guianensis

Also commonly called Cannon Ball Tree is a member of Lecythidaceae family same as Brazil and Paradise nut. It is deciduous and a native to the tropical forests of Central and South America.  This species is sometimes harvested from the wild for local use as a food, medicine and source of materials. A very ornamental tree, especially when cloaked in flowers or the large fruits which are produced on the trunk. The hard shells are used to make containers and utensils. This tree is a site to see while walking the garden path when it is in bloom. The pink flowers are real stunners!