Cannon Ball Tree

Photo credit: Pauline Tay

The Cannon Ball Tree (Couroupita guianensis) produces fragrant inflorescences that last for a day. These inflorescences are borne on thick tangled branches that grow up to 3 m long and cover the lower trunk, especially in older trees.

At maturity, the fruit drops on the ground with a loud thud baring its seeds suspended in pulp.  As opposed to the pleasant-smelling flowers, the fruits release a repugnant odour.

A medium-sized tree that grows up to about 25 m tall under cultivation, its leaves are smooth to slightly velvety and arranged spirally at the ends of the branches. This species is semi-deciduous, shedding its leaves once to twice a year, usually in response to dry weather.