Crescentia alata, commonly known as Mexican calabash, is a small, evergreen tree native to the dry forests and thorn scrub of southern Mexico and Central America. It typically grows up to 26 feet (8 meters) tall and is known for its distinctive, spherical, hard-shelled fruits that resemble cannonballs and are difficult to break open. These fruits are thought to have evolved as a defense mechanism against now-extinct megafauna. The tree’s seeds are high in protein and are traditionally used in the preparation of horchata, a refreshing beverage, in Central America. Crescentia alata has cultural significance, being associated with Mayan mythology and utilized in artisanal handicrafts.

The Mexican calabash is notable for its unusual growth habit, with flowers and fruits developing directly from the trunk and older branches, a phenomenon known as cauliflory. The flowers are yellow-green, bell-shaped, and appear throughout the year, providing a continuous display. This tree is drought-tolerant, requiring minimal water once established, and thrives in well-drained soils under full sun conditions. It is often used in tropical and subtropical landscapes for its unique appearance and cultural significance. While it is not commonly grown for its ornamental value, it can be an interesting addition to botanical collections or theme gardens. Care should be taken as the fruits can be quite heavy and may pose a hazard if the tree is planted in areas with foot traffic.CC BY-SA 4.0