Crescentia cujete, commonly known as the Calabash Tree, is a small evergreen tree native to tropical Central and South America, including the West Indies. It is also found in southern Florida and has been introduced to Africa. The Calabash Tree typically grows up to 33 feet (10 meters) tall with a spreading canopy. It is notable for its smooth, green bark and large, spherical fruits that have a hard shell and can reach up to 12 inches in diameter. The tree blooms with inconspicuous yellow-green flowers that grow directly from the trunk and branches. Flowering occurs throughout the year, with the fruits taking several months to mature.

The Calabash Tree is valued for its cultural significance and practical uses. The hard-shelled fruits are traditionally used to make utensils, containers, musical instruments, and decorative items. In cultivation, it is often planted as an ornamental tree in tropical and subtropical gardens for its unique appearance and the shade it provides. The tree prefers full sun to partial shade, well-drained soils, and moderate water, making it relatively easy to maintain. It is not known for any significant disease or pest problems, but the large fruits can create litter when they fall.CC BY-SA 4.0