Cannonball Tree
couroupita guianensis
Also known as: ["Nagalingam","Cannonball Flower","Head-Coral Tree"]
Overview
A large tropical tree known for its distinctive cannonball-shaped fruits and large, fragrant flowers that grow directly on the trunk and branches.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","rare/collector’s item"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Ericales |
| Family: | Lecythidaceae |
| Genus: | Couroupita |
| Botanical Name: | Couroupita guianensis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in tropical or subtropical regions
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"20–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging and root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, fertile soil with organic matter; cactus or succulent mix amended with compost.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth to rejuvenate the plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily, with some afternoon shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate new plants to direct sun gradually over 1–2 weeks; protect from intense midday sun to avoid scorching; adjust placement based on outdoor vs. indoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use shade cloth in extreme heat; morning sun is ideal.
Watering
every 7–10 days during growing season, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, allow soil to dry between waterings, avoid overwatering especially in cooler months.
Soil
well-draining, fertile loam with organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral, pH 6.0–7.0.
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; test pH periodically.
Temperature
Thrives in warm temperatures, 65–85°F (18–29°C); prefers stable conditions, avoid cold drafts or sudden drops below 50°F (10°C).
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from frost; maintain humidity in dry heat.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth with balanced fertilizer
Apply fertilizer to moist soil to prevent root burn; avoid contact with stems or leaves; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seeds; stem cuttings are more reliable for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting, remove lower leaves, apply rooting hormone, plant in medium, keep moist and warm, wait for roots.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain 70–80°F (21–27°C) and high humidity.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and sand; or cactus/succulent soil.
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone for faster and more reliable root development.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; new growth in 2–4 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining soil mix, misting bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning of branches, heading back to encourage branching, removal of crossing or damaged stems.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased wood; focus on structural improvement and air circulation.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, gloves, disinfectant for tools.
Checklist
Disinfect tools, prune during dormancy, make clean cuts, remove dead/diseased wood, shape evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before the growing season starts.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if needed, place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil, water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; necessary to refresh soil and provide space for growth.
Checklist
Check root bound status, prepare new pot, trim roots if necessary, use fresh soil, water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water thoroughly, ensure drainage, adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensure water penetrates deeply to reach the root ball, allow excess water to drain completely, water in the morning to reduce evaporation and fungal risk.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage, incorporate compost for fertility, use mulch to retain moisture and improve soil structure.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or leaf drop in cold stress; wilting or scorching in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth, cause leaf drop, and may lead to root damage or death if prolonged.
Solution: Move to a warmer location, use a space heater if needed, insulate roots with mulch, avoid watering until temperatures rise.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause leaf scorch, wilting, and reduced flowering or fruiting.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat, increase watering frequency, use mulch to retain soil moisture, ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season, use correct dilution, apply to root zone, avoid foliage contact.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring and summer; dilute liquid fertilizer to half-strength monthly during growing season; reduce or stop in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCouroupita guianensis is toxic to cats, with the seeds being the most dangerous component. The alkaloids present can cause significant gastrointestinal distress and systemic effects in felines.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicThe seeds of Couroupita guianensis are highly toxic to dogs due to their alkaloid content, which can cause severe gastrointestinal upset and potential systemic toxicity. The pulp is also harmful, though less so than the seeds.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicCouroupita guianensis, commonly known as the cannonball tree, contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress if ingested. The seeds are particularly toxic due to their alkaloid content, which can lead to irritation and discomfort. The pulp, while less toxic, may still cause mild symptoms in sensitive individuals.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why are the flowers of Couroupita guianensis found on the trunk and branches?
A: This is a form of cauliflory, a common adaptation in tropical trees that allows flowers to be more accessible to pollinators without competition from foliage.
Q: Are the fruits of Couroupita guianensis edible?
A: The fruits are not typically consumed by humans due to their hard shell and unknown toxicity.
Q: How tall does Couroupita guianensis grow?
A: It can reach heights of 35–50 meters in its native habitat, making it a large and imposing tree.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Lecythidaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during growi |
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