Accession #: 200300247
Accession Date: 2003-07-08
Common name: Cannon-ball Tree
Family: Lecythidaceae
Synonym(s):
Country of Origin: C. & S. Trop. America
Description:
Uses: Parts used Juice, leaves, fruit. <P> Edible- Fruits are edible, but only occasionally eaten because of the unpleasant odor of the white flesh. <P>Traditional Folk Medicine- Used to treat colds and stomach aches. Juice from leaves used for skin diseases. Shamans of South America used tree parts for malaria. Fruit pulp used to disinfect wounds. Young leaves used for toothache. <P> Religious / Ritual: (1) Hindus consider it a sacred tree as the petals of the flowers resemble the sacred snake, Naga, a cobra protecting a Shiva Lingam with its hood. (2) In some parts of India, the tree is worshipped by childless couples.<P> Fragrance: Fragrant flowers can be used to scent perfumes and cosmetics.<P> Wood: (1) Hard shells of the fruit sometimes used as containers and utensils. (2) Wood used for making incense. <sup>4</sup>
IMPORTANT NOTE: Plant Uses are for informational purposes only. EEB Greenhouses assume no responsibility for adverse effects from the use of any plants referred to on this site. Always seek advice from a professional before using any plant medicinally.
USDA Zone: 9b-11
Source: Renate Bucher - Seed
Provenance:
Restrictions:
Culture: