PlantaeHighest rank in taxonomy. Groups all life into domains: Animalia, Plantae, Fungi, etc.IUCN LCInternational Union for Conservation of Nature — the world authority on species extinction risk, using standardized criteria. — Least Concern — widespread and abundant; not at immediate risk of extinction.In ProgressCurrent stage of this record in the editorial review workflow. Recent Sighting
Hura crepitans
Sandbox Tree
L., 1753
Detailed Texts Multi-lang
A massive deciduous canopy tree growing up to 40 meters tall, easily recognized by its pale smooth bark densely studded with formidable, cone-shaped prickles, wide-spreading crown with heart-shaped leaves, and pumpkin-shaped seed pods that explode violently when ripe.
Added by
Anonymous Curator
Reviewed by
Under Review
Last modified by
Julia Trouin
TaxonomyBiological classification ranks placing this species within the tree of life, from Kingdom down to Genus.
PhylumRank below Kingdom. Groups organisms sharing a fundamental body plan (e.g., Chordata = vertebrates and some invertebrates).Tracheophyta
ClassRank below Phylum. Subdivides by structural traits (e.g., Mammalia, Aves, Reptilia, Insecta).Magnoliopsida
OrderRank below Class. Groups related families sharing common ancestry (e.g., Carnivora, Primates).Malpighiales
FamilyRank below Order. Groups closely related genera (e.g., Felidae = cats, Canidae = dogs).Euphorbiaceae
GenusRank just above Species. The first word in the two-part binomial scientific name.Hura
Taxonomic AuthorityThe scientist who first formally described and published this species, followed by the year of publication.L., 1753
Record Completeness
66%Coming soon
Ecology & StatusHow this species lives: habitat preferences, diet, behavior, population status, and role in its ecosystem.
OriginWhether the species is native (evolved here), endemic (found only here), or introduced by human activity.
Native
Population TrendDirection of change in population size over time: increasing, stable, decreasing, or unknown.
Stable
Trophic RolePosition in the food chain: producer, herbivore, carnivore, omnivore, decomposer, or parasite.
Primary Producer
Growth HabitPhysical form and structure of the plant: tree, shrub, herb, vine, epiphyte, aquatic, etc.
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Leaf TypeLeaf characteristics: deciduous (seasonal shed), evergreen, simple, compound, needle-like, etc.
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Flowering SeasonTime of year when this species typically reproduces or flowers.
Year Round
Recent SightingsWhether this species has been observed in the wild in Costa Rica within recent years.
Yes
Habitat SummaryOverview of the specific ecosystems and environments where this species is found in Costa Rica. Multi-lang
Thrives in tropical moist, wet, and semi-deciduous primary forests, frequently occupying well-drained lowland alluvial plains, riverbanks, and disturbed secondary successions. It thrives at elevations from sea level up to 1,000 meters.Light & Water NeedsSunlight intensity and moisture levels this plant needs to grow and reproduce successfully. Multi-lang
Information not available in English. Help us expand this record!BehaviourDaily activity patterns, movement, territory use, foraging style, and seasonal behavioral changes. Multi-lang
Serves as a vital structural component of wet lowland ecosystems. Its broad, expansive canopy provides significant shade gradients, stabilizes riverbanks against heavy water erosion, and functions as an aerial highway for large arboreal species.Toxicity / UsesToxic compounds present and their documented effects on humans or other organisms. Multi-lang
Information not available in English. Help us expand this record!Physical Measures
Length (cm)
2000.0 - 4000.0 cm
Reproductive StructuresFlowers, fruits, and seeds — the reproductive organs and their seasonal appearance.
Flower Photos (Max 2)
No imageFruit Photos (Max 2)
No imageEvolutionary AdaptationsInherited traits and behaviors that improve the species' survival and reproduction in its specific environment. Multi-lang
The entire trunk, branches, and major limbs are densely armored with sharp, woody, cone-shaped prickles that act as an insurmountable physical deterrent against climbing herbivorous mammals and destructive wood-boring pests.
Exudes a highly toxic, caustic, milky latex rich in phorbol esters from all tissues when damaged, protecting the tree from herbivory and structurally sealing deep cambium wounds.
Main ThreatsDocumented pressures reducing the population: habitat loss, hunting, disease, climate change, and invasive species. Multi-lang
Localized over-exploitation for its light timber (known commercially as possumwood), which is heavily sought after for lightweight plywood construction, decorative veneers, and crate packing.
Habitat reduction caused by the clear-cutting of lowland alluvial plains for cattle grazing and modern high-density agricultural infrastructure, which reduces seedling recruitment sites.
Interesting FactsSurprising or notable facts that highlight what makes this species unique or ecologically important. Multi-lang
Nicknamed the 'Dynamite Tree' due to explosive explosive dehiscence; its dried, pumpkin-like capsules split open with a loud, gunshot-like crack, launching hard seeds at speeds up to 240 kilometers per hour.