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
Crescentia alata
Calabash Tree
Kunth, 1818
Detailed Texts Multi-lang
Small to medium-sized tree with an open crown and tortuous branches. Its leaves are cross-shaped and its fruits are globose, with a very hard, woody shell.
Added by
Anonymous Curator
Reviewed by
Under Review
Last modified by
Julia Trouin
Other Names (Global)Regional and multilingual names used for this species across different countries and languages.
Jicaro de cerroGuaje cirial
Mexican calabashTecomateTaxonomyBiological 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).Lamiales
FamilyRank below Order. Groups closely related genera (e.g., Felidae = cats, Canidae = dogs).Bignoniaceae
GenusRank just above Species. The first word in the two-part binomial scientific name.Crescentia
Taxonomic AuthorityThe scientist who first formally described and published this species, followed by the year of publication.Kunth, 1818
Record Completeness
84%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.
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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.
Dry Season
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
Inhabits tropical dry forests and savannas, often in heavy clay soils. It is very resistant to drought and high temperatures.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
Exhibits cauliflory (flowers on the trunk). Its flowers have a strong odor and are mainly pollinated by bats at night.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)
600.0 - 1200.0 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
Indehiscent fruits with an extremely hard shell (woody epicarp) to protect the seeds.
Flowers with nocturnal anthesis and dark coloring, adapted for chiropterophily (bat pollination).
Main ThreatsDocumented pressures reducing the population: habitat loss, hunting, disease, climate change, and invasive species. Multi-lang
Conversion of dry forests into intensive pastures, although the tree is respected for its artisanal value.
Overexploitation of fruits in some areas for the manufacture of handicrafts.
Interesting FactsSurprising or notable facts that highlight what makes this species unique or ecologically important. Multi-lang
The hard shells are used to make traditional containers called jícaras or huacales.
The seeds, once roasted and ground, are used to prepare the traditional drink known as horchata de jícaro.