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Crescentia

Crescentia

9.9
A tropical American tree with large gourd-like fruit used to make bowls
  • noun
  • /krɛˈsɛnʃə/
  • Specialized
translation icon : Crescentia
  • Due to its unique gourd-shaped fruit, Crescentia is often called the calabash tree.

Examples

  • Crescentia trees are notable for their distinctive gourd-like fruits and spreading branches.

  • The fruit of Crescentia trees is used to make traditional utensils in some cultures.

  • Botanists have documented several species within the Crescentia genus.

  • The Crescentia tree is known for its unique shape.

  • Many Crescentias can be found in tropical regions.

  • The fruit of the Crescentia tree is commonly used in local crafts and traditional dishes.

  • Many species of Crescentia are native to the Caribbean and Central America.

Compounds

Crescentia cujete
  • Specialized
9.9

A tropical evergreen tree that makes large round hard fruits used as containers

Surface Forms

Crescentia singular
Crescentias plural

Etymology

Crescentia gets its name from the Latin root cresc- meaning 'to grow', the same root in the word crescent which shows the 'growing' moon. A helpful way to remember this tree genus is to picture its rounded, gourd-like fruits and spreading branches, so the name links to the plant's growth and shape.