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Description
Hura Crepitans, also known as the Sandbox Tree or Dynamite Tree, is a large tropical tree found in the Amazon Rainforest and other parts of Central and South America. It is known for its explosive seed pods that can launch their seeds up to 100 feet away, making it a dangerous tree to stand near. The tree has a unique appearance with a rough, spiky bark and large, glossy leaves that can grow up to 12 inches long. It is also known for its medicinal properties and has been used by indigenous peoples for centuries to treat a variety of ailments.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Magnoliophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malpighiales |
| Family | Euphorbiaceae |
| Genus | Hura |
Appearance
The Hura Crepitans tree can grow up to 160 feet tall and has a trunk diameter of up to 6 feet. Its bark is rough and spiky, with large, woody spikes that can grow up to 6 inches long. The leaves are large and glossy, with a deep green color and a distinctive veining pattern. They can grow up to 12 inches long and 6 inches wide. The tree produces small white flowers that are followed by the infamous explosive seed pods. The pods are round, brown, and covered in spikes, and can grow up to 6 inches in diameter. When they mature, they explode with a loud bang, launching their seeds up to 100 feet away.
Care Guide
The Hura Crepitans tree is a tropical plant that requires warm temperatures and high humidity. It should be watered regularly to keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged. Fertilizer should be applied once a month during the growing season to promote healthy growth. The tree prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It should be planted in a spot that receives full sun to partial shade. The tree is hardy in USDA zones 10-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Hura Crepitans tree is relatively pest and disease-resistant, but it can be susceptible to fungal infections if it is over-watered or planted in poorly-draining soil. It may also be attacked by scale insects or spider mites. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
The Hura Crepitans tree is native to the Amazon Rainforest and other parts of Central and South America. It prefers tropical climates with high humidity and rainfall. The tree is often found growing in open areas, such as savannas and riverbanks. It is also commonly found in disturbed areas, such as clearings or areas that have been recently burned.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Hura Crepitans tree dangerous?
A: Yes, the tree is dangerous because of its explosive seed pods. Standing near the tree when the pods explode can result in serious injury or death.
Q: Can the Hura Crepitans tree be grown as a houseplant?
A: No, the tree is too large to be grown as a houseplant and requires warm temperatures and high humidity to thrive.
Q: What are the medicinal uses of the Hura Crepitans tree?
A: The tree has been used by indigenous peoples for centuries to treat a variety of ailments, including skin conditions, fever, and pain.
Q: Is the Hura Crepitans tree endangered?
A: The tree is not currently listed as endangered, but it is threatened by deforestation and habitat loss.
Related Plants
- Hura Polyandra
- Hura Crepitans var. crepitans
- Hura Crepitans var. tomentosa
References
- “Hura crepitans.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=a962.
- “Hura crepitans.” Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute, stri.si.edu/sites/publications/PDFs/STRI-Wr-68-1994.pdf.
- “Hura crepitans.” United States Department of Agriculture, plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=HUPO.
