Cannonball Tree 45G

Cannonball Tree in 45-Gallon Pot available in Jupiter, FL

Bold, bizarre, and bursting with blooms—the Cannonball Tree (Couroupita guianensis) is a tropical showstopper treasured for its fragrant, otherworldly flowers and massive, round fruits that resemble rusty cannonballs. Native to the rainforests of Central and South America, this fast-growing tree makes a striking specimen in South Florida gardens where space and curiosity abound. Its enormous pink and orange blossoms grow right from the trunk in clusters—offering a one-of-a-kind conversation piece for botanical collectors and adventurous gardeners.

This 45-gallon tree is already substantial in size—perfect for those who want to grow something truly legendary.

Care & Growing Info (Optimized for South Florida):

• Sunlight: Full sun is best—aim for 6–8+ hours daily to encourage rapid growth and heavy blooming.

• Watering: Moderate to high. Keep soil moist, especially during dry seasons. Benefits from consistent irrigation.

• Soil: Prefers rich, loamy, well-drained soil with lots of organic matter. Mulch well to maintain moisture.

• Fertilizer: Feed monthly during spring through fall with a high-phosphorus tropical blend to support blooms and fruit set.

• Growth Habit: Upright, fast-growing with a broad canopy. In a 45-gallon pot, typically 8–10 feet tall. In-ground, can reach 35–75 feet over time with dramatic trunk and flowering stems.

• Temperature: USDA Zones 10–12. Loves heat and humidity; protect young trees from cold snaps.

• Maintenance: Moderate. Prune for structure when young and to remove any dead or crowded growth.

Flower & Fruit Notes:
Unbelievable pink, salmon, and yellow blossoms appear in clusters along the trunk and branches—sweetly fragrant and highly ornamental. Round, hard fruits grow directly from the trunk, eventually falling with a thud—handle with caution!

Medicinal & Nutritional Benefits:
Used traditionally in indigenous medicine for antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory purposes. Extracts from flowers, leaves, and bark have been studied for wound healing and antimicrobial properties. Fruit is not typically eaten due to its strong odor and tough exterior.

Ideal For:

• Botanical collectors and rare tree lovers

• Large tropical gardens and estate landscapes

• Educational or public garden displays

• Gardeners seeking exotic and conversation-worthy specimens

• Areas with ample sun and space for dramatic growth

Plant Classification:

• Scientific Name: Couroupita guianensis

• Plant Type: Flowering tropical tree

• Family: Lecythidaceae (same family as the Brazil nut)

• Class: Dicot

• Growth Form: Broadleaf deciduous perennial

  • Deciduous: Drops leaves briefly during cool or dry seasons

  • Perennial: Long-lived with consistent flowering and fruiting

  • Broadleaf: Large, leathery leaves create a bold tropical look

• Container Size: 45-gallon pot

Jupiter Farms & Nursery