Canonnball Tree

Thanks to my friend Pat (an excellent  blogger and friend who visited me in December), I found out that this tree is actually called the cannonball tree. It is very aptly named for the large, brown spherical fruits that sprout from the trunk of the tree. This native Indian tree is advised to be planted away from main pathways, as the ripe fruit falls to the ground without notice, landing with a loud exploding sound. Inside the fruit are lots of seeds covered by hair, likely making it easier to pass through the stomach of a host. The inside of the fruit can be used to disinfect wounds The fruit of the Nagalingam tree (as it is known in Tamil - the language of the region) emits an unpleasant, strong odor when exposed to air - yet another good reason why one should not plant it close to the main walking areas.

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