Crescentia alata aka Morrito

Crescentia alata is a tropical tree in the Bignoniaceae family. Its native range runs from Mexico through Central America. Common names include jicara, morro, tecomate, and winged calabash. It grows on plains and hillsides with marked seasonal changes. These sites can stay dry, then become wet during rains. People gather its fruits from wild trees and grow it in gardens.

The tree sheds its leaves and has a short trunk. Its crown is open, with a rounded or spreading shape. Slender branches help give the tree its distinct form. Garden trees reach about 26 feet (8 metres) in height and width. Some trees reach 39 feet (12 metres) tall. Trunk width can reach about 0.8–1.6 feet (0.25–0.5 metres). Sources differ on growth speed, describing it as moderate or fast.

Flowers grow straight from the trunk and branches. Bats pollinate them. The fruits hold flesh and seeds within a hard, woody shell. People cut these shells into cups and other small containers. This use has a long history in Guatemala. Whole fruits also reach markets far from their wild growing sites. Growers plant the tree for its appearance and for timber. Its open crown and trunk-borne flowers give it landscape interest.

Give this tree full sun and soil that drains well. It can grow in sand, loam, or clay. It accepts mildly acid, neutral, and mildly alkaline soil. Dry or moist ground suits it, and it tolerates drought. PFAF lists USDA hardiness zones 9–12. Growers can raise new plants from seed. The supplied sources give no specific pest or disease problems. Useful Tropical Plants reports a wide range and large population. It cites a 2019 IUCN assessment of Least Concern.

The seeds provide oil and form part of traditional drinks. One such drink combines ground seeds with rice and other ingredients. People sometimes eat the fruit or use it in drinks. Traditional medicine uses the pulp for colds and kidney ailments. Leaf preparations have served as astringents and treatments for bleeding and dysentery. These records describe folk uses, not proof of safe treatment. The sources list no known hazards, but provide no detailed safety assessment.