Lecythis minor

Native from Panama through Colombia to northwestern Venezuela, Lecythis minor, or monkey-pot tree, often grows as a small, much-branched tree in dry, open or disturbed habitats. In moister forests, especially beside watercourses, it can develop a taller, single trunk. Its woody fruits open by shedding a lid, leaving a cup-shaped capsule. The flower’s hood bears curved appendages without anthers, while fertile stamens occupy a separate ring.

The seeds can accumulate very high concentrations of selenium, and poisoning after eating them has been documented. A 2019 Colombian study examined the seed oil for potential cosmetic use, comparing pressing with solvent extraction and characterizing its physical and chemical properties. Photographed in the north coast of Colombia.