The Temple Tree

This stunning flowering tree called the sacred garlic pear or temple plant, Crateva religiosa, is also sometimes called the spider tree because the showy cream to yellow flowers bear long, spidery purple stamens.

Crateva religiosa flowers

The large pear-shaped fruits can be up to 15 cm long.  It is native to Australia, Japan, much of Southeast Asia and several south Pacific islands. It is grown elsewhere for its fruit, especially in parts of the African continent.  The fruit of the tree is edible and a member of the Caper Family.

The nectar-filled flowers are attractive to a multitude of insects and birds. The Pierid butterfly (Hebomoia glaucippe) is a frequent visitor to this plant.

This tree can be found in Cooktown Botanic Gardens on the main lawn and is in full flower now, in August, and hopefully these lovely flowers will still be out by the time you read this.  It is also found on Cape York along gravely streams and watercourses, and suitable for Cooktown gardens.

Prefers a semi shade position along a watercourse, and can be propagated from hardwood cuttings or seed or by transplanting any root suckers.

It is an anti-inflammatory, diuretic, and is useful in disorders of urinary organs and renowned for maintaining a healthy urinary tract and bladder function. A postal stamp was issued by the Indian Postal Department to commemorate this tree.

Crateva - named for Kratevas, 1st century Greek herbalist, renowned for his skill in poisoning. religiosa - Sacred.

Sandy lloyd