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| *The above flower is from a handsome tropical tree, the Barringtonia asiatica, found across the Indo-Pacific
and Caribbean shores and islands. Such trees were planted for their striking flowers and foliage, and may reach
a height of 50 feet. The beautiful, multi-white filaments of the nocturnal flowers frequently attract night flying moths.
This particular image was taken in Lami Bay, Suva Bay, Suva, Fiji. The tree has a multitude of names. It is sometimes called the Yum Yum Tree, or in Tahiti the Hotu or Heart tree for the shape of its fruit. Other names are "box fruit tree" or "fish poison tree." The fruit, shaped somewhat like a bishop's miter, is one of the most durable and widespread of the ocean's drifting fruit, remaining buoyant for at least two years. In fact, in Southeast Asia the fruits are used as fishing floats. The seeds contain a toxin called saponin that could be used to stun fish. In Polynesia, the seed is crushed , mixed with water, and thrown into tidal pools and streams to stupefy fish for easier catching. Interested visitors may enjoy a visit to the site Drift Seeds and Drift Fruits - Seeds That Ride The Ocean Currents. - Late June |
