The dynamite tree is a plant that hurls its seeds far up to 40 meters away, at a speed of 70 meters per second, with the force of an explosion.
The so-called dynamite tree (Hura crepitans), also known as the “sandalwood tree”, a plant native to the tropical regions of the American continent, owes its name to its ability to throw its seeds up to over 40 meters away at a speed of 70 meters per second.
The explosive fruits
Its fruits are woody capsules that, once ripe, dry and contract until they explode, with a loud bang that can launch the seeds considerable distances, increasing their likelihood of germination and survival.
Researchers who collect the seeds for study purposes must have the foresight to take shelter behind solid screens to avoid being hit by these real plant projectiles.
The dynamite tree is also known to be highly toxic: its milky sap contains irritating and poisonous substances, such as urushiol, an oily mixture of organic compounds that can cause serious skin irritation and allergic reactions.
