Pterygota alata
This large seed pod (about 10cm diameter) comes from the Pterygota alata tree that is native to forests of many South-East Asian countries.
In English it is colloquially know as the Buddha’s Coconut or Buddha Nut tree due to the seed pod’s resemblance to a coconut. The winged seeds are eaten by some local populations and the pods are widely exported for decorative uses in terrariums, vivarium and aquariums, sold for around £2 each.
The seed casing swells smoothly and voluptuously out from the stem and its bulbous form is emphasised by a wavy linear texture that runs from tip to base. The near-spherical case has split open at maturity revealing a soft, compressible interior that still bears the impressions of the pairs of winged seeds that once occupied it. The split reveals the cross-section of the pod with a woody outer shell and a spongy interior lining.
Pterygota alata
Scientific Classification:
Family: Malvaceae (previously Sterculiaceae)
Genus: Pterygota
Species: alata
Description:
Common Names: Often known simply as Pterygota or winged seed tree (referring to its winged seeds). Local names vary by region.
Type: Large tropical tree.
Height: Can grow up to 40-50 meters tall.
Leaves: Large, alternate, palmately lobed leaves.
Flowers: Small, yellowish-white, arranged in clusters.
Fruit: Large, woody capsules with distinctive winged seeds (hence the name alata, meaning "winged").
Distribution: Native to tropical Asia and parts of Africa.
Ecological and Economic Importance:
Timber: The wood is moderately heavy, durable, and used locally for construction, furniture, and fuelwood.
Seeds: The winged seeds aid wind dispersal, helping the species colonize open areas.
Ecology: Found in lowland tropical forests; contributes to forest structure and biodiversity.
Other uses: In some regions, parts of the tree are used in traditional medicine.
Interesting facts:
The winged seeds are adapted for wind dispersal, allowing seedlings to establish at some distance from the parent tree.
The tree plays a role in local ecosystems as a canopy species, providing habitat and food for various animals.
Ecological Role of Pterygota alata
1. Canopy and Forest Structure
Pterygota alata is a large emergent or canopy tree in tropical forests.
It contributes to forest stratification, providing vertical complexity which supports diverse animal and plant communities.
Its tall stature helps create microhabitats underneath, regulating light and humidity for understory plants.
2. Seed Dispersal and Regeneration
The species produces winged seeds, which are adapted for wind dispersal.
This allows Pterygota alata to colonize disturbed or open areas, aiding forest regeneration and succession.
Effective seed dispersal helps maintain genetic diversity and species distribution.
3. Wildlife Habitat and Food Source
The flowers and seeds provide food for a variety of insects, birds, and small mammals.
Its large canopy offers shelter and nesting sites for arboreal animals and birds.
4. Soil and Microclimate Impact
Leaf litter from Pterygota alata contributes to nutrient cycling by enriching the soil with organic matter.
The canopy regulates temperature and moisture at the forest floor, influencing the microclimate and promoting biodiversity.
5. Role in Succession and Forest Dynamics
As a species capable of growing in disturbed or regenerating forests, it plays a role in ecological succession.
It helps stabilize forest ecosystems after natural disturbances like storms or human impact.
