Vintage Sandbox tree Botanical Print – 1754 Plantae Selectae Illustration

Discover the intriguing Hura crepitans, commonly known as the Sandbox Tree or Jabillo. This 18th-century botanical print, originally featured in Plantae Selectae (1754), showcases the tree's distinctive spiny trunk, broad leaves, and unique seed capsules, capturing its remarkable characteristics in exquisite detail.

Native to the tropical regions of the Americas, Hura crepitans thrives in humid forests, often reaching impressive heights. Its most notable features include a smooth brown bark adorned with dark, pointed spines, earning it the nickname "Monkey No-Climb." The tree produces large, ovate leaves and small red flowers that develop into explosive seed capsules.

The seed capsules are particularly fascinating; upon reaching maturity, they explode with a loud report, dispersing seeds at high velocities—a unique adaptation for seed distribution. Historically, the toxic sap of the tree was used by indigenous peoples to poison fish, and the hollowed-out seed capsules served as primitive sandboxes for blotting ink, giving rise to the common name "Sandbox Tree."

This botanical print is perfect for those who appreciate vintage botanical art, unique tree species, and the wonders of natural history. Its detailed illustration makes it an excellent choice for art collectors, nature enthusiasts, and admirers of botanical curiosities.

✨ Why You’ll Love It:
✔ Authentic 18th-Century Botanical Artwork – A historical reproduction from Plantae Selectae
✔ Showcases Unique Botanical Features – Featuring Hura crepitans, known for its explosive seed dispersal and spiny trunk
✔ Perfect for Eclectic & Botanical Interiors – A captivating addition to art collections, studies, or living spaces
✔ A Thoughtful Gift – Ideal for plant lovers, historians, and collectors of vintage botanical prints