Guanacaste

The Guanacaste (or Enterolobium cyclocarpum) also called: the "elephant ear tree" became 1959 the national tree of Costa Rica. It is abundant in this country. It can live up to 70 years and is about 15m high; much less than those of Venezuela (50m) but of much better quality. It is very popular with cabinetmakers who make furniture from it. Lightweight and water resistant, it is also used for canoe construction. Indeed, its large size and the width of its trunk facilitate the cutting of large panels. Boats, tables, chairs, and furniture of all kinds are known to "last a lifetime". Artists also use it for its special color.