the Calabash Tree; a genus of plants belonging to the didynamia class; and in the natural method ranking under the 25th order, Putaminaceae. See BOTANY Index.

The shells of calabashes are made use of for various purposes. At Barbadoes, besides drinking-cups and punch bowls, there are made of them spoons, dishes, and other utensils for the slaves. Some of these shells are so large, as to be capable of holding 15 pints of water. The pulp is seldom eaten, except by cattle in the time of drought. The wood, which is hard and smooth, is made into stools, chairs, and other furniture.