Scientific name: Kigelia africana

GPS Location: 17° 42′ 56.31″ N, 64° 49′ 46.99″ W

Observations:

Phenological Markers – Sausage Tree (Kigelia africana)

1. Flowering
The Sausage Tree produces large, dark red to maroon bell-shaped flowers, which hang from long, rope-like stalks (peduncles). These inflorescences often dangle well below the canopy, making them highly visible.

• In St. Croix’s climate, flowering typically peaks during the dry season to early wet season, often March to June.
• Flowers open at night and are pollinated by bats and large insects—though daytime visitors like bees may also be seen.
• Flowers are short-lived, often falling to the ground within a day.

Observation Tips:

• Track initial stalk emergence, flower bud development, and flower drop timing.
• Note pollinator activity, especially around dusk or early morning.
• Watch for flower litter beneath the tree as an indicator of active blooming.

2. Fruiting
Following pollination, the tree develops massive, sausage-shaped fruits (12–24 inches long, 10+ lbs), which hang from the same long stalks.

• Fruit development is slow and extended, often taking up to a year to reach maturity.
• Mature fruits are woody and gray-brown, often left hanging for months or until dropped by wind or decay.

Observation Tips:

• Document fruit length and surface changes (smooth green to coarse brown).
• Use caution—mature fruits can be dangerous if they fall unexpectedly.
• Note any fruit drop, cracking, or wildlife interaction.

3. Leaf Behavior
The Sausage Tree is semi-deciduous, sometimes shedding part or all of its leaves during dry periods, particularly before flowering.

• New leaves emerge with flowering or shortly thereafter and are compound, with 3–7 leaflets.
• Leaf flush is often synchronized, producing a refreshed green canopy.

4. Cauliflorous Traits
While not as strictly cauliflorous as the Cannonball Tree, flowers and fruits are borne on long pendulous stalks that hang conspicuously from the main branches.