Mimosa tree, Tara tree
enterolobium contortisiliquum
Also known as: ["Mimosa tree","Tara tree","Tara bean tree"]
Overview
A medium-sized deciduous tree native to South America, known for its bipinnate leaves and twisted pods.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Fabales |
| Family: | Fabaceae |
| Genus: | Enterolobium |
| Botanical Name: | Enterolobium contortisiliquum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in a spacious area with room for growth
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–40°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter; tolerates slightly sandy or clay soils if well-drained.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if needed.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates partial shade but may become leggy.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually if moving from shade to sun; protect from intense midday sun in hot climates; ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter harsh sunlight; avoid placing near reflective surfaces that intensify light.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until runoff, allow soil to dry between waterings, avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-drained, loamy soil with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid compacted soil; test pH if issues arise.
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures (65–85°F/18–29°C); tolerates mild frosts but thrives in tropical to subtropical climates.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from drafts; maintain humidity in dry environments.
Fertilizing
every 2 months during spring and summer
Fertilize every 4–6 weeks during growing season; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use organic options like compost for slow release.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seeds; stem cuttings are more reliable for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting, remove lower leaves, apply rooting hormone, plant in medium, keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–80°F/21–27°C), high humidity (70–80%), and bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus mix.
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone for faster and more reliable rooting.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; establishment can take several months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning, heading back, and removal of crossing branches.
Pruning Plan
Shape the plant, remove dead or diseased wood, encourage bushier growth, and improve air circulation.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, gloves, disinfectant.
Checklist
Disinfect tools, prune during dormancy, remove dead/diseased wood, shape evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if necessary, place in new pot with fresh soil, water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for root health and growth.
Checklist
Choose right pot size, prepare new soil, handle roots carefully, water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water deeply, ensure drainage, avoid wetting leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; use mulch to retain moisture.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf drop, yellowing, stunted growth, or bud drop in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Growth slows or halts; leaves may wilt or discolor; prolonged cold can cause dieback.
Solution: Move to a sheltered location; apply mulch to protect roots; use frost cloth if temperatures drop below 30°F (-1°C).
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering due to excessive heat and dry conditions.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type, dilute if liquid, apply during growing season, avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring and summer; dilute liquid fertilizer to half-strength if needed; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicThe seeds and pods of Enterolobium contortisiliquum are toxic to cats, inducing gastrointestinal and systemic toxicity. The toxic compounds can cause severe digestive disturbances and require immediate veterinary care.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicThe seeds and pods of Enterolobium contortisiliquum are toxic to dogs, causing gastrointestinal upset and potential systemic toxicity. The toxic compounds can lead to severe digestive issues and require prompt veterinary intervention.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicThe seeds and pods of Enterolobium contortisiliquum contain toxic compounds that can cause gastrointestinal distress and other systemic effects upon ingestion. These compounds interfere with normal digestive processes and may lead to significant physiological disturbances.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Enterolobium contortisiliquum suitable for urban planting?
A: Yes, it can thrive in urban environments with adequate space and sunlight.
Q: Does this tree require regular pruning?
A: Pruning is recommended to maintain shape and remove deadwood, but it is not overly demanding.
Q: Are the pods of this tree edible?
A: The pods are not typically consumed by humans, and their edibility is not well-documented.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Fabaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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