Carob Tree
ceratonia siliqua
Also known as: ["St. John's Bread","Locust Bean Tree"]
Overview
A long-lived evergreen tree native to the Mediterranean region, known for its edible seed pods.
Benefits & Perks
["edible fruits","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Fabales |
| Family: | Fabaceae |
| Genus: | Ceratonia |
| Botanical Name: | Ceratonia siliqua |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in a sheltered, sunny spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–11"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter and sand.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate to heavy, depending on tree size and age.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates partial shade but may reduce fruiting.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh midday sun in hot climates; ensure outdoor placement receives unobstructed light.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatechallenging
Sunlight
full sun
Use shade cloth in extreme heat; rotate plant for even light exposure; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 2–3 weeks during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly until runoff, ensure soil dries out between waterings, and avoid frequent shallow watering.
Soil
well-drained, loamy soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.5).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; test pH periodically.
Temperature
Prefers 65–85°F (18–29°C); tolerates mild frosts but thrives in warm, Mediterranean climates.
Protect from frost; ensure good air circulation in heat; adjust watering with temperature.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during spring and summer
Fertilize lightly after pruning; avoid over-fertilizing to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Seed or root cuttings (difficult from cuttings due to slow growth).
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Prepare medium.
- Plant seeds or cuttings.
- Maintain moisture.
- Provide warmth.
- Wait for roots.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when temperatures are warm and stable.
Environment
Warm (70–80°F), high humidity (70–80%), and bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of sand, perlite, and peat moss.
Hormone
Optional, but rooting hormone can improve success rates for cuttings.
Timeline
Seeds may take 1–3 months to germinate; cuttings may root in 2–4 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, heat mat, humidity dome.
Quick Tips
Use fresh seeds for best germination; maintain consistent moisture; be patient with slow growth.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Thinning cuts to open the canopy; heading cuts to control height and shape.
Pruning Plan
Shape the tree, remove dead or crossing branches, and encourage airflow and light penetration.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, saw (for larger branches), sterilizing solution.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/diseased wood first; make clean cuts; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove old soil gently; trim roots if necessary; repot in fresh, well-draining mix with added organic matter.
Suggestions
Repot only when root-bound or every 3–4 years to refresh soil.
Checklist
Check root boundness; prepare new pot; trim roots; use fresh soil; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture with finger; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even saturation to a depth of 6–8 inches, allowing excess water to drain freely; water in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal risk.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once every 7–10 days during active growth in spring and summer; reduce frequency to every 2–3 weeks in fall and winter, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings.
Soil Improvement
Add coarse sand or perlite for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; use mulch to retain moisture.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or leaf drop in extreme cold; wilting or scorching in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf drop, and can lead to bud abortion if temperatures drop below 20°F (-6°C).
Solution: Provide frost protection (e.g., burlap wrap); move potted plants indoors; use mulch to insulate roots.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, scorch, or drop; reduced flowering and fruiting in prolonged heat.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring; dilute liquid fertilizer to half-strength monthly during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicCarob is non-toxic to cats and can be safely consumed in moderation. The seeds are not toxic but are not digestible.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicCarob is considered safe for dogs and is often used as a treat or ingredient in dog foods. The seeds are not toxic but are not digestible.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicCeratonia siliqua, commonly known as the carob tree, is generally considered non-toxic to humans. The seeds are hard and not typically ingested, but they are not known to cause toxicity.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is carob safe for pets?
A: Yes, carob is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: Can carob pods be eaten by humans?
A: Yes, carob pods are edible and often used as a chocolate substitute.
Q: How tall does a carob tree grow?
A: Carob trees can grow up to 50 feet tall in optimal conditions.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Fabaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 2–3 weeks during activ |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
