Tara
caesalpinia spinosa
Also known as: ["Tara tree","Peruvian tara"]
Overview
A deciduous tree native to Peru, known for its spiny branches and yellow flowers, valued for its tannin-rich seeds.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","medicinal use"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Fabales |
| Family: | Fabaceae |
| Genus: | Caesalpinia |
| Botanical Name: | Caesalpinia spinosa |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in a sunny, sheltered spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, slightly alkaline soil mix with sand or perlite for aeration.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth to rejuvenate the plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates partial shade but may become leggy.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun in hot climates; ensure outdoor placement receives full sun exposure.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 7–14 days, allowing soil to dry between waterings
Water thoroughly until runoff, ensure soil dries between waterings, and reduce frequency in winter.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or loamy soil with moderate fertility
pH: 6.0–7.5 (slightly acidic to slightly alkaline).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; topdress with compost annually.
Temperature
Thrives in 60–85°F (15–29°C); tolerates mild frosts but prefers warm, dry conditions.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; adjust watering for heat.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth with balanced liquid fertilizer
Fertilize only during active growth; avoid over-fertilization; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
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 (70–75°F), high humidity (70–80%), and bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus mix.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots develop in 4–6 weeks; new growth appears in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning and heading back to shape the plant and improve airflow.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or overgrown branches.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, gloves, disinfectant.
Checklist
Disinfect tools, prune dead/damaged branches, shape the plant, clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2 inches in diameter).
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if needed, place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil, water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; necessary to refresh soil and provide space.
Checklist
Check root bound status, prepare new pot, trim roots, use fresh soil, water lightly.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water deeply, ensure drainage, adjust for season, avoid wetting leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, apply until water drains from the bottom, ensure even saturation, and water in the morning to minimize evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once every 7–10 days during active growth in spring and summer; reduce frequency to every 3–4 weeks in fall and winter, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings.
Soil Improvement
Add coarse sand, perlite, or gravel to improve drainage; incorporate organic matter for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or leaf drop in cold stress; wilting or scorching in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Growth slows, leaves may yellow or drop, and frost can damage tender tissues.
Solution: Move to a sheltered location, provide frost protection, and reduce watering in cold periods.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may slow due to excessive heat.
Solution: Provide partial shade during peak heat, increase humidity, and water deeply but infrequently.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase, use diluted fertilizer, apply to moist soil, avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer; avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats that ingest the seeds or pods of Caesalpinia spinosa may experience mild gastrointestinal symptoms. The toxic compounds can cause irritation and discomfort in the digestive tract.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIngestion of the seeds and pods by dogs can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset due to the presence of lectins and other bioactive compounds. These substances can disrupt normal digestive processes.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicThe seeds and pods of Caesalpinia spinosa contain lectins and other compounds that can cause gastrointestinal distress and other mild symptoms upon ingestion. These compounds interfere with nutrient absorption and can lead to discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Tara tree suitable for dry climates?
A: Yes, it is highly drought-tolerant and thrives in arid conditions.
Q: What are the uses of Tara tree seeds?
A: The seeds are rich in tannins and used in leather tanning and as a natural dye.
Q: Does the Tara tree attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its nectar-rich flowers.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Fabaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–14 days, allowing so |
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