Carob tree - Ceratonia siliqua (Care, Characteristics, Symbolism, Images, Toxic)

Carob tree

Also known as: Locust tree, Algaroba

Carob tree (Ceratonia siliqua) is a flowering evergreen shrub native to the Middle East and the Mediterranean. Carob tree is often used in ornamental horticulture in gardens and landscaping practices. This shrub has edible pods that are sometimes toasted, ground into powder, and used as a cooking substitute for chocolate. For commercial purposes, the pods are often cultivated in large orchards.

Scientific classification

Species

Carob tree (Ceratonia siliqua)

Legumes, milkworts and allies

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Toxic to Humans

Toxicity

Perennial

Lifespan

Tree

Plant Type

Green

Leaf Color

6 mm to 1.2 cm

Flower Size

Brown, Green

Fruit Color

Red

Flower Color

Green

Stem Color

Non-dormant

Dormancy

Evergreen

Leaf type

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Carob tree

Distribution of Carob tree

Distribution Map

Carob tree (Ceratonia siliqua) is a tree that thrives in its native Mediterranean and Iranian regions on rocky seashores. The plant has been introduced widely to Australia, Peru, India, China, and much of sub-Saharan Africa. This tree is a popular ornamental variety grown in arid climates worldwide.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Rocky places near the sea shore

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Flowering

Fruiting

Culture

Garden Use

Carob tree is cultivated as an ornamental primarily in use as a screening hedge, but can also be carefully pruned into a more classical decorative tree shape. Its drought tolerance has made it a popular choice for parks and public works in drier areas of the West. It is often planted along with Neem and Jujube trees.

Symbolism

Humility, returning, being satisfied with what you have

Interesting Facts

The seeds of carob tree were once used to weigh out gold, giving birth to the name carat, a standard measurement for precious jewels. Carob tree is a member of the legume family. Its edible pods are often used as a caffeine-free replacement for chocolate. They are sometimes even fed to livestock.

Name Story

Carob tree: The word "carob" comes from the Middle French carobe and modern French caroube. In Arabic, it holds the meaning "locust bean pod". Ceratonia siliqua, the botanical name of the carob tree, is derived from the Greek fruit of the carob, and from Latin siliqua meaning pod, carob.

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Toxicity

Carob pods are generally safe but can cause allergy symptoms including nausea, vomiting, hives, and anaphylactic shock. Overconsumption may lower blood sugar and insulin, especially in small children. Individuals with allergies or severe symptoms should seek medical attention. Use caution if experiencing adverse effects. Avoid amounts that may trigger these reactions, particularly in children. Carob tree itself is usually inedible.

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Quickly Identify Carob tree

Broad, rounded crown with glossy green foliage.

Distinctive elongated pods resembling horns, typically brown.

Flowers in dense clusters on catkin-like racemes, lacking petals.

Fruit pods 4–12 inches (10–30 cm) long, with thickened seams.

Thick trunk with rough, brown bark and sturdy branching structure.

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Care Guide for Carob tree

Every 1-2 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Adapted to the Mediterranean climate, carob tree exhibits high drought tolerance and thrives with minimal rainfall. Watering once every 1-2 weeks simulates natural conditions. As an evergreen, carob tree requires consistent soil moisture for year-round growth, avoiding overwatering to ensure health.

Fertilize: Fertilize carob tree every 2-3 months with high nitrogen fertilizers to enhance leafy growth during the growing season. Avoid over-fertilization to prevent root burn. In winter, reduce applications as carob tree dorms. For best results, incorporate fertilizer into the soil around the tree's drip line.

Pruning: Carob tree thrives with annual pruning during early to late winter, focusing on dead or overcrowded branches to improve airflow and sunlight. This practice supports its structure for heavy pods, reduces disease risks, and promotes vigorous growth. Refer to the Royal Horticultural Society for more guidance.

Propagation: Carob tree propagation is best done in Spring through Cutting and Layering methods. While moderately challenging, success is shown by new shoot growth. Maintaining humidity is essential for achieving optimal results.

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