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Description
Caesalpinia Sclerocarpa, commonly known as the Brazilian ironwood, is a tree species native to Brazil and other parts of South America. It belongs to the Fabaceae family and is known for its hard, durable wood that is used in construction and furniture making. The tree can grow up to 20 meters in height and has a dense crown of glossy green leaves. The flowers of Caesalpinia Sclerocarpa are small and yellow and bloom in clusters from late spring to early summer. The fruit of the tree is a long, slender pod that contains small black seeds.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Caesalpinia |
Appearance
The Brazilian ironwood has a straight trunk with a diameter of up to 90 cm. The bark is dark brown and rough, with deep furrows. The leaves are compound, with small leaflets arranged along a central stem. The leaflets are glossy and oval-shaped, with a length of up to 4 cm. The flowers of Caesalpinia Sclerocarpa are small and yellow, with five petals and numerous stamens. The fruit of the tree is a long, narrow pod that is up to 30 cm in length.
Care Guide
Caesalpinia Sclerocarpa is a hardy tree that requires little maintenance once established. It prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate a range of soil types, from sandy to clay. The tree should be watered regularly during the first few years of growth to help establish its root system. After that, it can tolerate periods of drought. Fertilizer can be applied in the spring and fall to encourage healthy growth. Caesalpinia Sclerocarpa prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade. It is hardy in USDA zones 9 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Caesalpinia Sclerocarpa is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if grown in poorly draining soil. Leaf spot and powdery mildew can also occur, particularly in humid conditions. These can be treated with a fungicide spray.
Habitat
Caesalpinia Sclerocarpa is native to Brazil and other parts of South America, where it grows in tropical and subtropical forests. The tree prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate a range of soil types, from sandy to clay. It is often found growing near rivers and other bodies of water.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Caesalpinia Sclerocarpa a fast-growing tree?
A: No, Caesalpinia Sclerocarpa is a slow-growing tree that can take several years to reach its full height.
Q: Can Caesalpinia Sclerocarpa be grown in a container?
A: Yes, Caesalpinia Sclerocarpa can be grown in a container, but it will require regular pruning to keep it from outgrowing its container.
Q: Is Caesalpinia Sclerocarpa a good shade tree?
A: No, Caesalpinia Sclerocarpa prefers full sun and is not a good choice for a shade tree.
Q: What is the wood of Caesalpinia Sclerocarpa used for?
A: The wood of Caesalpinia Sclerocarpa is hard and durable, and is often used in construction and furniture making.
Related Plants
- Caesalpinia bonduc
- Caesalpinia echinata
- Caesalpinia pulcherrima
References
- “Caesalpinia sclerocarpa.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed September 21, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c164.
- “Caesalpinia sclerocarpa.” PlantFiles. Accessed September 21, 2021. https://davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/153851/.
- “Caesalpinia sclerocarpa.” Useful Tropical Plants. Accessed September 21, 2021. https://uses.plantnet-project.org/en/Caesalpinia_sclerocarpa_(PROSEA).
