Contents
Description
Enterolobium is a tree species that is commonly known as the ear pod tree or the monkeypod tree. It is native to Central and South America but is now grown worldwide for ornamental purposes. The tree has a wide, spreading canopy with large, compound leaves that can reach up to 20 inches long. The flowers are white or cream-colored and are followed by large, flat seed pods that resemble ears, hence the common name “ear pod tree”. The tree can grow up to 100 feet tall and can live for up to 50 years.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Leguminosae |
| Genus | Enterolobium |
Appearance
The Enterolobium tree has a beautiful appearance, making it a popular choice for landscaping. The tree has a wide, spreading canopy with compound leaves that are bright green, glossy, and can grow up to 20 inches long. The flowers are white or cream-colored and are followed by large, flat seed pods that can reach up to 8 inches in length. The bark of the tree is rough and gray, with deep fissures that give it a distinctive appearance. The tree can grow up to 100 feet tall and has a spread of up to 75 feet.
Care Guide
Enterolobium is a hardy tree species that is relatively easy to care for. Here are some tips for caring for your Enterolobium tree:
- Water: Water your tree regularly, especially during the hot summer months. The tree prefers moist, well-draining soil.
- Fertilization: Fertilize your tree with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer once a year, in the spring.
- Soil: Enterolobium prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clayey soils.
- Sunlight: Enterolobium prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Enterolobium is hardy in USDA zones 9 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Enterolobium is relatively resistant to pests and diseases, but it can still be susceptible to some common issues. Here are some of the pests and diseases that can affect Enterolobium trees:
- Caterpillars: Caterpillars can eat the leaves of Enterolobium trees, causing defoliation and weakening the tree.
- Scale insects: Scale insects can infest Enterolobium trees, causing yellowing of the leaves and stunting of the tree.
- Root rot: Enterolobium trees can be susceptible to root rot if they are planted in poorly-draining soil.
Habitat
Enterolobium is native to Central and South America and is commonly found in tropical and subtropical regions. The tree is well-suited to a variety of soil types and can grow in both wet and dry conditions. Enterolobium trees are often found in parks and gardens, as well as along roadsides and in other urban areas.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Enterolobium an evergreen or deciduous tree?
A: Enterolobium is a deciduous tree, meaning it loses its leaves in the fall.Q: How often should I water my Enterolobium tree?
A: Enterolobium trees prefer moist soil, so water them regularly, especially during the hot summer months.Q: How tall can an Enterolobium tree grow?
A: Enterolobium trees can grow up to 100 feet tall.Q: Can Enterolobium trees be grown in containers?
A: Enterolobium trees are not well-suited to container growing, as they require a lot of space for their roots to grow.
Related Plants
- Albizia julibrissin (Mimosa tree)
- Cassia fistula (Golden shower tree)
- Delonix regia (Flamboyant tree)
- Prosopis juliflora (Mesquite tree)
References
- “Enterolobium cyclocarpum.” Wikipedia, Wikimedia Foundation, 16 July 2021, en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Enterolobium_cyclocarpum.
- “Enterolobium cyclocarpum.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b598.
- “Enterolobium cyclocarpum.” PlantZAfrica, www.plantzafrica.com/plantefg/enterocyclocarp.htm.
