Ceratonia siliqua
TAXONOMY
FamilyFabaceae
GenusCeratonia
Zone9
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Plants of the World OnlineABOUT
Ceratonia siliqua, commonly known as the carob tree or St. John's bread, is a species in the Fabaceae family. Native to the Mediterranean region, it is a hardy, evergreen shrub or tree that can grow up to 15 meters tall. The carob tree is known for its edible pods, which are often used as a chocolate substitute. It prefers subtropical climates and has a dormancy period of about 3 months.
ALSO KNOWN AS
Carob Tree
Ceratonia coriacea
Ceratonia inermis
OVERVIEW
VPDCalculate
WaterDry
SoilLoamy
LightDirect Bright (8 Hours)
Temperature20° C
Humidity50%
GDD5,475
Dormancy3 Months
pH6.5
Pressure1,013 mbar
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DETAILS
Care Instructions
The carob tree thrives in direct bright light and requires moderate temperatures. It prefers a dry environment and can tolerate drought conditions. Regular watering is necessary during the growth stage, but the soil should be allowed to dry out almost completely between waterings. Ensure the plant receives ample sunlight for at least 8 hours a day.Harvest
Ceratonia siliqua, commonly known as the carob tree, is typically harvested in late summer to early autumn when the pods turn a dark brown color and become dry and brittle. Harvesting is usually done by hand, using poles to knock the pods from the branches, or by shaking the tree. It is important to ensure that the pods are fully mature and dry before harvesting to prevent spoilage. After harvesting, the pods are often left to dry further in the sun before being processed.Soil
Ceratonia siliqua prefers well-draining loam soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. The soil should be kept relatively dry, as the plant is drought-tolerant. Good drainage is essential to prevent root rot.Fertilizer
Use a balanced fertilizer with a nutrient composition of 5-10-10 during the growing season. Fertilize sparingly, as the carob tree does not require high nutrient concentrations. Apply fertilizer once in early spring and again in mid-summer.Repotting
Repot the carob tree every 2-3 years or when it outgrows its current container. Choose a pot that is slightly larger than the previous one and ensure it has good drainage. Repotting is best done in early spring before the growing season begins.Propagation
Propagate the carob tree through seeds or cuttings. Seeds should be soaked in water for 24 hours before planting. Cuttings can be taken from semi-hardwood branches in late summer. Ensure the cuttings have at least two nodes and plant them in a well-draining soil mix.Pruning
Prune the carob tree in late winter or early spring to maintain its shape and remove any dead or diseased branches. Regular pruning helps promote healthy growth and improves air circulation within the canopy.Toxicity
Ceratonia siliqua is not toxic to pets or humans. The pods are edible and often used in culinary applications as a chocolate substitute. However, it is always advisable to monitor pets and children to prevent any potential choking hazards.Additional
The carob tree is known for its resilience and ability to thrive in poor soil conditions. It is also resistant to many pests and diseases, making it a relatively low-maintenance plant. The pods can be harvested in late summer or early autumn and used in various culinary applications.REVOLUTIONIZE YOUR PLANT CARE
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