Carob Ceratonia siliqua
ABOUT
The plant known as the carob tree is an evergreen species that boasts dense and glossy green leaves, which are pinnate with leaflets that appear in pairs along the stem. The leaves have a leathery texture, contributing to their shiny appearance. The carob tree blooms with small, red-tinted flowers arranged in clusters; these are often inconspicuous compared to the foliage. After the flowering period, the plant produces elongated, pod-like fruits known as carob pods. The pods change from green to a dark brown as they mature and are known for being sweet and edible. The carob tree's bark is rough and brown, adding to the tree's overall aesthetic with a rugged and textured look.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Fabaceae.
Synonyms
Carob, St John's-bread, Locust Bean, Locust Tree, Carob Tree.
Common names
Ceratonia siliqua L.
ToxicityTo humans
The plant Ceratonia siliqua, commonly known as the carob tree, is not toxic to humans. In fact, the pods are often processed and used as a chocolate substitute in various food products because they are naturally sweet. Carob is also used in health products for its potential benefits. There are no known toxic consequences of ingesting carob by humans.
To pets
The carob tree is also generally considered non-toxic to pets. The ripe pods can be eaten by dogs and are sometimes used as an ingredient in dog treats as a safe alternative to chocolate, which is harmful to dogs. There are no commonly reported symptoms of poisoning in pets from ingesting carob from the Ceratonia siliqua tree.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Red
Height
32 feet [10 meters]
Spread
33 feet [10 meters]
Plant type
Tree
Hardiness zones
9
Native area
Mediterranean
Benefits
General Benefits- Nutritional Value: Ceratonia siliqua, commonly known as the carob tree, produces carob pods that are rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
- Food Source: The pods can be ground into carob powder, which is used as a cocoa substitute in various food products.
- Forage for Livestock: The leaves and pods serve as a valuable source of fodder for animals, particularly in arid regions.
- Shade and Ornamental Use: With its dense foliage, the carob tree is often planted for shade and as an ornamental tree in landscapes.
- Erosion Control: The carob tree has a strong root system that helps to prevent soil erosion, especially in dry and rocky areas.
- Low Water Requirement: Being drought-resistant, it requires minimal watering, making it suitable for xeriscaping and arid climate gardening.
- Soil Improvement: The carob tree can improve soil fertility through its nitrogen-fixing abilities, enhancing the soil for other plants.
- Biodiversity Support: The tree provides habitat and food for various wildlife species, including birds and insects.
- Cultural and Historical Significance: The carob tree has cultural importance in many societies and is often associated with various traditions and folklore.
Medical Properties- Antioxidant activity: Carob (Ceratonia siliqua) extracts have been found to have antioxidant properties, protecting cells from damage caused by free radicals.
- Anti-diarrheal effects: Carob is traditionally used in some cultures to treat diarrhea due to its high content of tannins which can reduce secretion and have an astringent effect.
- Antimicrobial properties: Carob pod extracts have shown inhibitory activity against certain pathogenic bacteria and fungi, potentially offering an alternative treatment for infections.
- Blood sugar regulation: Some studies indicate that carob may have a beneficial effect on blood sugar control, making it a food of interest for managing diabetes.
- Gastrointestinal health: Carob's high fiber content can help with digestive health, potentially relieving symptoms of indigestion and improving gut motility.
- Lowering cholesterol levels: Its fiber content may also help lower cholesterol levels by binding with cholesterol in the digestive system and preventing its absorption.
- Antiallergic properties: There's some evidence suggesting that carob may have antiallergic effects, though more research is needed to confirm these benefits.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- The seeds of the carob tree can be used as animal fodder, particularly for livestock such as sheep, goats, and horses, due to their high sugar and protein content.
- Carob pods are sometimes used to make alcohol, such as carob brandy or carob fruit wine, through fermentation processes.
- The carob wood is hard and durable, making it suitable for woodworking or turning on a lathe to create decorative objects or utensils.
- The bark and leaves can be used in tanning, imparting color and preserving qualities to leather goods.
- Carob tree parts have applications in natural dyes, providing colors for textiles ranging from brown to green hues.
- In landscape design, the carob tree is valued for its ornamental features and is often planted in parks and large gardens for shade and aesthetic appeal.
- Due to their high sugar content and sweetness, carob pods can be used as feed in beekeeping to support honey production.
- Eco-friendly ink can be produced from carob pods, as they contain tannins and natural colorants.
- The carob tree's extensive root system makes it effective for soil stabilization and combating erosion in arid climates.
- Carob pods can be used to craft musical instruments such as rattles or as components in percussion instruments due to their hard shells.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Carob is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Carob is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Abundance: The Ceratonia siliqua, commonly known as the carob tree, is known for its rich pods that have historically been a source of sustenance, symbolizing abundance and plenty.
- Nourishment: As the carob pods are edible and nutritious, they often represent physical and spiritual nourishment.
- Sweetness: Carob has a natural sweetness and is sometimes used as a chocolate substitute, making it symbolic of life's sweetness and pleasures.
- Fertility: With its prolific pod production, the carob tree is a symbol of fertility and renewal.
- Durability: The carob tree's hardy nature and ability to survive in arid conditions are emblematic of durability and resilience.
- Patience: The tree takes years to bear fruit, representing a sense of patience and the rewards of waiting.
- Stolidity: Due to its sturdy and robust trunk, the carob tree is often associated with stolidity and strength.
WaterThe carob tree, commonly known as Ceratonia siliqua, requires minimal watering once established, as it is drought-tolerant. Young trees need watering every one to two weeks, with about 2 gallons per session to encourage a deep root system. Mature trees may only require additional watering during extremely dry conditions. It's best to water deeply and infrequently, to mimic natural rainfall. The amount of water can be reduced during the winter when the tree is dormant.
LightThe carob tree thrives in full sunlight, making it an ideal plant for open, sunny spots in the garden. It needs at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day to perform optimally. This sunlight need makes it well-suited to Mediterranean climates or similar warm, sunny regions.
TemperatureThe carob tree is adapted to a Mediterranean climate and prefers temperatures between 50°F and 80°F but can withstand brief periods of frost and temperatures as low as 20°F. It can survive high temperatures well above 100°F, making it suitable for hot climates. The ideal temperature range for its growth is between 65°F and 80°F.
PruningPruning the carob tree is generally done to maintain a desired shape and remove dead or diseased branches. It's best to prune the tree in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Pruning can be done every few years as the carob tree does not require frequent trimming. The pruning process helps to improve air circulation and light penetration, which benefits the tree's health and productivity.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe carob tree (Ceratonia siliqua) thrives in well-draining soil with a slightly acidic to slightly alkaline pH range of 6.0 to 8.5. An ideal mix would include equal parts of garden soil, peat, and perlite or sand to ensure good drainage.
RepottingCarob trees, being slow growers, do not require frequent repotting. Repot young trees every 2 to 3 years; mature carob trees can be repotted every 4 to 5 years or as necessary.
Humidity & MistingThe carob tree is tolerant to various humidity levels and does well in typical outdoor humidity conditions; excessive humidity is not necessary.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Provide full light, ample space, and avoid overwatering carobs indoors.
Outdoor
Plant carobs in full sun, well-drained soil, and protect from cold winds.
Hardiness zone
9-11 USDA
Life cycleCeratonia siliqua, commonly known as the carob tree, begins its life cycle when a fertilized seed is sown and starts to germinate, often requiring warm temperatures and moist soil conditions. After germination, the seedling emerges and growth begins; this stage can be slow as the carob tree invests energy into developing a strong root system. As the plant matures, it enters the vegetative stage, characterized by the elongation of the stems and the growth of compound leaves, giving the carob tree its distinctive foliage. The carob tree has a long juvenile phase and may not begin flowering for several years; when it does, the trees exhibit dioecious reproductive behavior, with separate male and female trees producing small, inconspicuous flowers. Once pollinated, often by wind or insects, the female flowers develop into large, leathery pods that contain the edible carob seeds, which are the primary means of reproduction for the carob tree. The mature carob tree can live for well over a hundred years, continuing to produce fruit annually, and thus completes its life cycle.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to early summer
The most common method for propagating the carob tree (Ceratonia siliqua) is by seed. To successfully propagate carob trees, one should sow the seeds in the fall or early spring. The seeds are exceptionally hard and require pretreatment to improve germination rates; this can be done by soaking them in water for 24 hours. After soaking, the seeds should be sown in well-draining soil at a depth of about 1 inch (2.54 cm), and then the soil should be kept consistently moist until germination, which can take several weeks to a few months. Once the seedlings have emerged and grown strong enough, they can be transplanted to their final growing locations, ensuring they are placed in full sun and in soil that does not retain excessive water to avoid root rot.
