CERATONIA SILIQUA

Botanical Name: Ceratonia siliqua
Common Names: Carob Tree, Algarrobo
Light Requirements: Full sun
Soil Requirements: Well-drained soils; tolerates rocky, calcareous, and poor soils
Water Needs: Very low; highly drought-tolerant once established
Foliage: Dense, evergreen, glossy dark green foliage with leathery, pinnate leaves
Flowers: Small, reddish or greenish flowers appear in clusters in late summer or fall
Fruit: Long, dark brown pods (carobs) with sweet pulp; edible and used in food production
Growth Rate: Slow to moderate

Uses:

Ornamental Tree:
Ceratonia siliqua is admired for its dense, sculptural canopy and evergreen foliage, making it a valuable shade tree in dry, Mediterranean landscapes.

Xeriscaping:
A classic choice for low-water-use gardens, it thrives in arid climates and provides long-term structure and greenery with minimal irrigation.

Edible & Functional Tree:
Its carob pods are edible and valued for culinary and livestock uses, offering both ornamental and practical benefits.

Benefits:

Extreme Drought Tolerance:
Deep-rooted and adapted to harsh, dry environments with minimal water needs.

Low Maintenance:
Long-lived, pest-resistant, and tough; requires little pruning once established.

Ecological Contribution:
Provides shade, supports biodiversity, and contributes to soil improvement through nitrogen fixation.

Architectural Form:
Its wide, rounded canopy and bold foliage provide strong visual impact and functional shade.

Cold Hardy:
Tolerates light frost and is ideal for Mediterranean and semi-arid climates.

Ceratonia siliqua is a robust, long-lived tree that brings shade, edible fruit, and timeless beauty to sustainable landscapes. With minimal water needs and strong architectural presence, it is a smart and functional choice for dry-climate gardens.