What is the best soil for Enterolobium cyclocarpum?
Enterolobium cyclocarpum is adaptable to various soil types but thrives best in well-drained, fertile loamy soils. Good drainage is crucial to prevent root rot.
Monkeysoap (Enterolobium cyclocarpum)
Enterolobium cyclocarpum, the Elephant Ear Tree, is a large, fast-growing tropical tree with distinctive ear-shaped seed pods and a broad canopy.
Above information is sourced from Wikipedia
Sunlight
Prefers full sun for best growth and flowering.
Watering
Water regularly, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Soil
Tolerant of various soil types, but prefers well-drained, fertile loams.
Temperature
Thrives in warm temperatures between 20-30°C.
Habitat
Outdoor
Fertilizer
Feed with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season.
Care Requirements
Light
Prefers full sun for best growth and flowering.
Can tolerate partial shade but may become leggy.
Water
Water regularly, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Reduce watering in cooler months.
Soil
Tolerant of various soil types, but prefers well-drained, fertile loams.
Temperature
Thrives in warm temperatures between 20-30°C.
Protect from frost; it is not cold-hardy.
Habitat
Outdoor
Fertilizer
Feed with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season.
Avoid over-fertilizing.
Plant Overview
Plant Type
Tree
Plant Category
Foliage, Ornamental
Plant Place Type
Ground
Plant Environment
Outdoor
Lifespan
Perennials
Plant Height
15-30 m
Spread
15-25 m
Growth Rate
Fast
Dormancy
None in tropical climates
Leaf Color
Green
Leaf Type
Compound, bipinnate
Flower Size
1-1.5 cm
Optimal Sunlight Lux
70000
Image Gallery
Flowering & Fruiting Cycles
Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Northern hemisphere
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Peak bloom · JunPeak fruit · Jun
FloweringFruiting
Southern hemisphere
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Peak bloom · JulPeak fruit · Jul
FloweringFruiting
Synonyms
Albizia longipes Britton & Killip
Feuilleea cyclocarpa (Jacq.) Kuntze
Inga cyclocarpa (Jacq.) Willd.
Mimosa cyclocarpa Jacq.
Mimosa parota Sessé & Moc.
Pithecellobium cyclocarpum (Jacq.) Mart.
Prosopis dubia Kunth
Taxonomy
- kingdomPlantae
- divisionTracheophyta
- classMagnoliopsida
- orderFabales
- familyFabaceae
- genusEnterolobium
- speciesEnterolobium cyclocarpum
Toxicity
Toxic for humans
No
Rating: 0/5
Toxic for pets
No
Rating: 0/5
Edible
No
Non-toxic to pets and humans.
Additional Care Tips
Provide consistent moisture, allowing the top few centimeters of soil to dry out between waterings. Reduce watering in cooler months.
Prune to shape the tree, remove dead or crossing branches, and manage size. Heavy pruning is best done in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
Easily propagated from seeds sown in spring. Cuttings can also be taken from semi-hardwood in summer. Ensure seeds are fresh for best germination rates.
As a large tree, repotting is generally not applicable. For container-grown specimens, repot every 2-3 years into a larger container with fresh potting mix.
FAQs
How often should I water an Elephant Ear Tree?
Water regularly, especially during dry spells, ensuring the soil is moist but not waterlogged. Allow the top inch or two of soil to dry out between waterings.
Is Enterolobium cyclocarpum suitable for small gardens?
No, Enterolobium cyclocarpum is a very large tree that requires ample space to grow to its full potential. It is best suited for parks or large landscapes.
When does the Elephant Ear Tree bloom?
The Elephant Ear Tree typically blooms in late spring to early summer, producing clusters of fragrant, creamy-white flowers.
Does Enterolobium cyclocarpum attract wildlife?
Yes, its flowers attract pollinators like bees, and its seeds may be consumed by some wildlife. It provides valuable shade and habitat.