PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Requires full sun for mature growth; young saplings tolerate partial shade to avoid scorching
Watering
Deep, infrequent watering once established; drought-tolerant when mature, with reduced need for supplemental water
Temperature
Thrives in warm tropical to subtropical climates; sensitive to frost, with damage occurring below 10°C
Characteristics
- Leaf: Bipinnate compound leaves with small oval leaflets that fold upward at night to reduce water loss.
- Flower: Fragrant, pale pink to white spherical flower heads clustered at branch tips.
- Fruit: Curved, woody seed pods resembling elephant ears, containing several large seeds.
- Stem/Bark: Thick, gray-brown trunk with shallow fissured bark; sturdy, wide-spreading branches forming an umbrella shape.
Care Guide
Watering
Deep watering every 7–10 days during active growth; avoid waterlogging
Fertilization
Apply slow-release balanced fertilizer once at budding. Avoid over-fertilization to prevent excessive foliage growth at the expense of canopy structure
Banana peel compost tea：Compost banana peels for 2 weeks, steep in water for 24 hours, dilute 1:20 with water for root drenching; avoid applying directly to foliagePruning
- Remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches in late winter to maintain canopy health and shape.
- Trim lower branches as the tree matures to clear ground space and improve air circulation.
- Avoid heavy pruning, as the tree has a naturally spreading, umbrella-like growth habit.
- Remove fallen seed pods periodically to reduce litter in landscaped areas.
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: No listed toxicity to cats
Humans: No documented toxicity to humans; seeds are non-toxic if processed properly
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: National tree of Costa Rica; symbolizes community, strength, and shelter in Central American cultures
Usage: Large shade tree for parks and large landscapes; durable wood used for furniture and construction
