Tipu Tree (Tipuana tipu)

Tipu Tree

Tipuana tipu

Golden blooms flood summer canopies with warm light. Fast-growing deciduous tree; common names: Tipu Tree, Pride of Bolivia.

Full sun
1–2/week
Moderate
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Full sun to partial shade; tolerates intense summer heat and mild drought
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Watering Deep, infrequent watering; allow top 15–20 cm of soil to dry between waterings
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Temperature Hardy to 5°C; protect young trees from frost damage
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Pinnately compound, 10–20 cm long; oval bright green leaflets that turn yellow in fall
  • Flower: Clusters of fragrant golden-yellow pea-like blooms
  • Stem/Bark: Light brown, smooth when young, becoming fissured with age; produces winged seed pods
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Care Guide

Watering

Deeply water every 7 days during active growth; avoid waterlogging

Fertilization

Diluted balanced fertilizer once monthly. Avoid over-fertilization to prevent excessive weak growth

Banana peel compost tea:Compost banana peels for 2–3 months, dilute 1:20 with water for root drench; avoid raw peels to prevent pest issues
Pruning
  • Remove dead, crossing, or damaged branches in late winter to maintain canopy shape
  • Thin dense inner growth to improve airflow and light penetration
  • Trim suckers at the base to prevent overcrowding and redirect growth
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: Non-toxic to cats

Humans: No known toxic effects to humans

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: Symbolizes resilience in arid regions; widely planted as a shade tree for public spaces

Usage: Ornamental shade tree; durable wood used for furniture in native regions