Ceratonia Siliqua 50lt
Common Name: Carob Tree, Locust Tree

Full Sun
Semi Shade
Medium Watering
Drought Resistant
Evergreen Tree

Ceratonia siliqua, commonly known as the carob tree, is a flowering evergreen tree in the Fabaceae family. It is native to the Mediterranean region, including parts of Southern Europe, Northern Africa, and the Middle East.

Botanical Characteristics

Leaves: The carob tree has compound leaves with 4-10 oval leaflets that are glossy and dark green.
Flowers: The tree produces small, red-tinted flowers that are either male, female, or hermaphroditic.
Fruit: The carob tree is best known for its edible pods, which are long, brown, and leathery. These pods contain a sweet pulp and several hard seeds.

Growing Conditions

Climate: Carob trees thrive in warm, dry climates typical of the Mediterranean region. They are drought-tolerant and can grow in poor soils.
Soil: While they prefer well-drained, sandy, or loamy soils, carob trees can also grow in rocky and less fertile soils.
Watering: Carob trees are highly drought-resistant once established, requiring minimal water.

Uses

Culinary: The pods are often ground into carob powder, which is used as a cocoa substitute in various recipes, including baked goods, beverages, and confectionery. The seeds are used to produce locust bean gum, a common thickening agent in food products.
Animal Feed: The pods are also used as livestock feed due to their high nutritional content.
Other Uses: The wood of the carob tree is hard and can be used for carpentry, while the leaves and pods have been used in traditional medicine.

Nutritional and Health Benefits

Nutrient-Rich: Carob is high in fibre, calcium, and antioxidants. It is low in fat and does not contain caffeine or theobromine, making it a suitable chocolate alternative for people sensitive to these substances.
Digestive Health: The high fibre content aids in digestion and can help regulate blood sugar levels.
Heart Health: The antioxidants in carob can contribute to cardiovascular health by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation.

Carob trees are valued not only for their versatility and nutritional benefits but also for their ecological role in sustainable agriculture, especially in arid and semi-arid regions.