Țară cacalaco, Caesalpinia cacalaco
Flowers: J F M A M J J A S O N D
Status: Near native
Origin: Latin America north into Central Mexico
Family: Fabaceae (Leguminosae)
Size: 15 – 25′
Sun: Full and reflected heat
Watering: Infrequent, deep watering
Growth Rate: Moderate
Soil: Tolerant
Temperature: Hardy to 18 F
Pruning:
Disease and Pests: Psyllid which is a tiny insect that sucks on the leaves causing the tree to lose its leaves. Look closely at the leaves and you will see little white dots and shiny honeydew on the leaves. The best method to take care of this problem is to diagnose it quickly and spray off the leaves with a strong jet of water every day to help prevent more leaf loss.
Uses: Nectar plant for bees, attracts hummingbirds. Decorative red-brown seed pods
Notes: Briefly deciduous in spring after blooming. Thorny (except the ‘Smoothy’ cultivar)
Resources
More on PollinatorWeb: every plant page A–Z · recommended plants for the low desert · which butterflies and moths each plant hosts
Gardens and Landscapes: Transform your garden into a gallery of personalized narratives, providing valuable information to both seasoned gardeners and curious visitors.
Public Spaces and Parks: Enhance the educational aspect of public spaces by introducing engraved tags. Create interactive learning experiences that engage and inform visitors about the diverse flora and fauna in the area.
Commercial Landscapes: For businesses looking to add a touch of sophistication to their outdoor spaces, and to communicate your commitment to nature.
Nature Reserves and Conservation Areas: Support conservation efforts by providing informative markers in nature reserves. Raise awareness about the importance of biodiversity and conservation.
Educational Institutions: Create interactive outdoor classrooms by incorporating these tags into educational institutions. Foster a love for nature and a thirst for knowledge among students of all ages.
I engrave these by hand in Phoenix, Arizona — acrylic stakes for beds and borders, aluminum tags for the harshest conditions, and hanging tags for grafted trees. See the full range at Cactus Shack Studio →
