Caesalpinia or Leopard Tree
A widely used street tree Caesalpinia ferrea is commonly called the Leopard Tree, an evergreen tree or semi deciduous tree growing from 6-12m depending on conditions.
Originally from Brazil the Leopard Tree has smooth creamy coloured bark and dark green foliage that forms an umbrella shaped canopy.
Used for many years in Queensland as a street tree, this is a species that can easily be pruned to maintain a suitable size.
Deep green foliage and golden yellow flowers in spring. It is the colour of the trunk, a dappled or spotted grey that gives the tree its name. Flowers are followed by large burnished seed pods.
This is a drought tolerant tree once established, a deep root system and regarded as not only drought tolerant, but also frost hardy.
The root system leads us to the conclusion that it is best suited to larger parks and gardens where they will not be a problem.
Summary
- Height – The Leopard Tree will reach 20 metres, however is usually pruned to around 8 to 10 metres
- Spread – Over time the tree will develop a broad spreading canopy to 5 – 8 metres.
- Foliage – Evergreen or semi deciduous. Foliage is deep green fern like, turning to red in autumn. New growth follows at the dame time.
- Distinguishing features – The spotted or dappled creamy white and grey bark which gives it the common name.
- Flowers – Brilliant yellow.
- Growth rate – Fast in good conditions.
- Drought tolerant – Yes once established.
- Frost tolerant – Yes.
Problems
One problem is the root system which is vigorous and can invade drainage lines and sewers. A second issue is the ongoing litter problem from falling leaves and seed pods.