The Story
Plant Bio
Cupaniopsis anacardioides, commonly known as carrotwood, is an evergreen tree forming a dense, rounded canopy of leathery, deep green compound leaves. Small, inconspicuous greenish-yellow flowers emerge on axillary panicles, followed by bright orange-yellow seed capsules that split to reveal bird-attracting red arils.
This species is highly valued for its exceptional wind, salt, and drought tolerance, making it highly adaptable to coastal environments. However, its aggressive seeding has led to its classification as a severe invasive weed in Florida, where it rapidly displaces native coastal vegetation.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Tree
Height
433"
Width
315"
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
9, 10
Water
Low to Moderate
Humidity
High
Lifespan
Long
Native To
Australia, New Guinea
Toxicity
Non-toxic
Bloom period
Spring – Summer
In flower about 6 months of the year
Planting
How to Grow
- Select a planting site in full sun to partial shade with well-draining soil, though it tolerates occasional wet periods once established.
- Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball and set the tree at the same depth it was growing in the nursery container.
- Water deeply and regularly during the first growing season to establish a deep, drought-tolerant root system.
- Apply a thin layer of organic mulch around the base to retain moisture, keeping it several inches away from the trunk.
Pro Tip
Establish young trees with regular water and standard balanced fertilizer; unlike many Australian natives, this species is not phosphorus-sensitive and thrives with moderate soil nutrients.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly during the first year to ensure deep root establishment.
- Prune lightly in late winter or spring to shape the canopy or clear lower branches.
- Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer sparingly when the tree is young.
Don't
- Do not plant this species in Florida or adjacent coastal areas where it is a regulated invasive weed.
- Do not prune heavily into old, leafless wood, as recovery is slow and patchy.
- Do not allow young trees to experience heavy frosts, which can cause severe dieback.
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Pest Check | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Prune |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Carrotwood questions
What zones can Carrotwood grow in?
Carrotwood is hardy in USDA Zones 9–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Carrotwood deer resistant?
Not reliably. Deer may browse Carrotwood, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.
When does Carrotwood bloom?
Carrotwood typically blooms in spring through summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Carrotwood need full sun?
Carrotwood does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Carrotwood drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Carrotwood handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Carrotwood with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.