Ceratonia siliqua is a slow-growing, evergreen tree with a lifespan of around 100 years. Native to the Eastern Mediterranean, it has been cultivated for over 4,000 years for its sweet pods and gum-rich seeds.

This hardy tree can reach a height of up to 8 meters and a spread of about 5 meters. It has a thick trunk, sturdy branches, and a broad, semi-spherical crown. Ceratonia siliqua is hermaphroditic, producing both male and female flowers on the same tree. The small flowers appear in clusters along the branches in autumn and are followed by firm, non-splitting pods. The tree usually starts to bear fruit after 6 to 7 years.

Carob trees grow well in various soils but thrive in well-drained loams with high lime content. Traditionally, the pods have been used in various ways: roasted and eaten as a snack, ground as a cocoa substitute, fermented to produce alcohol, or processed into carob syrup. The Carob tree is resilient against coastal winds and drought, this makes it a good choice for areas exposed to harsh winds. Its dense canopy can help reduce wind speed, providing shelter for more delicate plants or outdoor spaces. Due to its dense growth habit, the Carob tree is ideal for creating privacy screens or hedges. In South Africa’s rural or suburban areas, planting Carob trees in rows can provide a natural, attractive privacy barrier.