Carrotwood Tree | Evergreen Shade Ornamental Tree

CarrotWood

15 Gallon·Stand

$169.00

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CarrotWood

Cupaniopsis anacardiodes

Fast-Growing Coastal Evergreen • Tolerant of Salt, Wind & Drought • Known Invasive Potential

$169.00

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Bay Area–Based Nursery

We specialize in plants grown and delivered in their original pots and soil.
Because of their size and weight, our plants are not suitable for long-distance shipping and are delivered locally to ensure health and quality.

While delivery is limited to our local service area, we’re happy to support garden design and plant selection remotely.

For local plant professionals, we’re always glad to connect and explore ways to support your customers.

CarrotWood is a fast-growing, broadleaf evergreen tree valued for its dense, glossy foliage, attractive orange fruit, and high tolerance for coastal conditions, salt, and drought. However, it is critical for Bay Area gardeners to know that this tree is listed as a Category I Invasive Species in Florida due to its prolific seed production and ability to spread into natural areas. While it has been used as a street tree in some California coastal cities, its planting is increasingly discouraged, and native or non-invasive alternatives are strongly recommended.

Forms a dense, rounded canopy of glossy, dark green compound leaves, providing substantial evergreen shade and windbreak.
Produces showy clusters of bright orange to yellow seed capsules in winter and spring, which are ornamental but contribute to its weedy potential.
Exhibits excellent tolerance to coastal conditions, including salt spray, wind, and sandy, well-drained soils. It is also highly drought-tolerant once established.
Grows rapidly, providing quick screening or shade.
Major Consideration: The tree produces a large amount of fruit containing seeds that are readily spread by birds and water. It has demonstrated invasive tendencies in climates similar to parts of California (notably coastal Southern California).

Knowing how we measure the size?

When browsing our plants, you may notice size terms such as Gallon, Multi, or Stand. These describe how a plant is grown, containerized, or structured at the time of sale — not just its height. Understanding these terms will help you choose the right plant for your space and expectations.

🌱 Gallon Size (Container Size)

Gallon refers to the size of the nursery container the plant is currently growing in (e.g. 1 Gallon, 5 Gallon, 15 Gallon).

A larger gallon size generally means:
- A more established root system
- A sturdier plant
- Faster visual impact after planting
Example:
- 5 Gallon: Ideal for residential gardens, easy to handle, good balance of value and maturity
- 15 Gallon: More mature, provides quicker results in the landscape

Note: Gallon size does not guarantee a specific height, as growth varies by species.

🌳 Multi (Multi-Trunk / Multi-Branch Form)

Multi indicates the plant has multiple trunks or main stems growing from the base.

Commonly used for:
- Ornamental trees
- Feature plants
- Japanese maples, olives, crepe myrtles, etc.
Why choose Multi:
- Fuller, more sculptural appearance
- Strong visual presence even at younger ages
- Popular for design-focused landscapes

🌲 Stand (Single-Trunk / Standard Form)

Stand (short for Standard) refers to a single, dominant trunk with a raised or naturally formed canopy.

Commonly used for:
- Shade trees
- Street trees
- Orchard and structural plantings
Why choose Stand:
- Clean, classic tree form
- Easier clearance for walkways and lawns
- Preferred for long-term structure and uniformity

🌿 Choosing the Right Size

If you want instant impact → larger Gallon, Multi form
If you want long-term structure → Stand form
If you want flexibility and value → mid-size Gallon containers

If you’re unsure which size or form fits your project, our team is happy to help you select the best option based on your space, timeline, and design goals.

Features:Foliage: Pinnate compound leaves with 6-10 leathery, oblong leaflets (2-4" long) featuring distinctive notched tips.Flowers: Small greenish-white blooms in winter panicles.Fruit: Showy orange-yellow capsules splitting to reveal black seeds.Bark: Attractive mottled gray-brown with vertical ridges
Mature Size:Height: 30-40 ft.Width: 20-30 ft
Growth Rate: Fast (2-3 ft/year)
Light Needs: Full sun to partial shade
Key Advantages:Exceptional salt spray tolerance.Drought resistant once established.Wind firm.Low litter
Landscape Uses:Coastal street tree.Parking lot plantings.Windbreaks.Mediterranean gardens

Q: Is it illegal to plant CarrotWood in California?A:It isnot currently state-listed as invasive in California, but it is on theCalifornia Invasive Plant Council's (Cal-IPC) "Watch List"due to its invasive behavior in other regions with similar Mediterranean climates. Many local municipalities and nurseries discourage or have discontinued its sale and planting.It is illegal to plant in San Francisco.Always check with your local nursery or agricultural extension for the most current local guidelines.

Q: Are the fruits really edible?A:Yes, the fleshy orange aril surrounding the seed is edible and sweet, known as "Tuckeroo" in its native Australia. However,the seeds themselves are toxic and should not be consumed.Extreme caution is advised, especially around children.