Carrotwood Tree

Carrotwood is an evergreen Australian tree with a rounded crown, glossy compound leaves, inconspicuous pale flowers, and capsules that open to expose colorful seeds. It can be durable in warm urban sites, but its invasive behavior makes local rules and ecological context essential before planting. ## Size and siting UF/IFAS gives a mature height and spread of 25–35 feet, a rounded crown, and USDA Zones 10A–11. Small lime-green to white flowers appear in late winter or early spring, followed by fruit that ripens in spring and attracts birds. The seed is readily dispersed, which is why UF/IFAS warns against planting carrotwood in Florida and urges caution in other warm coastal regions. The Florida Department of Agriculture describes its spread into natural areas and displacement of native vegetation. The [UF/IFAS profile](https://ask.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/ST221) covers size, hardiness, and culture; see the [Florida Department of Agriculture](https://www.fdacs.gov/Agriculture-Industry/Pests-and-Diseases/Plant-Pests-and-Diseases/Noxious-Weeds/Cupaniopsis-anacardioides-Carrotwood) for its invasive history. ## Maintenance Where planting is permitted and appropriate, establish a strong structure early and prune selectively. Collect fallen fruit where practical to limit seed spread; confirm current local restrictions before planting.