Enterolobium cyclocarpum, Ear Tree

This document provides an overview of the Enterolobium cyclocarpum, commonly known as the ear tree. Native to Mexico, Central America, and northern South America, this deciduous tree thrives in various soil types and warm, moist climates. It features light green, bipinnately compound leaves, and produces distinctive semicircular seedpods resembling ears. The ear tree is valued for its shade, especially on coffee plantations and cattle ranches, and its heartwood is used in furniture making due to its resistance to fungus and termites. However, it is susceptible to limb breakage during storms and is not tolerant of salty conditions. Original publication date July 2012.