Tara spinosa, commonly known as tara (Quechua), also known as Peruvian carob or spiny holdback, is a small leguminous tree or thorny shrub native to Peru. T. spinosa is cultivated as a source of tannins based on a galloylated quinic acid structure. This chemical structure has been confirmed also by LC-MS. It is also grown as an ornamental plant because of its large colorful flowers and pods.
Spiny holdback is resistant to disease and is generally not susceptible to illnesses. Regarding care, this plant is fairly low-maintenance. When grown outdoors it needs only minimal watering, and larger plants typically do not need pruning. Smaller plants, however, should be pruned after they finish blooming. Spiny holdback is suitable for anyone with an outdoor area, such as a garden or deck, and does not require extensive care experience.
How to keep Caesalpinia Spinosa.
Light
Spiny holdback comes from open environments, like sunny meadows and forest edges, where there is abundant light. It does best in Full Sun but can also tolerate Partial Sun, adjusting well to different light conditions.
Temperature
Spiny holdback comes from tropical areas, where the climate is generally warm and humid. Consequently, it is well suited to high heat and moisture. It does not tolerate sudden temperature shifts and prefers a steady temperature, so indoor temperature swings should be avoided. It usually cannot withstand cold and needs warmer temperatures to grow. If the surrounding temperature falls too low, the plant may stop growing or even die.
Fertilizer
The ideal time to fertilize a Spiny holdback is in early spring when it comes out of dormancy. This encourages overall growth and flower development. Fertilization improves the foliage, stems, and branches and promotes large, vibrant, long-lasting flowers. It helps move nutrients from the roots to the flowers and strengthens the plant's health and resistance to disease.
Botanical profile.
- Plant Type
- Shrub
- Life Cycle
- Perennial
- Genus
- Caesalpinia
- Family
- Leguminosae
- Hardiness Zone
- 9-11
- Mature Height
- 4.88 m to 10.06 m
- Mature Spread
- 3.96 m to 6.1 m
- Leaf Color
- Dark Green
- Leaf Type
- Evergreen
- Flower Color
- Yellow, White
- Flower Size
- 1.02 cm to 2.03 cm
- Bloom Time
- Summer, Early fall, Mid fall
- Planting Time
- Spring, Summer, Autumn
- Harvest Time
- Fall, Early winter, Mid winter
Other names.
