Are you looking for a splash of color in your garden year-round? Look no further than the Cascalote tree, also known as 'Caesalpinia cacalaco' and Tara cacalaco! With over 70 species in the Caesalpinia genus, Caesalpinia cacalaco is well suited for southwest desert landscapes.  This evergreen small tree or shrub is native to tropical Mexico and boasts medium green leaves with alternate, bipinnate (compound leaves that grow opposite) arrangements.  

Plus, impress your friends by letting them know it was named after Andreas Caesalpinia - chief physician to Pope Clement VII! The name "cascalote" may come from the Nahuatl word "cascallotl," which means "hard shell. Cascalote" is a Spanish word that refers to the Caesalpinia cacalaco plant, also known as the Mexican or yellow bird of paradise. 

But don't be fooled by its beauty - the cascalote stems are usually thorny, similar to those of a pesky rose bush. And if thorns aren't your thing, fear not! It also has a cultivated variety called 'Smoothie' that has been bred for urban use and doesn't come with all those pesky thorns. However, these thorns are well worth it when you see the striking burst of bright yellow color that this plant produces in winter and spring! 

 In warm climates, this little guy stays evergreen with glossy green compound leaves that will elevate any landscape. The Caesalpinia cacalaco can grow up to 20 feet tall and 15 feet wide when mature, although it typically grows to be around 10-15 feet tall and wide.  

This large woody shrub can even be trained into a small patio tree.  Its seasonal pruning allows you to keep this beauty in its shrub form if you'd prefer. Additionally, Gallic and tannic acids, which are essential to the Mexican tannery industry, are abundant in cascalote.  

Watering Needs 

Like many other succulents, the cascalote requires moderate watering, which means that you should water it enough to keep the soil moist, but not too much that the soil becomes waterlogged. Overwatering the plant can lead to root rot and other problems. It's important to allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings, as this will help prevent issues with fungal diseases.  

During the plant's active growing season in spring and summer, it may require more frequent watering (3-4 weeks), while in the winter dormant season, it may require less water (2-3 weeks). By monitoring the plant closely and adjusting your watering schedule as needed, you can help ensure that it stays healthy and thrives. 

Light Requirements 

The cascalote tree requires a lot of sunlight to grow properly, which means that it needs to be placed in a location where it can receive at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. If you're growing the plant indoors, it's important to place it near a sunny window or under a grow light to ensure it's getting enough light.  

If you're growing the plant outdoors, make sure it's in a location that receives plenty of sunlight but is also protected from strong winds and extreme temperatures. This will help ensure that the plant stays healthy and can grow to its full potential. 

Low light can negatively affect Caesalpinia cacalaco growth and health, as it needs a lot of sunlight to grow properly. If the plant is not getting enough light, it may become leggy, meaning that it will grow tall and thin with fewer leaves and flowers. Additionally, the plant may not flower as well or may not flower at all if it's not getting enough light.  

Optimal Soil & Fertilizer Needs 

The cascalote likes very airy, porous, nutrient-rich soil with a pH of 5.6- 6.5. These succulents require fast-draining soil that dries completely between waterings. Your soil must have a sandy texture and a low water-holding capacity, just like desert soil.  Soggy wet soil can damage your succulent and contributes to bacterial and fungal rot. Ideally, you want to use our specialized succulent potting mix that contains over 10 natural substrates and organic mycorrhizae to promote the development of a strong root system that helps your succulent to thrive. 

And let's not forget about fertilizing! Your succulent only needs a tiny bit applied once a year in springtime with a natural fertilizer that has lower doses of NPK (5-10-5). No harsh chemicals here, folks - just pure, natural goodness that lasts longer and encourages nutrient absorption, so your succulent stays happy as a clam.  

So, go ahead and give your little guy some love with some awesomely balanced fertilizer because when it comes to soil and fertilizers, we know what works best! 

Hardiness Zones & More 

The cascalote requires sunny, warm climates to thrive, but they can withstand mild cold temperatures. Generally, these are hardy plants that can be grown in the garden in the USDA zone 8-11 and it is an excellent houseplant for beginners because it won't suffer if you neglect to water it for a while. 

If you live in a colder climate, you may need to protect the plant from frost or bring it indoors during the winter months. Additionally, it's important to make sure the succulent is in a location that is protected from strong winds, as this can also damage the Caesalpinia.  

If you're unsure what hardiness zone you're in, you can check with your local nursery or garden center, or look up your location on the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map. A cascalote tree succulent tends to live for many years and grows slowly. Plant them in the spring after the weather warms up. 

We think you will love this plant – order your very own Caesalpinia cacalaco - Cascalote tree today and start enjoying its beauty in no time!