Guanacaste Enterolobium cyclocarpum 10 Seeds USA Company

Enterolobium cyclocarpum, commonly known as the "earpod tree," "guanacaste," or "monkey ear pod," is a species of flowering tree in the pea family, Fabaceae. It is native to Mexico, Central America, and northern South America. The tree is notable for its large, circular seed pods, which resemble ears and can measure up to 20 centimeters (8 inches) in diameter. The seeds within these pods are edible and are sometimes used as food for livestock. Enterolobium cyclocarpum is also valued for its ornamental qualities and is planted as a shade tree in parks and along roadsides in some regions. Additionally, it plays a role in traditional medicine and has been studied for its potential pharmacological properties. Hardy in zones 9-12.

Growing Instructions for the Guanacaste

The seeds have a hard seed coat that has to be treated, or scarified, in order for water to enter the seeds so that they can sprout. 1. Scarify the seeds by nicking or sanding the seed coat. The seeds can be sanded with sandpaper, a nail file or an emery board. 2. Soak the seeds in water for 24 hours. 3. Put a mixture of potting soil and sand or perlite into a pot with drainage holes in the base. 4. Sow the seeds on the soil. 5. Cover the seeds with a layer of soil that is ½ of an inch thick. 6. Water the seeds. Keep the soil moist but not wet. 7. The seeds take 2-4 weeks to germinate. 8. When the plants are a few inches tall, they can be transplanted.