Ceratonia siliqua
Ceratonia siliqua L.
Carob is an ancient Mediterranean tree producing sweet edible pods used for millennia as food and medicine. The remarkably uniform seeds were historically used as the original carat weight for gemstones, and the nutritious pods remain a chocolate alternative today.
Fabaceae (Pea family, Leguminosae)
Fall to winter (September-November), often on bare wood
Symbolism & Meanings
Key Meanings
Perfect For
Color Meanings
Similar flowers: ballotas and convolvuluss also share similar meanings.
Cultural Significance
Carob has profound historical and cultural significance dating back thousands of years. The tree is believed to be the "locust" that sustained John the Baptist in the wilderness, hence the name St. John's Bread. The remarkably uniform seeds were used in ancient times as the original "carat" unit for weighing gemstones and gold. One carob seed weighs approximately 200mg, establishing the carat weight still used today. Ancient Egyptians used carob pods and leaves for food and medicine. The sweet pods sustained populations during sieges and famines. In Judaism, carob is associated with Tu BiShvat celebrations. The tree symbolizes resilience, surviving for centuries in harsh Mediterranean conditions. Carob powder is a healthy chocolate substitute valued for being caffeine-free and naturally sweet.Shop Our Floral Collection
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Physical Characteristics
Natural Habitat
Growing Guide
Sunlight
Full sun (6+ hours)
Water
Low water needs, excellent drought tolerance once established
Soil
Well-drained, Rocky, Poor to moderately fertile, Alkaline tolerant, Limestone acceptable (pH 6.5-8.5)
Expert Growing Tips
Slow-growing but extremely long-lived (can live 100+ years)
Requires both male and female trees for pod production (dioecious)
Thrives in hot, dry conditions
Very drought tolerant once established
Tolerates poor, rocky soil
Hardy in zones 9-11
Prune lightly to maintain shape
Grafted cultivars ensure pod production
Pods take 10-11 months to mature
Uses & Benefits
Ornamental Uses
- Specimen tree for Mediterranean landscapes
- Street tree in arid climates
- Shade tree
- Xeriscape and drought-tolerant gardens
- Edible landscaping
- Historical and biblical gardens
Traditional Uses
- High in fiber, supporting digestive health
- Rich in calcium, magnesium, and antioxidants
- Traditionally used for diarrhea and stomach ailments
- Tannins have astringent properties
- Used in cough syrups and lozenges
- Lower in fat and caffeine-free, unlike chocolate
- May help manage blood sugar levels
Disclaimer: Information provided is for educational purposes only. Consult healthcare professionals before using any plant medicinally.
Further Reading
Frequently Asked Questions about the Ceratonia siliqua
What does carob taste like?
Carob has a naturally sweet, mild chocolate-like flavor with earthy, slightly nutty notes. It is less bitter than cocoa and naturally sweet due to high sugar content (up to 50 percent).
Why is it called carat?
The carat unit for gemstones comes from carob seeds, which were used in ancient times as standardized weights because of their remarkable uniformity. One carob seed weighs approximately 200mg, establishing the modern carat.
Is carob healthier than chocolate?
Carob is naturally sweet, caffeine-free, lower in fat, and higher in fiber and calcium than chocolate. However, processed carob products may contain added sugars and fats. Pure carob powder is nutritious.
Is carob the locust that John the Baptist ate?
Many scholars believe the locusts that sustained John the Baptist were actually carob pods, hence the name St. John's Bread. The sweet, nutritious pods would have been available in the wilderness.
How long does it take for carob trees to produce pods?
Carob trees typically take 6-8 years to begin producing pods, with full production starting around 12-15 years. Trees are long-lived and can produce for over 100 years once mature.
Available Colors
Quick Facts
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