The monkeypod is a native
of tropical America that attains heights of 80 feet or more with a wide
symmetrical canopy. This is definitely not a tree for small confined
areas. Another local characteristic is the surface roots, which cause
maintenance problems or cause damage to nearby structures. The beautiful
flowers are tufts of pink and white stamens. Each leaf consists of four to
eight paired leaflets that fold in the late afternoon for the night or
during inclement weather and cloudy days. The leaves drop in February and
March when the long black pods can easily be seen. The wood is popular with
woodworkers. It is however listed as a pest plant to Hawaiian native
ecosystems.
The monkeypod is a native
of tropical America that attains heights of 80 feet or more with a wide
symmetrical canopy. This is definitely not a tree for small confined
areas. Another local characteristic is the surface roots, which cause
maintenance problems or cause damage to nearby structures. The beautiful
flowers are tufts of pink and white stamens. Each leaf consists of four to
eight paired leaflets that fold in the late afternoon for the night or
during inclement weather and cloudy days. The leaves drop in February and
March when the long black pods can easily be seen. The wood is popular with
woodworkers. It is however listed as a pest plant to Hawaiian native
ecosystems.