We’re in South Florida, and of course, we love our tropical foliage trees. We’re blessed with a wide variety of options. However, choosing the right tree for landscaping isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s also about resilience. That’s why it’s important to select wisely. So, if you’re considering investing in resilient tropical foliage trees that add texture, color, and dimension to your design while creating a balanced and diverse landscape, keep reading.
What are Tropical Foliage trees?
Even though we’re in South Florida, and the definition might seem straightforward, it’s important to describe what tropical foliage trees are. This tree category is naturally found in tropical and subtropical climates. They thrive in warm, humid environments with plenty of rainfall. Some of their key features include broad, leathery, or glossy leaves that help them absorb maximum sunlight in their native environments, such as the Pacific Almond tree (Terminalia catappa) or various species of magnolias.
Another key feature is that most tropical foliage trees are evergreen, meaning they maintain their leaves year-round, providing continuous shade and greenery. Finally, and not least important, this category is notable for its exotic nature. With their wide variety of vibrant colors, large sizes, and striking textures, tropical foliage trees are often used in landscaping to create stunning designs.
Resilient tropical foliage trees for stunning landscaping
But we need to be true to ourselves; not every tree works everywhere; there are certain trees that really go the extra mile. At TreeWorld we know it is not just about aesthetics—it’s also about resilience. While you may desire an alluring tropical foliage design, it must also be practical and thoughtfully planned. So today we are highlighting a tropical foliage tree we consider versatile and sturdy, falling certainly into the resilient tree category.
Pithecellobium Arboreum
Popularly known as the Cojoba tree or Lorito tree, this evergreen is native to the tropical regions of the Americas, commonly found in countries with warm climates and abundant rainfall. It has come to play a vital role in landscaping design due to its resilient nature.
Characterized by its vibrant green, feathery, compound pinnate leaves, it consists of small, oval-shaped leaflets, giving the tree a delicate fern-like foliage yet dense appearance. Typically reaching heights of 30 to 50 feet, it’s classified as a medium-sized tree, providing excellent shade for smaller outdoor spaces. Thanks to this fast-growing tree’s rounded crown and branching structure, it’s also ideal for parks, gardens, and streetscapes.
Even though the foliage display on its own creates a cooling and soothing effect in landscapes, the Lorito tree has other alluring characteristics, such as its small, cream-colored or pale yellow, mildly fragrant flowers that emerge in clusters, adding a subtle yet attractive touch during its blooming season (spring-summer). These flowers attract pollinators like bees and butterflies, contributing to the tree’s ecological role. The Pithecellobium arboreum also produces long, coiled pods containing seeds, a feature typical of many members of the Fabaceae family. These seed pods are quite striking and turn red, enhancing its tropical appeal.
Moreover, the Cojoba tree thrives in well-drained soils and tolerates a variety of soil types, from sandy to loamy. Loving full sun to partial shade, it is drought-tolerant once established and has medium to high salt tolerance, making it a perfect fit for Florida and Caribbean landscapes.
Why the Lorito tree is a resilient tree
Everything we just discussed is wonderful already on its own. But here is why the Pithecellobium arboreum is considered a tropical resilient tree:
It’s a flexible tree
The Cojoba tree is known for its pliable branches, which allow it to bend rather than break under strong winds. This makes it resilient in the face of Florida’s unpredictable weather, including hurricanes and tropical storms. And while the tree has a dense foliage structure, its canopy is not overly compact. This allows wind to pass through the tree rather than exerting excessive force, reducing the likelihood of uprooting or major damage.
Strong Root System
The Lorito tree develops a robust root system that anchors it firmly in the soil. This contributes to its stability during high winds and heavy rains, minimizing the risk of toppling. Plus, its roots also help prevent soil erosion, which is particularly valuable in areas prone to flooding or storm surges.
Tolerance in Harsh Conditions
As a tropical tree, it is well adapted to coastal conditions, including exposure to salt spray, making it ideal for hurricane-prone coastal regions. And, once established, it is drought-resistant, which is definitely an advantage.
Sustainable urban landscaping effect
We all know and value sustainable landscaping. The Cojoba tree contributes to these goals by cooling urban heat islands through its generous canopy, which reduces temperatures and creates cooler microclimates. Once established, it has a low water requirement, making it suitable for xeriscaping and water-wise gardens. Finally, as a fast-growing tropical foliage tree, the Cojoba tree captures carbon, contributing to climate resilience initiatives.
A Smart Landscaping Choice
Tropical foliage trees like Pithecellobium arboreum are excellent landscape performers, making them a great choice. Especially in areas prone to strong winds like Florida, they help reduce debris risks while thriving in salt-exposed environments, protecting landscapes, and withstanding storms. Whether it’s for a residential garden, park, urban plaza, or commercial property, the Lorito adds an inviting, lush tropical touch.
Find it at our nursery starting from 25 gallons. Check the tree specification chart or call us (305) 245 6886 for more information.
Read also our article about: Best low maintenance hedges.
