Tipuana tipu; Fabaceae-Faboideae

This semi-evergreen tree is native to the tropical forest of South America. Grown primarily for it's panicles of pea-like spring flowers, the foliage is not bad either: bright green leaves that are oblong with notched tips and downy undersides. Grow where soil is moist but well-drained and soil is fertile.

Galahs love to come and eat the seed which sits in winged pods.

For a while we are privileged to walk on petals;

The roots of certain trees can be very aggressive in their search for moisture. Paved areas that have been lifted by the force of roots are a good example.

A cool environment in the soil underneath pavers, with the addition of moisture seeping through the cracks of bricks creates a perfect growing environment for the roots of these types of trees.

Service pipes, particularly concrete or terracotta ones, have a history of damage and disturbance from tree roots. Tree roots are persistent and surprisingly strong, and will take advantage of any opportunity to get inside sewer pipes. This will happen through a small crack or fracture, or through ill-fitting pipe joints. Whether living in a home with an established garden or whether moving into a new house with a new garden, it is wise to check where the service pipes are located.

Believe it or not:

Weeds know, they just know where to grow, how to dupe you, and how to camouflage themselves among the perfectly respectable plants, they just know, and therefore, I've concluded weeds must have brains. ~Dianne Benson, Dirt, 1994

Photos Garden TS