SafePlants

Cupaniopsis anacardioides: The Carrotwood Tree

Cupaniopsis anacardioides, commonly known as tuckeroo, carrotwood, beach tamarind, or green-leaved tamarind, is a flowering tree species that has garnered both admiration and concern.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Cupaniopsis anacardioides (A. Rich.) Radlk.
• Common Names: Tuckeroo, Carrotwood, Beach Tamarind, Green-leaved Tamarind, Carrot Weed
• Family: Sapindaceae (Soapberry Family)

Distribution and Habitat

• Native Range: Australia, Irian Jaya (Indonesia), and Papua New Guinea.
• Adaptable to clay-type soils and high-moisture environments like Houston.
• Has been deliberately introduced into Florida.

Ecological Role

• Cupaniopsis anacardioides is considered an invasive plant species, particularly in Florida, where it poses a threat to natural areas and native species, including potential confusion with the endangered American toadwood (Cupania glabra).

Morphological Characteristics

• Evergreen tree that can grow up to 35 ft (10.7 m) tall.
• Fast-growing when young, with growth slowing as it matures.
• Leaves are alternate and variable, even- (occasionally odd-) pinnately compound.
• The inner bark and young taproot often appear orange, giving rise to the common name "carrotwood."
• Produces copious amounts of orange-red fruits and seedlings.
• Produces small seeds

Interactions with Other Organisms

• Its fruits and seeds attract birds.

Additional Information

• First identified as a potentially invasive tree in 1989, approximately ten years after it became popular as an ornamental tree.
• Has a predictable growth habit into an upright, formal-looking shade tree.
• Easy to prune to shape with a dense canopy of leaves.

Resources

• UF/IFAS Center for Aquatic and Invasive Plants
• Natural Area Weeds: Carrotwood (Cupaniopsis anacardioides). Publication SS AGR 165. University of Florida, Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences