Caesalpinia ferrea
 
Common Names: Leopard Tree, Brazilian Ironwood, Pau-ferro, Juca
 
Zones: 10B–11
 
A semi-deciduous tree native to Brazil, Caesalpinia ferrea is admired for its mottled, peeling bark and airy canopy of fine-textured foliage. Found in tropical dry forests and urban landscapes, it combines ornamental appeal with resilience to heat and drought. This species is increasingly used in streetscapes, parks, and xeric designs across warm coastal regions.
 
Key Features
Growth Habit: Upright; rounded to spreading canopy; moderate growth rate
Height: Typically 30–40 ft (9–12 m); can reach 50 ft (15 m) in ideal conditions
Trunk: Smooth bark with striking patches of gray, cream, and brown; exfoliates in sheets
Leaves: Bipinnately compound; small leaflets; fine texture; semi-deciduous in dry seasons
Inflorescence: Loose clusters of yellow flowers with reddish markings; bloom spring to summer
Fruit: Flat, woody pods; brown; persistent; seed-bearing
Ecology: Native to tropical dry forests; supports pollinators; tolerates urban stress
 
Growing Conditions
Light: Full sun
Watering: Low to moderate; drought-tolerant once established
Soil: Sandy to loamy; well-drained; tolerates poor soils
Temperature: Tolerates 30–100°F (–1 to 38°C); thrives in 70–90°F (21–32°C)
Humidity: Moderate to low; adapted to tropical and subtropical zones
Propagation: By seed; scarification improves germination
Tolerance: Heat, drought, and urban pollution tolerant; deer-resistant; suitable for streetscapes
 
Landscape Use
Best suited for urban plantings, xeric landscapes, and tropical dry gardens. Its striking bark and fine foliage offer year-round interest and architectural appeal. Pairs well with Tabebuia impetiginosa, Bauhinia variegata, and Cordia sebestena in warm-climate, low-maintenance designs.