Family: Fabaceae

Native to the dry forests of Central America, ear tree thrives in the same type of habitat. It was first imported to Hawaiʻi by the famed botanist Dr. Hillebrand. His original planting still stands at Foster’s botanical garden in Honolulu, where it is designated as an exceptional tree.

The large hemispherical shaped crown gives this tree a distinctive shape. Its common name describes the seed pod shape. It yields a plethora of uses, including nitrogen fixation, bee fodder, timber, tannin, soap, gum, jewelry, and food. In some cases, like the leeward sides, shade is its most valued output. The ear tree is an excellent specimen for parks, roadsides, and large estates.

 

Plant Uses:

• Edible
• Nitrogen fixer
• Ornamental
• Shade
• Specimen
• Woodworking

Plant Dangers:

• Toxic to animals

High Risk Traits:

• Large surface roots crack sidewalks and foundations.
  
• Limbs break easily in wind, posing a hazard to people and property.
  
• Sawdust inhalation causes respiratory allergies.
  
• Seeds contain saponins; toxic to mammals if prepared improperly.
  
• Resprouts vigorously after cutting; difficult to kill.
  
• Forms a persistent seed bank in the soil.

Low Risk Traits:

• Not documented as an agricultural or environmental weed.
  
• Does not form dense thickets or displace native vegetation.
  
• Shade-intolerant; cannot invade established forests.
  
• Natural regeneration is rare due to high seedling mortality.
  
• Seeds require large animals for dispersal; not spread by wind or birds.