Carob tree

Profile

Family

Fabaceae

Habit

Tree

Height

11 m

Spread

8 m

Growth

fast

Lifespan

500 years

First yield

after 7 years

Hardiness

zone 9–11

Shade tolerance

light shade

Soil

Sand, Silt, Loam

Soil moisture

very dry – very moist

pH

6 – 8

Synonyms

Carob, Johannisbrot,

Uses

Edible: Seeds are high in protein and can be processed into a flour containing 60% protein, free of sugar and starch. This flour is suitable for baking and can be used as a chocolate substitute. The seed pods can be eaten raw or ground into powder, filled with a sweet pulp that can be consumed green or dried. The pulp, very sweet yet fibrous, can be used as a chocolate alternative in various recipes. The pods contain about 55% sugar, 10% protein, and 6% fat. An edible gum can be extracted from the seeds, serving as a substitute for gum tragacanth. This gum is used as a stabilizer, thickener, and even as an egg replacement. Roasted seeds can serve as a coffee substitute.

Medicinal: Seeds (soothing, healing for diarrhea); seed pods and bark (astringent, laxative) used as a decoction (for diarrhea).

Origin & habitat

Southern Europe includes countries such as Spain, Italy, Greece, and Portugal. This region is renowned for its Mediterranean climate, rich history, and diverse cuisine. Tourists from around the world visit Southern Europe to explore its beautiful beaches, ancient ruins, and picturesque villages.

Hedges, slopes, and sandy locations.

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