Carrot Tree
Monizia edulis
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Pl. 228B — Monizia edulis
Monizia edulisMonizia edulisMonizia edulisMonizia edulisMonizia edulisMonizia edulisMonizia edulisMonizia edulisMonizia edulisMonizia edulisMonizia edulisMonizia edulisMonizia edulisMonizia edulis
IOverview
Overview
The Carrot Tree (Monizia edulis) is a unique perennial native to the subtropical islands of Madeira and Selvagens in Portugal. This small tree thrives in full sun and moist conditions, adapting well to light sandy, medium, and heavy clay soils. Known for its edible roots, which can be harvested for culinary use, this plant also serves as an ornamental addition to gardens due to its distinctive appearance. One of the Carrot Tree's most notable features is its ability to grow up to 1.2 meters in height, making it a recognizable presence in its native habitat and cultivated settings alike.
Quick answers
What is Carrot Tree?
The Carrot Tree (Monizia edulis) is a unique perennial native to the subtropical islands of Madeira and Selvagens in Portugal. This small tree thrives in full sun and moist conditions, adapting well to light sandy, medium, and heavy clay soils.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
The Carrot Tree (Monizia edulis) thrives in full sun and prefers moist soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is hardy in temperate regions with a range of 8-11 on the USDA Hardiness Zone scale. This perennial grows to about 1.2 meters tall and produces edible roots. For optimal growth, ensure consistent moisture and well-drained soil rich in organic matter. Propagation can be done through root division or seed sowing.
Light
Full sun
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
8-11
Life cycle
Perennial
Mature size
1.2 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Carrot Tree for the first time
7steps
Start with a simple and forgiving approach to growing Carrot Tree, focusing on basic care.
- 1
What you'll need
A small pot or garden bed, seeds or young plants, good quality soil.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring when the weather starts warming up.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use a well-draining mix with some sand for lightness. Ensure containers have drainage holes.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds 1 cm deep in moist soil, or plant young seedlings at the same depth.
- 5
First two weeks
Keep the soil consistently moist and provide partial shade to help establish roots.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water regularly but avoid overwatering. Place in a sunny spot, ideally with some afternoon shade.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune any dead leaves to maintain plant health and appearance.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Root
Edible uses: The Carrot Tree's root is edible and can be eaten raw or cooked. Typically, the roots are prepared in similar ways to carrots, either boiled or roasted. Skip the detailed recipe; focus on these basic preparation methods.
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
2 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
2 native · 0 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 2 native
Europe1 region
native (1)Portugal
Broader regions
native:Selvagens
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
Explore further
Companion planting
Growing zone
XII
About this entry
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- Citation
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · 228b86dd-9b5a-4c6c-972a-1c0aad2b4c53
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