Enterolobium contortisiliquum MONKEYPOD (4 seeds)

Samanea saman, monkeypod also known as Rain Tree, Timbo, or guanacaste, is a tree in the Fabaceae family.
It is a very large, fast-growing exotic tree that can reach 20 meters in height. It is native to the tropical and subtropical regions of South America.

Its leaves are composed of 10 to 20 oval and lanceolate leaflets, featuring a bright green color and a lustrous texture. They are arranged alternately on the stem. The tree's unique name, "Rain Tree," comes from its behavior: when clouds approach, the leaves fold inward, allowing rainwater to reach the ground to irrigate the roots. Once fair weather returns, the leaves unfold again to soak up the light.

The flowers are small, grouped in clusters, and cream-colored with finely hairy petals. They have a globular appearance and appear before or at the same time as the leaves. The unusual pods of this tree are long and coiled, with a characteristic spiral shape resembling a squirrel's tail. They can reach several centimeters in length and contain several seeds.

Rain tree seeds (from the Enterolobium genus) are medium-sized, averaging 1 cm in length, and are relatively thin with various shades of brown.

- Uses:

The Giant That Whispers at Nightfall

Samanea saman hides a fascinating, poetic secret: at nightfall or as soon as clouds become threatening, its delicate compound leaves wisely fold in on themselves.
This biological phenomenon, called nyctinasty, earns it its name of Rain Tree.
Sowing its seeds means treating yourself to the living spectacle of a plant endowed with a true plant clock.

A Green Parasol Crowned with Pink Plumes

Did you know that in addition to its mobile foliage, this majestic tree adorns itself with a spectacular flowering that resembles silk cushions? Its flowers, composed of dozens of long, soft pink stamens with white tips, form true small suspended luminous plumes.
It is the ideal subject for rare plant enthusiasts wishing to cultivate a unique graphic silhouette in large containers, a warm greenhouse, or a bright veranda.

The Icon of Shade and Tropical Landscapes

In parks and large estates worldwide, Samanea saman is the absolute reference for creating areas of coolness thanks to its immense, spreading crown in the shape of a perfect dome.
While it requires warmth and protection from frost under our climates, its initial growth is an ultra-rewarding cultivation project.
It structures space with an incomparable natural elegance and brings an immediate touch of exotic serenity.

Its Ethnobotanical Use

The seeds are mainly used for making ethnic jewelry.
The fruit and bark are rich in saponins, which is how the Pilagá aborigines used them as a plant-based soap.

- Germination and Sowing:

• The best time to sow Samanea saman begins in June, when nighttime temperatures are sufficiently warm.
• Gently scarify the seeds with sandpaper.
• Soak them for 24 hours in lukewarm water to accelerate germination.
• Sow them separately in peat pots at a depth of only 2 cm.
• Cover them with one centimeter of substrate.
• Tamp down lightly.
• Gently water the planting with a sprayer.
• Finally, place the pots in a warm, humid greenhouse at a temperature of at least 25°C to 30°C. Germination will begin within 3 to 6 weeks after sowing.

- Soil Type / Substrate:

It prefers well-drained, fertile soil rich in organic matter for proper development. It tolerates various soil types, including clay, sandy, and limestone soils, but it is important that the soil does not retain too much water. For pot cultivation, ensure the bottom is well-drained.

- Exposure / Light:

This tree requires full sun exposure to grow correctly. Partial exposure to bright light may also be suitable, but deep shade can hinder its growth.

- Temperature / Hardiness:

The squirrel tree enjoys warm temperatures ranging from 25 to 35°C. It can suffer when temperatures drop below 10°C. It is a non-hardy, frost-sensitive plant that will not survive freezing temperatures. Its USDA hardiness zone is 10.

- Irrigation / Watering:

The rain tree requires regular watering, especially during its first years of growth, to establish a strong root system. Once established, it is relatively drought-resistant.

- Diseases / Pests:

It can be affected by various diseases such as rust, caused by fungi, which leads to leaf dieback. Pest infestations like bark beetles are rare but can damage the tree's wood.

This article was written by Julien on 07/09/2026.