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What Makes Monkey Pod Trees Unique
By ROBYN HUNT
The monkey pod tree has a lifespan of 80 to 100 years, grows up to five feet per year, and is considered semi-deciduous. It has many traits that set it apart from other trees.
Supports Environment
The monkey pod tree offers environmental benefits such as nitrogen fixing, meaning it can convert atmospheric nitrogen into usable forms for other organisms.
The monkey pod tree has a robust root system that also helps protect against soil erosion and a gigantic canopy that reduces the impact of water droplets on the soil's surface.
Home To Creatures
The monkey pod tree serves as a hub of wildlife activity, attracting nectivorous birds, butterflies, bees, and squirrels, in addition to epiphytes and vines.
Its branches, leaves, and bark act as microhabitats and provide niches for a variety of creepy crawlies, including insects, spiders, and microorganisms like beneficial bacteria.
Woodworking
The monkey pod tree provides a lightweight wood that's highly resistant to decay, so using it for woodcarving is an eco-friendly and sustainable option for artisans.
Highly Usable
The monkey pod tree’s pulpy pods yield a flavorful fruit, and its bark, leaves, roots, seeds, and flowers have been used in different folk remedies around the world.
Downsides
In certain areas, like Hawaii, the tree is an invasive species, and it can overcrowd small spaces. Plus, its branches can be vulnerable to breakage, posing a safety risk.
The tree's root system can also pose challenges for building projects and existing structures and can cause foundational cracking or damage underground piping and infrastructure.