Chorisia insignis

A small-medium semi-deciduous tree that originates from South America. The tree trunk is sculptural and impressive even at times when the tree is bare of leaves: the trunk is shaped like a bottle: wide at the base and narrowing as it ascends. Its trunk and branches are covered with thumbtack-like thorns that create a unique appearance. Its leaves are compound and have 7 elongated, oval leaflets that are slightly serrated at the end. The tree bears impressive white flowers in summer. Due to its propagation by seeds, the tree may flower at the beginning of summer, resulting in the flowers’ combining with the leaves, or the tree may flower in autumn after its leaves have fallen. The flowering varies from tree to tree and ranges from completely white flowers to white flowers with a yellow center to yellow flowers. The flowers are shaped like small lilies. The tree’s fruit is a capsule that resembles an avocado or pear. When the fruit opens along its 5 valves, it reveals a sort of ball of cotton that cradles the seeds. The tree’s growth rate is fast, and good watering (while keeping the soil appropriately drained) will lead to especially rapid growth of 5 meters per year in optimal conditions. Once established, the tree requires minimal watering, but it still benefits from watering in summer. The tree is well-suited for all soil types in Israel, including chalky and saline.

Chorisia insignis has a taproot system, and with proper preparation of the planting hole, it can be planted on paved streets without fear of damage to the pavement. The tree’s sculptural appearance, thorn-covered trunk and impressive flowering make it an especially attractive ornamental tree.

In the same family: Chorisia speciosa »