Sortable, filterable reference for comparing carrotwood tree (Cupaniopsis anacardioides) against 15+ comparable shade and street trees on size, growth rate, pet toxicity, and invasiveness.
| Common Name | Scientific Name | Height (ft) | Growth Rate | Pet Safety | Human Edibility | Invasiveness | Primary Use |
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Carrotwood ranks among the moderately-toxic options in this table — its seed/fruit toxicity is comparable to chinaberry and oleander-adjacent risk, but lower-severity than truly high-risk species. Non-toxic alternatives (live oak, crepe myrtle, Chinese elm) are listed above for pet-owning households.
Live oak, Chinese elm, and Southern magnolia offer comparable canopy width and shade density without the invasiveness flags carrotwood carries in warm coastal climates. Filter the table by "Not considered invasive" and sort by Height to compare.
Status reflects regional classification (e.g., state invasive species lists) rather than a universal rating — a species can be invasive in one climate and neutral in another. Always check local extension office or agriculture department guidance before planting.
Generally yes — faster growers need more frequent pruning to manage form and clearance, while slow-to-moderate growers like carrotwood need less structural maintenance once established but may take longer to deliver full shade coverage.