The Carob Trees of Outpost Estates: A Neighborhood Legacy at a Crossroads
Picture of a crew removing a fallen branch of a Carob tree on Outpost Drive.
One of the defining features of Outpost Estates is its lush tree canopy. Among the oldest and most recognizable trees in our neighborhood are the Carob trees. Planted when Outpost Estates was first established nearly a century ago, these trees have shaped the look and feel of our streets for generations.
A picture of wild deer in Outpost Estates eating the Carob tree pods that fall to the ground.
What Are Carob Trees?
Carob (Ceratonia siliqua) is native to the Mediterranean region, where it thrives in climates with wet winters and dry summers—conditions very similar to Los Angeles. Known for their glossy green leaves and long brown pods, Carob trees are not only visually distinctive but also deeply tied to our local ecosystem.
Fun fact: the deer in the Hollywood Hills love to eat the Carob pods, often gathering under the trees during pod season.
The Aging Carob Population in Outpost
While beautiful, our Carob trees are reaching the end of their natural life span. Many of the original plantings are now failing.
As noted by the City’s Street Tree Department years ago, these aging trees are susceptible to a fungus called Armillaria (commonly known as oak root fungus). This fungus causes interior decay, leaving the trees hollow and structurally unstable. Because there is no cure, fallen branches or even entire trees toppling—sometimes on calm days—are becoming more common.
In the early 2000s, neighbors reported the sudden fall of a Carob tree on Outpost Drive near Hillside/Outpost Circle, which raised awareness about this issue. Arborists explained that overwatering during the summer can worsen the fungus, so residents are advised to avoid excessive irrigation around Carobs in the dry months.
Picture of a fallen Carob tree branch on Outpost Drive.
What to Do if a Carob Falls
If a Carob tree or large branch falls, the responsibility depends on where the tree is located:
Private Property: If the tree is clearly within a homeowner’s property line, the property owner is responsible for removal and maintenance.
Public Right-of-Way (between curb and sidewalk): If the Carob is in the public planting strip (the space between the curb and property line, usually a few feet in), it is generally considered City property. In this case, residents should:
Call 311 or use the MyLA311 app or website to report the fallen tree.
LAPD or LAFD should be called if the fallen tree is causing an immediate hazard.
Caring for Remaining Carobs
For those with Carob trees still standing:
Trim long branches carefully, but avoid severe pruning—Carobs need foliage to stay healthy.
Do not overwater in summer.
Report dangerous limbs to the City if they hang over streets or sidewalks.
Picture of a fallen Carob tree branch from upper Outpost Drive.
Picture of fallen Carob tree from upper Outpost Drive.
Looking Ahead: A Neighborhood Opportunity
The decline of our Carobs presents an opportunity to rethink our future canopy. Outpost Estates could come together as a community to consider:
Replacement Plantings: Choosing new trees that are low-water, fire-resistant, and climate-adapted for Los Angeles.
Partnership with Homeowners: Since the public space between the curb and sidewalk is City land, planting requires homeowner agreement to irrigate and help care for new trees.
Community Initiative: A coordinated neighborhood tree-planting project would both honor the legacy of the Carobs and ensure our streets remain shaded, green, and beautiful for generations to come.
Recommended Tree Species: These species are relatively drought tolerant, more fire resistant than many others, and are on LA’s approved street‐tree lists or similar regional resources:
| Common Name | Scientific Name | Key Benefits / Notes | Mature Size |
|---|---|---|---|
| Coast Live Oak | Quercus agrifolia | Native to Southern California; fire resistant; great wildlife habitat; low water needs once established. | 40–60 ft tall, wide canopy |
| Chinese Pistache | Pistacia chinensis | Heat tolerant; good fall color; handles poor soils; on LA’s approved street tree list. | 30–35 ft tall/spread |
| Western Redbud | Cercis occidentalis | Smaller tree; spring flowers; fire resistant; low water needs. | 15–25 ft tall/spread |
| Marina Strawberry Tree | Arbutus × ‘Marina’ | Evergreen; striking red bark; drought tolerant; approved as LA street tree. | 25–40 ft tall |
| Italian Stone Pine | Pinus pinea | Umbrella-shaped canopy; drought tolerant; provides shade; needs space. | 35–40 ft tall/spread |
| Palo Verde | Parkinsonia / Cercidium | Very drought adapted; delicate foliage reduces fuel load; lighter shade canopy. | 20–30 ft tall/spread |
| Olive (non-invasive cultivars) | Olea europaea | Drought tolerant; graceful evergreen; Mediterranean character; choose non-messy variety. | ~25 ft tall/spread (varies) |
