I have owned a Cara Cara tree for two years It does not have thorns. Is it possible that the tree when purchased already had the rootstock take over? It is known to happen. From whom did you purchase the tree?

This is definitely not root stock, I have removed root stock shoots off of this tree which have clear trifoliate leaf shape, the rest of the leaves on this tree appear to be approximately correct shape for Cara Cara.

The thing I find most strange about this is that I did not notice the thorns the first year I had it in the ground even though I used christmas lights and covered it for multiple freezes, shortly after planting, and the following winter (2016 & 2017) it seems like I would have been stuck by thorns if they were there. Then when I went to cover it for a freeze in January 2018, I saw it had large thorns growing over the entire tree.

The tree was grown by Paul Becnel citrus Nursery, which I assume is some relation to Saxon Becnel, as their published address is about 1/2 mile apart on the same highway in Belle Chasse, Louisiana.

Interesting. My tree was purchased at Lowes and it's by the same nursery grower you mentioned. Is there a chance that the tree was mislabled? I am really surprised that the tree is 7' tall while mine is not even half that size, but then mine is in a pot. Considering it being 4 years old, it should have bloomed already and borne at least 1 piece of fruit. I would call the nursery grower or the garden center where it was purchased and discuss your concerns with them because something is not right.

My Cara Cara has had a couple branches with large thorns. They usually fall off on their own over time, or I cut the thorns. It’s a way young citrus trees protect themselves by producing thorns on young vigorous branches. I get them on my Meyer lemon tree as well. If they’re bothersome just trim them off, it shouldn’t hurt your tree.

I have an in ground large Cara Cara . The tree is probably 20 years old. It does not have thorns . Looking at it today, I could not find a single thorn any where in the tree..