Ironwood

Olneya tesota

Upright, thorny and briefly deciduous native tree with pea shaped flowers, makes a stunning appearance in late spring.

Resilient desert tree native to the southwestern United States and Mexico. Renowned for its dense, durable wood, it thrives in arid environments. With small, dark green leaves and fragrant purple flowers, it offers vital habitat and food for desert wildlife. This slow-growing, long-lived tree is a cornerstone species in desert ecosystems.

Flowers: J F M A M J J A S O N D
Status: Native
Origin: Lower Sonoran Desert (Southeast CA and Southwest AZ)
Family: Pea Family
Size: Up to 30′
Sun: Full
Watering: Low, no supplemental water during cooler weather
Growth Rate: Slow
Soil: Tolerant
Temperature:
Pruning: Minimal to raise canopy base
Disease and Pests:
Uses: Nectar Plant (Native bees are the primary pollinator), provides nesting habitat for birds, Host for Rawson’s Metalmark
Notes: Benefits from occasional deep watering in summer

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