Mesquite (Prosopis juliflora)

Mesquite
Scientific Name: Prosopis juliflora (Sw.) DC.
Family: Fabaceae

Show Larger Picture Recommended Temperature Zone:
sunset:
USDA: 7-11

Frost Tolerance: Hardy to 0°F (-18°C)
Sun Exposure: Full sun
Origin: Coastal, from Mexico south to Columbia and Venezuela, and islands of the Caribbean.
Growth Habits: Deciduous tree, up to 30 feet tall (9 m), 20 feet spread (6 m)
Watering Needs: Regular to little water
Propagation: Seeds, root suckers, hardwood cuttings

The Mesquite has been introduced in Asia and Africa and is now wide spread in the semi-arid areas of the world. In many areas, it is considered a weed. Here in Arizona, it is a drought resistant small tree, very useful in gardens for the light shade it provides.

Fruiting Habits:
The Mesquite pods have been used since prehistory as food by the men of the Americas. The pod can be ground to make a flour that can be mixed with wheat flour for cooking.

Gardening in Arizona Home Page | List of All the Plants | More in the Fabaceae family