Mesquite, Velvet Mesquite
Prosopis velutina
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Details & Attributes
| Plant Type(s) | Tree, perennial |
| Native to Arizona | Yes! |
| Water Needs | Low |
| Sun | Full sun |
| Pollinators | Bees |
| Has Spines | Yes |
| Size In relative feet, width by height |
30-50 × 30-50 |
| Flowering Season | April-July |
| Flower Color | Creamy white |
| Minimum Temperature Range | 10 °F |
| Leaf Description | Bipinnate (having leaflets that are further subdivided), dark green, deciduous (drops leaves in winter) |
| Fruit | Legume (bean) |
| View on SEINet | View SEINet Entry |
| Range Map | View SEINet Range Map |
| Description | The essential and indispensible tree for residents of southern and central Arizona. Mesquites can anchor a landscape by providing shade, blooms, edible pods, and nutrient rich mulch for nearby plants. Like many members of the Bean family, mesquites have a relationship with a bacteria which captures nitrogen from the air and converts it into forms that plants can use. The upshot is that the foliage, flowers, and pods that Mesquites shed are rich in nitrogen and can be left where they fall or moved to parts of the yard where they can contribute to a more fertile soil for other species to thrive in. These deciduous trees are great for cooling down a space in the summer and allowing sunlight in during the winter months. Many plants will do well planted near the edge of a mesquite canopy where the harsh sun will be diffused through dense foliage. Be aware when purchasing mesquites that many nurseries sell hybridized cultivars which can be more prone to limb drop, or blowing over in storms. Check with your local nursery and ask about the sources and characteristics of their mesquites before buying. |
