Prosopis velutina

Sunset

Zones 10-13, 18-24

Full

Moderate, Minimal

Arizona Mesquite
Fabaceae (Leguminosae)
Deciduous, Shrubs, Trees

PROSOPIS

Native to deserts in the Southwest, Mexico, and South America. Though hardy in other environments, Mesquites are most commonly grown in deserts, where they are among the toughest and most useful of trees. Much of their success in these harsh conditions is due to their roots, which will travel great distances to find water (a trait that will cause problems if plants tap into drainage or sewer lines). Once established, these plants are highly drought tolerant, but quickly adapt to regular lawn watering. In poor, rocky soil and without additional water, mesquites are shrubby; in deep soil where roots can reach ground water, or where irrigation is generous, they grow rapidly to about 30 ft. tall, with a picturesque, spreading canopy approximately as wide as high.

Prosopis velutina

Native from southeastern Arizona into Mexico and West Texas. Resembles Prosopis glandulosa, which reaches 30 ft. high and wide, but Prosopis velutina may be smaller and shrubbier when grown in poor, dry conditions. Common in Arizona.