Olneya tesota
Desert Ironwood
Description
Evergreen tree grows slowly to 25' x 25'. It has attractive gray bark and the stems are armed with thorns. In late spring there are masses of dusty lavender pea-like flowers. This handsome tree lends character to the landscape. Native to the Sonoran Desert.
Plant Type
Tree
Height Range
12-25'
Flower Color
Lavender
Flower Season
Spring
Leaf Color
Grey Green
Bark Color
Grey
Fruit Color
n/a
Fruit Season
n/a
Sun
Full
Water
Low
Growth Rate
Slow
Soil Type
Clay, Rocky
Soil Condition
Average, Poor, Well-drained
Soil pH
Basic
Adverse Factors
Thorns/Spines
Design Styles
Ranch, Spanish, Wild Garden
Accenting Features
Multi-trunk Tree, Showy Flowers, Specimen
Seasonal Interest
Spring
Location Uses
Background, Foundation, Patio, With Rocks
Special Uses
Screen, Shade Tree, Naturalizing
Attracts Wildlife
Birds, Wildlife
Water Saving Tip:
Use multiple cycles of irrigation on watering days. Most sprinklers deliver water faster than soils can absorb it.
By breaking up the watering time into smaller segments, runoff can be greatly reduced.