Desert
Sweet AcaciaDesert
Sweet AcaciaThis small, multi-trunked, low-branching tree is a moderate grower. Mostly evergreen, it will lose leaves in extreme cold. Lives about 30 years, less with lots of irrigation.
Hardy to 15F or below.
Highly drought resistant, but ample moisture will stimulate growth until desired size is achieved. Then irrigate occasionally to maintain satisfactory landscape appearance.
Full sun. Tolerates reflected sun and heat.
Most soils, but provide good drainage.
Little maintenance required if you use it appropriately and give it space to grow. Lots of sucker growth; prune in April.
Some litter from leaves and seeds. Caterpillars may defoliate in spring, but leaves quickly come out again. Occasion al infestations of desert mistletoe. Thorns can be a nuisance if planted near walkways. Pollen can be allergenic.
BloomFragrant yellow puff blooms appear in early spring or as early as November or December.
Seed pods are brown, flat and straight. Lac from the pods is used as glue in mending pottery.
Can be used as a patio or street tree in desert, natural or transitional gardens and groups for a grove or barrier. Provides light shade.
Chihuahuan Desert; once thought to be a separate species and now considered to be a regional variation of A. farnesiana to which it is similar with two distinctions: hardier to cold and earlier blooms. Member of the Fabaceae (Leguminoceae) or pea family.
Native, Desert Grassland, Desert, Desert Transitional, Informal, Subtropical, Bird, Butterfly, Fragrant