Hybrid
Mesquite (Chilean Mesquite)Hybrid
Mesquite (Chilean Mesquite)The hybrid version of this genus is thornless and is a fast grower. It will lose its leaves in extreme cold. It is often sold as Chilean Mesquite at nurseries. It spreads wider than it grows tall.
May be sensitive to cold at 10F or below. In mild winter areas, it keeps its leaves all winter but will lose them with sharp cold.
Widely tolerant once established but best with infrequent, deep irrigation to promote good root system. It can be dangerous to grow the plant too quickly; the root system will not develop properly and the tree could blow over in a strong wind. Irrigate until tree reaches desired height and then reduce to maintain good foliage. Requires very little supplemental water.
Full to reflected sun.
Widely tolerant. Best in deep soil with a high water table. For best results, make sure planting holes in caliche or clay soils have drainage.
Periodic to none depending on location. Prune to train only.
Invasive roots, litter of catkins in spring, seedpods in summer and leaflets in fall. Pollen can be allergenic. Occasional infestations of scale and mistletoe.
Yellow catkins in spring.
Velvet seedpods in summer; can be cleaned and ground into flour. The pods are flatter than the native species.
One of the most effective plants for summer shade. Effective in controlling glare, cooling ground surfaces and filtering dust and breezes. Lawn, patio or street tree; parks or roadside. Can be used in difficult soil areas. Not for narrow areas or closer to structures than 8 or 10 feet. Beautiful wood for furniture or floors. Good firewood.
The hybrid species is probably a form of P. alba from the west side of the Andes. It is a member of the Fabaceae (Leguminosae) family.
Native, Desert Grassland, Desert, Desert Transitional, Informal