Olneya tesota

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Desert Ironwood

 
Plant photo of: Olneya tesota
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Information by: Kathleen Moore        Photographer: Mountain States Nursery

 

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. It is native to the Sonoran Desert.

 

  • Anatomy

  • Sun/Water

  • Design

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

Very 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:

Apply a layer of mulch around plants to reduce moisture loss.

Choose organic mulches, such as shredded bark, compost or aged sawdust.