Mesquite

Frost Tolerance: Hardy to 0°F (-18°C)

Sun Exposure: Full sun

Origin: Coastal, from Mexico south to Columbia and Venezuela, and islands of the Caribbean.

Growth Habits: Deciduous tree, up to 30 feet tall (9 m), 20 feet spread (6 m)

Watering Needs: Regular to little water

Propagation: Seeds, root suckers, hardwood cuttings

"Prosopis juliflora", 19727 U.S.D.A. Forest Service. Courtesy of the Hunt Institute

The Mesquite has been introduced in Asia and Africa and is now wide spread in the semi-arid areas of the world. In many areas, it is considered a weed. Here in Arizona, it is a drought resistant small tree, very useful in gardens for the light shade it provides.

Fruiting Habits:
The Mesquite pods have been used since prehistory as food by the men of the Americas. The pod can be ground to make a flour that can be mixed with wheat flour for cooking.