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Palo Verde Flower Wikimedia Commons
Fabaceae

Palo Verde Flower

Parkinsonia florida

Perseverance in harsh conditions.

Family
Fabaceae
Genus
Parkinsonia
Native to
Southwestern United States, Mexico
Bloom season
Spring
Type
Deciduous Tree
Height
15-30 feet
Sunlight
Full Sun
Soil
Well-drained, Sandy
Water
Very Low
Hardiness
8-11
Lifespan
Perennial

Did you know

  • Palo verde means 'green stick' in Spanish, referring to the photosynthetic green bark.
  • The green bark can photosynthesize even after the tree drops its tiny leaves during drought.
  • It is the official state tree of Arizona, perfectly adapted to the Sonoran Desert.
  • In spring, palo verde trees burst into such brilliant yellow bloom that they appear to glow.
  • The seeds were an important food source for the Tohono O'odham and other desert peoples.

Color meanings

0

Endurance

1

Adaptability

2

Radiance

Uses

  • Desert landscaping
  • Shade tree
  • Wildlife habitat
  • Erosion control