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Olneya tesota

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. Native to the Sonoran Desert.

 

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

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:

The best time of day to water is in the early morning when there is no wind or hot drying sun.