Snyder Preserve - Prosopis velutina
Family: Fabaceae
Compound: Pro vel
Synonyms: Neltuma velutina, Prosopis articulata, Prosopis chilensis var. velutina, Prosopis juliflora, Prosopis juliflora var. articulata, Prosopis juliflora var. velutina
Geographic Origin: southwestern US, northern MX
Characteristics: A single or multi-trunked tree or shrub with rough dark-colored bark. The branches of this plant grow horizontally or toward the ground. Typically between 3-9m (10-30ft) in height, but under ideal conditions it can grow up to 18m (60ft) and create an impressive canopy. The leaves are bipinnately compound, with 13-30 pairs of gray-green leaflets. A distinguishing feature of this species are the dense trichomes on the leaf and stem surfaces giving these structures a velvety texture. The species also has two pinnae (sets of leaflets). Many small flowers clustered together in dense yellow catkins. Each flower has 10 stamens. Pods of the velvet mesquite are slightly flattened, straw-colored, sometimes with red streaks, and 7.5-10cm (3-4in) long. Pairs of thorns emerge from nodes.
Natural History: A highly abundant, bee-pollinated legume tree that forms mutually beneficial associations with nitrogen-fixing bacteria in the soil. As a result, they can produce protein-rich seeds that were originally scarified and dispersed by megafauna, and now by riparian weathering and cattle. Although generally grown in “bosques,” (dense mesquite stands), they are increasingly facing habitat destruction leading to disturbed patterns of growth – sometimes creating more dispersed groups or solitary specimens. The dry fruit pods are enjoyed by livestock who then spread the seeds. Cattle dispersal and the suppression of fire have encouraged the mesquite to invade into grasslands transforming them into woodlands.
Cultivation Notes: The velvet mesquite is propagated by seed and grows best well draining soils. This plant does not require additional watering, once established, though periodic (once every month/two months) root zone soaking during the dry summers will improve appearance. Roots of this species are invasive and are known to cause damage to nearby structures such as sidewalks and roads. In addition, this species drips dark sap from its wounds, which stains masonry as well as metals.
For general plant propagation information, click here
Ethnobotany: The beans known as “Pechitas” are edible and have served as important starch in the diets of indigenous peoples. Tohono O’ohdam make mesquite flour, and today this practice is becoming commercially viable. Piñon nuts and acorns were traded between indigenous peoples in exchange for mesquite. The flowers are also sweet and edible and the tree sap can be made into a cold and flu remedy or candy. Locals of the southwest also revere the charcoal made from mesquite wood for the delicious flavor it gives food on the grill. The roots, bark, and leaves also have medicinal properties and have been used for treatment of conjunctivitis, intestinal parasites, acne, and dandruff. The inner bark is also used in basketry and fabrics. The wood is valued for building, basketry, and as a fabric, and the gum for making candy, pottery glue, and black dye.
Citations:
Walters, James E, and Balbir Backhaus. Shade and Color with Water-Conserving Plants. Timber Press, 1992.
Warren, Jones and Sacamano, Charles. Landscape Plants for Dry Regions. Cambridge, MA. Fisher Books, 2000. Print.
Phillips, Steven J. and Comus, Patricia Wentworth. A Natural History of the Sonoran Desert.
Tucson: Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum Press, 2000. Print.
Hodgson, Wendy C. Food Plants of the Sonoran Desert. Tucson: University of Arizona Press, 2001. Print.
SEINet Arizona – New Mexico Chapter. Retrieved June 28, 2024.
