If you find yourself near Herring Hall in April, you might notice a tree that appears to be covered in popcorn. This is the Guajillo, and those small white puff balls are its flowers. After blossoming, those flowers will recede and the fertilized ovaries will grow into large bean pods. Native to northeastern Mexico, this airy, delicate looking tree is commonly used as an ornamental because of its fernlike quality. Despite this friendly appearance, it naturally produces many different alkaloids, which makes it toxic to domesticated animals. It is ecologically important for honey bees, however, and honey made from its pollen is clear. It requires almost no supplemental water once established and only grows to about 15ft in height. Be sure to look for this small, pretty tree on campus!
