Saturday, September 12, 2009

Mexican Palo Verde, Parkinsonia aculeata


The unusual shape and texture of this interesting tree never fails to get attention. The open airy crown is supported by a bright green trunk, branches, and twigs. The laves are very long and feathery, giving the whole a distinct 'weeping' character. the tiny little pinnate leaflets fall soon after the leaves are formed, leaving the strong green midrib to carry on with photosynthesis. In extreme dryness, these eventually also fall, leaving that work to the trunk and branches. The bright yellow, red-orange spotted flowers are delightfully half-hidden among the filmy green foliage.
Truly a tree of character, native to the US Southwest and Mexico, yet still very adaptable to our mediterranean climate.

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