Contents
Description
Cercidium is a genus of flowering plants commonly called Palo Verde. The name “Palo Verde” means “green stick” in Spanish, referring to its green bark. Palo Verde is a small to medium-sized tree that is native to the southwestern United States and Mexico. It belongs to the Fabaceae family and is known for its small leaves and bright yellow flowers that bloom in spring. Palo Verde is a popular ornamental tree and is also used for medicinal purposes.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Cercidium |
Appearance
Palo Verde is a small to medium-sized tree that grows up to 30 feet tall. It has a greenish-gray bark that is photosynthetic, enabling it to carry out photosynthesis even when the leaves fall. The leaves are small and grow in clusters, giving the tree a delicate appearance. The bright yellow flowers bloom in spring and are followed by long seed pods that are green when young and turn brown as they mature. The seeds inside the pods are edible and were used by Native Americans as a food source.
Care Guide
Palo Verde is a hardy tree that is easy to care for. Here are some care tips:- Water: Palo Verde trees are drought-tolerant and do not require much water. Water deeply once a week during the growing season and once a month during winter.- Fertilization: Fertilize Palo Verde trees once a year in spring using a balanced fertilizer.- Soil: Palo Verde trees prefer well-draining soil. Amend heavy clay soil with sand and organic matter to improve drainage.- Sunlight: Palo Verde trees require full sun to grow well.- Hardiness Zones: Palo Verde trees are hardy in USDA zones 8 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Palo Verde trees are generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, they may be affected by the following:- Borer insects: These insects can bore into the tree and cause damage. Use insecticides to control them.- Spider mites: These pests can cause the leaves to turn yellow and fall off. Use insecticidal soap to control them.- Root rot: This disease can occur if the soil is too wet. To prevent it, make sure the soil is well-draining.
Habitat
Palo Verde trees are native to the southwestern United States and Mexico, where they grow in arid and semi-arid regions. They are commonly found in deserts, rocky slopes, and washes.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Palo Verde a good tree for landscaping?
A: Yes, Palo Verde is a popular ornamental tree because of its delicate appearance and bright yellow flowers.
Q: Can I eat the seeds inside the Palo Verde seed pods?
A: Yes, the seeds are edible and were used by Native Americans as a food source.
Q: How often should I water my Palo Verde tree?
A: Water deeply once a week during the growing season and once a month during winter.
Q: What are some common pests and diseases that affect Palo Verde trees?
A: Palo Verde trees may be affected by borer insects, spider mites, and root rot.
Related Plants
– Parkinsonia- Prosopis- Acacia
References
– Arizona State University. (n.d.). Cercidium. Retrieved from https://cals.arizona.edu/yavapaiplants/SpeciesDetail.php?genus=Cercidium- University of Arizona. (n.d.). Palo Verde. Retrieved from https://cals.arizona.edu/yavapaiplants/SpeciesDetail.php?genus=Cercidium
