Contents
Description
Cercidium Floridum Subsp. Floridum, also known as the Sonoran Palo Verde or the Blue Palo Verde, is a deciduous tree that is native to the Sonoran Desert. It belongs to the Fabaceae family and is known for its beautiful blue-green bark and yellow flowers that bloom in the spring.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Cercidium |
Appearance
The Cercidium Floridum Subsp. Floridum can grow up to 30 feet tall and 30 feet wide. Its blue-green bark has a smooth texture and is covered in small thorns. The tree’s leaves are small and fern-like, and its yellow flowers bloom in clusters in the spring. Its fruit is a pod that can grow up to 3 inches long and is edible.
Care Guide
The Cercidium Floridum Subsp. Floridum is a hardy tree that can tolerate extreme temperatures and drought. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun exposure. Here are some tips for caring for this tree:
- Water: The tree can survive on natural rainfall, but it may need occasional watering during dry spells.
- Fertilization: The tree does not require regular fertilization, but it may benefit from a slow-release fertilizer in the spring.
- Soil: The tree prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate sandy or rocky soil types.
- Sunlight: The tree requires full sun exposure to thrive.
- Hardiness Zones: The tree can grow in USDA hardiness zones 8 to 10.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Cercidium Floridum Subsp. Floridum is relatively pest and disease-resistant. However, it may be susceptible to root rot if it is planted in poorly draining soil or overwatered. It may also attract aphids, which can be treated with insecticidal soap.
Habitat
The Cercidium Floridum Subsp. Floridum is native to the Sonoran Desert, which spans parts of Arizona, California, and Mexico. It can be found growing in arroyos, washes, and rocky slopes.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the Cercidium Floridum Subsp. Floridum be grown in a container?
A: It is not recommended to grow this tree in a container as it can grow quite large and requires full sun exposure.
Q: Are the pods of the Cercidium Floridum Subsp. Floridum edible?
A: Yes, the pods are edible and have been used by Native Americans in traditional dishes.
Q: How often should I water my Cercidium Floridum Subsp. Floridum?
A: The tree can survive on natural rainfall, but it may need occasional watering during dry spells.
Q: What is the best time of year to prune my Cercidium Floridum Subsp. Floridum?
A: The best time to prune this tree is in the late winter or early spring before new growth appears.
Related Plants
- Cercidium Microphyllum
- Cercidium Praecox
- Cercidium Torreyanum
References
- “Cercidium Floridum.” Arizona State University. https://horticulture.asu.edu/cercidium-floridum
- “Cercidium Floridum Subsp. Floridum.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center. https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=CEFLF
- “Blue Palo Verde.” DesertUSA. https://www.desertusa.com/flora/blue-palo-verde.html
