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Description
Cercidium Microphyllum, commonly known as Palo Verde, is a small tree or large shrub that is native to the Sonoran Desert. It is a member of the Fabaceae family and can grow up to 20 feet in height. The tree is characterized by its green bark, which helps it to photosynthesize even when there are no leaves present. Palo Verde is highly adapted to desert conditions and can survive for long periods without water. It produces small, yellow flowers and green pods that contain seeds.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Cercidium |
Appearance
Palo Verde has a unique appearance with its green bark, which helps it to photosynthesize. The tree has small leaves that are bright green in color and oval-shaped. It produces small, yellow flowers that bloom in the spring and green pods that contain seeds. The tree can grow up to 20 feet in height and has a spreading canopy that provides shade in the desert.
Care Guide
Water: Palo Verde requires regular watering in the first few years after planting. After that, it can survive on natural rainfall.Fertilization: Fertilize the tree once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.Soil: Palo Verde prefers well-draining, sandy soil.Sunlight: The tree requires full sunlight to grow and thrive.Hardiness Zones: Palo Verde is hardy in zones 8-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Palo Verde is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered.
Habitat
Palo Verde is native to the Sonoran Desert and can be found in Arizona, California, and Mexico. It is highly adapted to desert conditions and can survive for long periods without water.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Palo Verde grow in containers?
A: Yes, Palo Verde can be grown in containers, but it will require regular pruning to keep its size manageable.Q: How often should I water my Palo Verde tree?
A: In the first few years after planting, water the tree regularly. After that, it can survive on natural rainfall.Q: Does Palo Verde require full sunlight?
A: Yes, Palo Verde requires full sunlight to grow and thrive.Q: How tall can Palo Verde grow?
A: Palo Verde can grow up to 20 feet in height.
Related Plants
– Cercidium Floridum- Cercidium Praecox- Cercidium Torreyanum
References
– “Cercidium microphyllum” Desert Botanical Garden.- “Palo Verde Tree” Moon Valley Nurseries.- “Cercidium microphyllum” University of Arizona.
