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Description
Hesperalbizia Occidentalis, also known as Western Soapberry, is a deciduous tree that belongs to the Sapindaceae family. It is native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico, and can grow up to 50 feet tall with a spread of 25 feet at its maximum.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain: | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Phylum: | Angiosperms |
| Class: | Dicotyledonous |
| Order: | Sapindales |
| Family: | Sapindaceae |
| Genus: | Hesperalbizia |
Appearance
The bark of Hesperalbizia Occidentalis is grayish-brown and has a rough texture. The leaves are pinnate, with 7-15 leaflets that are up to 6 inches long and 2 inches wide. The tree produces small white or greenish flowers in the summer, followed by yellow-green fruit that resemble soapberries in the fall. The fruit is edible but has a bitter taste and is often used for soap-making.
Care Guide
Hesperalbizia Occidentalis requires well-draining soil and full sun exposure to grow properly. It is drought-tolerant and can survive in a variety of soil types, but prefers sandy or loamy soils. Water the tree regularly during its first year of growth, and then reduce watering to once or twice a month once established. Fertilize the tree once a year with a balanced fertilizer. Hesperalbizia Occidentalis is hardy in USDA zones 6-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Hesperalbizia Occidentalis is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but can be affected by spider mites, aphids, and scale insects. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil. The tree may also be susceptible to root rot if overwatered or planted in poorly-draining soil.
Habitat
Hesperalbizia Occidentalis is commonly found in riparian areas, on rocky slopes, and in mesquite woodlands. It is native to Arizona, New Mexico, Texas, and northern Mexico, and can also be found in California and Utah.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water Hesperalbizia Occidentalis?
A: Water the tree regularly during its first year of growth, and then reduce watering to once or twice a month once established.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Hesperalbizia Occidentalis?
A: Hesperalbizia Occidentalis is hardy in USDA zones 6-9.
Q: What do the fruit of Hesperalbizia Occidentalis look like?
A: The fruit of Hesperalbizia Occidentalis are yellow-green and resemble soapberries.
Q: Is Hesperalbizia Occidentalis edible?
A: The fruit of Hesperalbizia Occidentalis is edible but has a bitter taste and is often used for soap-making.
Related Plants
- Hesperalbizia Wrightii
- Hesperalbizia Occidentalis var. Disparilis
- Hesperalbizia Monosperma
References
- https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=HEOC3
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/trees/soapberry/western-soapberry-tree-info.htm
- https://www.arborday.org/trees/treeguide/TreeDetail.cfm?ItemID=978
