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Description
Olneya Tesota, commonly known as the desert ironwood, is a slow-growing, evergreen tree that is native to the southwestern United States and Mexico. It belongs to the Fabaceae family, which is the third-largest family of flowering plants.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Olneya |
Appearance
The desert ironwood tree can grow up to 30 feet tall and has a spread of about 20 feet. It has a dense, rounded canopy with dark green, leathery leaves that are about 2 inches long. The tree produces small, fragrant, pinkish-purple flowers in the spring, which are followed by seed pods that are about 8 inches long and contain several seeds.
Care Guide
Olneya Tesota requires well-draining soil and full sunlight to thrive. It is a drought-tolerant tree that can survive in a wide range of soil types. Water the tree deeply once a week during the growing season, and reduce watering in the winter. Fertilize the tree once a year in the spring with a slow-release fertilizer. The tree is hardy to USDA zones 9 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The desert ironwood tree is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if grown in poorly-draining soil. Watch for signs of wilting or yellowing leaves, which can indicate a problem with the roots.
Habitat
Olneya Tesota is native to the Sonoran and Mojave Deserts in the southwestern United States and Mexico. It is commonly found in arid regions, such as desert washes, rocky slopes, and canyon bottoms.
Question and Answer
Q: How fast does Olneya Tesota grow?
A: Olneya Tesota is a slow-growing tree and typically grows less than a foot a year.
Q: Is Olneya Tesota drought-tolerant?
A: Yes, Olneya Tesota is a drought-tolerant tree and can survive in a wide range of soil types.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Olneya Tesota?
A: Olneya Tesota is hardy to USDA zones 9 to 11.
Q: What are the seed pods of Olneya Tesota used for?
A: The seed pods of Olneya Tesota are used by Native Americans for food and medicinal purposes.
Related Plants
- Acacia greggii
- Prosopis glandulosa
- Larrea tridentata
- Fouquieria splendens
References
- “Olneya Tesota.” Desert USA.
- “Olneya Tesota.” Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum.
- “Olneya Tesota.” University of Arizona.
