Contents
Description
Parkinsonia is a genus of flowering plants that belongs to the Fabaceae family. The genus is named after English apothecary and botanist, John Parkinson. Parkinsonia is native to arid regions in North and South America, and the Caribbean. The genus consists of two species: Parkinsonia florida and Parkinsonia aculeata. Parkinsonia florida is commonly known as blue paloverde, while Parkinsonia aculeata is known as Jerusalem thorn.Parkinsonia is a thorny, deciduous tree that can grow up to 30 feet tall. It has a smooth, greenish-brown bark that is often peeling. The leaves of Parkinsonia are compound and bipinnate, with small leaflets that are about 1-2 cm long. The flowers of Parkinsonia are bright yellow and appear in clusters. The fruit is a legume that is 5-12 cm long and contains several seeds.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Parkinsonia |
Appearance
Parkinsonia is a thorny tree that can grow up to 30 feet tall. It has a smooth, greenish-brown bark that is often peeling. The leaves of Parkinsonia are compound and bipinnate, with small leaflets that are about 1-2 cm long. The flowers of Parkinsonia are bright yellow and appear in clusters. The fruit is a legume that is 5-12 cm long and contains several seeds.
Care Guide
Parkinsonia requires well-drained soil and full sun exposure. It is a drought-tolerant plant and can survive in harsh conditions. However, it is important to water Parkinsonia regularly during its first year of growth. Fertilize the plant once a year in the spring using a balanced fertilizer. Parkinsonia is hardy to USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Parkinsonia is susceptible to spider mites, scale insects, and whiteflies. It can also be affected by root rot and leaf spot diseases. To prevent pests and diseases, it is important to maintain good hygiene practices and remove any diseased or infested parts of the plant.
Habitat
Parkinsonia is native to arid regions in North and South America, and the Caribbean. It can be found in deserts, arroyos, and washes.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Parkinsonia a good plant for landscaping?
A: Yes, Parkinsonia can be used in landscaping as it is a drought-tolerant plant that can survive in harsh conditions.
Q: Does Parkinsonia require a lot of water?
A: Parkinsonia is a drought-tolerant plant and can survive in harsh conditions. However, it is important to water Parkinsonia regularly during its first year of growth.
Q: What kind of soil does Parkinsonia need?
A: Parkinsonia requires well-drained soil.
Q: What are the common pests and diseases that affect Parkinsonia?
A: Parkinsonia is susceptible to spider mites, scale insects, and whiteflies. It can also be affected by root rot and leaf spot diseases.
Related Plants
- Mesquite
- Palo verde
- Acacia
- Ironwood
References
- “Parkinsonia.” The Plant List. www.theplantlist.org.
- “Parkinsonia.” Arizona State University. www.public.asu.edu.
- “Parkinsonia florida.” University of Florida IFAS Extension. edis.ifas.ufl.edu.
