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Description
Robinia Neomexicana, commonly known as New Mexico Locust or New Mexican Locust, is a deciduous tree that belongs to the pea family (Fabaceae). It is native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico, where it grows in dry, rocky canyons and slopes, as well as in pine-oak and juniper woodlands. The tree typically reaches a height of 20 to 30 feet and a spread of 15 to 25 feet, with a rounded crown and an irregular, open branching habit.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Robinia |
| Species | Neomexicana |
Appearance
The leaves of Robinia Neomexicana are pinnately compound, with 7 to 15 leaflets that are oblong to elliptic in shape and 0.5 to 1 inch long. The leaflets are dark green in color and turn yellow in the fall. The tree produces fragrant white to pink flowers in late spring or early summer, which are arranged in drooping clusters that are 4 to 6 inches long. The fruit is a flat, brown pod that is 2 to 4 inches long and contains several seeds.
Care Guide
Robinia Neomexicana prefers well-drained soils that are moderately fertile and slightly acidic to neutral in pH. The tree is drought-tolerant once established, but benefits from regular watering during its first few years of growth. Fertilization is not usually necessary, but a balanced fertilizer can be applied in early spring if desired. The tree can tolerate full sun to partial shade and is hardy in USDA zones 5 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Robinia Neomexicana is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may be susceptible to leaf spot, canker, and root rot if grown in poorly drained soils. The tree may also be attacked by spider mites, aphids, and borers, which can cause defoliation and weaken the tree. Regular monitoring and appropriate control measures can help prevent or manage these problems.
Habitat
Robinia Neomexicana is native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico, where it grows in a variety of habitats, including dry canyons and slopes, rocky outcrops, and woodlands. It is often found growing alongside other drought-tolerant plants, such as junipers, oaks, and yuccas.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Robinia Neomexicana a good plant for landscaping?
A: Yes, Robinia Neomexicana can be an attractive and low-maintenance tree for landscaping in dry or rocky areas.
Q: What is the best time to prune Robinia Neomexicana?
A: The best time to prune Robinia Neomexicana is in late winter or early spring, before new growth starts.
Q: Can Robinia Neomexicana be grown in containers?
A: While it is possible to grow Robinia Neomexicana in containers, the tree may not thrive as well as it would in the ground and may require more frequent watering and fertilization.
Q: Is Robinia Neomexicana toxic to animals or humans?
A: Yes, all parts of Robinia Neomexicana, including the leaves, flowers, and pods, contain toxic compounds that can cause gastrointestinal upset, respiratory distress, and other symptoms if ingested by animals or humans.
Related Plants
- Robinia hispida (Bristly Locust)
- Robinia pseudoacacia (Black Locust)
- Robinia viscosa (Clammy Locust)
References
- Bonner, F. T. (2019). Trees of the Southwest: A Guide for Identification and Use (2nd ed.). University of Texas Press.
- Harrington, H. D. (1972). Edible Native Plants of the Rocky Mountains. University of New Mexico Press.
- Moore, M. (2014). Medicinal Plants of the Mountain West. Museum of New Mexico Press.
