Tree Description:
A common shrub or small tree with light green foliage; often forms a multi-trunked clump shaped like a fountain.
Range/Site Description:
Widespread in South Texas, with small populations extending into Brazos and Travis counties. Occurs on heavy, wet clays and clay-loams.
Leaf:
Leaves almost feather-like, 1" to 4" long with minute leaflets just 0.1" long and too numerous to count. Foliage is gray-green and twigs are armed with a pair of straight thorns up to 2" long at the base of each leaf.
Flower:
The bright, orange-gold flowers are borne in spherical clusters up to 0.75" across, in spring. Very fragrant.
Fruit:
A small brown pod, 1" to 2" long, pointed at the tip. Shiny seeds are borne in two rows within the pod.
Bark:
Reddish-brown and thin on young plants, breaking into flat ridges and shallow furrows on older trees.
Wood:
Bark can be used for tanning, dying, and ink making. Pods have been used to create a mending substance for pottery.
Similar Species:
Honey mesquite (Prosopis glandulosa) can have similar form and bark, but leaves are much larger, greener.
Interesting Facts:
Flowers were collected to manufacture French perfume in 19th century.
