Honey Mesquite
Prosopis glandulosa

This tree is a smart choice for water conserving landscapes and can add beauty, drama and shade to any yard.

Some plants can grow up to 30 feet tall.

Habitat: Common tree in lower elevation areas of the Chihuahuan Desert and other ecoregions in Texas.

At the El Paso Zoo: A very large mesquite tree is growing across from the gift shop plus other trees can be found across the zoo along pathways.

During the 18th Century early settlers in Texas said that to survive the desert region you had to dig for wood and climb for water. They were referring to digging up mesquite roots for fuel and climbing windmills for water. Today these trees with their spicate flowers that attract honey bees are more popular for their wood that is made into charcoal. Many people love the smoky flavor of mesquite wood in transforming beef and vegetables with a wood smoke taste. The trees also are important to wildlife attracted to the seeds, leaves and bark. One study identified over 60 different species of bees feeding on the flower nectar making mesquite a great addition to pollinator gardens.

Photo credits
Cover and bottom, Jim Staley, Wikimedia Creative Commons
Top, Victoria, , Wikimedia Creative Commons