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Arizona Ironwood
(Olneya tesota)
OPEN AREA NORTHWEST OF OLD MAIN
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Arizona Ironwood |
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(Olneya tesota) |
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OPEN AREA NORTHWEST OF OLD MAIN |
| 33 | Most valuable tree in the Sonoran Desert |
| In Depth | Olneya tesota, Arizona Ironwood |
| Location: OPEN AREA NORTHWEST OF OLD MAIN | |
| Family: Fabaceae family | |
| Distribution: Sonoran Desert of U.S. and Mexico | |
| Habitat: Washes and valleys of low desert | |
| Habit: Small sparse trees usually about 15-25 feet in height | |
| Flowering: From April to about June with clusters of pink pea-like flowers. | |
| Natural History Notes: The ironwood is an important species in the Sonoran Desert ecology. It is the tallest growing tree in the Sonoran Desert and provides a needed micro-habitat for many desert species. It has very hard, strong, heavy wood that actually sinks in water. It has been used by natives to make tool handles and ornamental and artistic carvings. Its wood also burns very hot and is often used to make charcoal. It is actually a drought deciduous tree, meaning during dry periods it will shed its leaves to preserve water and conserve its energy for flowering and regeneration after the spring rains. It is also the only species in its genus. |