Native Plant Database

Wasowski, Sally and Andy

Parkinsonia microphylla Torr.

Yellow paloverde, Foothill Paloverde, Littleleaf paloverde

Fabaceae (Pea Family)

Synonyms: Cercidium microphyllum

USDA Symbol: Pami5

USDA Native Status: Native to U.S.

Small, spiny tree that is leafless most of the year, with yellow-green trunk and wide, much-branched, open crown.

The Spanish common name, paloverde, meaning green tree or green pole, describes the smooth, green branches and twigs. During most of the year, in the absence of leaves, the branches and twigs manufacture food. This adaptation to a desert habitat exposes less surface to the sun, aiding moisture retention. Called Foothill or Yellow Paloverde, the species has a yellowish hue to its branches and foliage and occupies drier foothills. Blue Paloverde (P. florida), which has blue-green branches and foliage, occurs chiefly along drainages, blooms earlier, and has larger, deeper yellow flowers. Native Americans ground and ate the beanlike seeds of both species.

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