Taxonomy

Division:

Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants

Family:

Fabaceae

Genus:

Parkinsonia

Species:

Parkinsonia aculeata

Growth Characteristics

Life Cycle:

Perennial

Growth Habit:

Shrub , Tree

Height:

20-40 ft

Light Requirements:

Full Sun

Drought Tolerance:

High

Bloom Months:

mar, apr, may, sep, oct, nov

Bloom Colors:

yellow

Native Range

United States: Alabama, Arizona, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, New Mexico, Nevada, Puerto Rico, South Carolina, Texas, Utah, Virgin Islands

Keystone Species Ranking

Bee Keystone:

★★★☆☆ Based on number of native bee species using this genus for pollen and nectar (Source: National Wildlife Federation)

Host Plant for Caterpillars

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:

poor, sandy, well-drained soil

pH:

6.0 - 8.0 (slightly acidic to neutral)

Drainage:

excellent drainage required

Moisture:

dry to moderate

Notes:

Adapted to arid and semi-arid regions