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Acacia constricta

Acacia constricta bean pods



Acacia constricta bean pods
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Whitethorn Acacia; Mescal Acacia
The Whitethorn Acacia was aptly named for the large white thorns that protrude in pairs from the leaf nodes. Often used as a low-maintenance barrier or buffer plant, this Arizona native will tend to become a thicket of thorny branches if left alone. With some training and pruning, the Whitethorn Acacia will become a small, multi trunked tree. Little to no supplemental water is necessary once established. Fragrant, yellow flower balls attract butterflies and birds in spring and intermittently through fall. Avoid planting near walkways.
FAMILY
Fabaceae
MATURE HEIGHT
8-10 ft
GROWTH HABIT
Dense, shrub-like
WATER REQUIREMENT
Drought Tolerant
HARDY TO
0°F
NATIVE REGION
Southern Arizona, New Mexico, western Texas and northern to central Mexico
TYPE
Shrub
SOIL TYPE
Sandy to rocky; clay
MAINTENACE TIPS
Light litter after seed pods drop. Watch for thorns.
ELEVATION
1,500 ft to 6,500 ft
MATURE WIDTH
8-10 ft
LEAF SHAPE
Bipinnate leaves
FLOWER COLOR
Yellow-orange
FLOWER CHARACTERISTICS
Clusters
FRUIT/SEED
Long, brown seed pods
SUN EXPOSURE
Full Sun
POLLINATORS
Bees and butterflies
PRUNING TIPS
None necessary. Prune as needed to create a small tree.
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