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Acacia constricta

Whitethorn Acacia; Mescat 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

8-10 ft

MATURE WIDTH

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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