Everything You Should Know About the State Tree of Arizona- The Palo Verde
The state tree of Arizona, the Palo Verde, is set to bloom in late March-adding some color to our desert this season! With this tree being such a hit here in Arizona, we have decided to share some amazing facts about this special, native tree!
The Palo Verde Tree was designated as the state tree of Arizona in the year 1954.
There are two main species of Palo Verde here in our desert, commonly known as the Foothills Palo Verde and the Blue Palo Verde. The Foothills Palo Verde is known for its yellow flowers during bloom as well as for its tiny leaves and ability to grow in dry conditions. The Blue Palo Verde is more likely to be found near a water source, such as a wash, and typically has a blue-green colored trunk.
The leaves of the Palo Verde are present on the tree from Mid-Spring until around November, at which time these trees drop their leaves for the cooler months.
The Palo Verde trees have a deep root system which allows them to access ground water and helps them survive dry climates, droughts, and even flash flooding that can occur during our Arizona monsoon season.
Due to the small flowers on the tree, it does most of its photosynthesizing through its bark/trunk. This is why the trunk of both species of Palo Verde is typically a green/blue color rather than brown or tan.
The seeds and flowers of the Palo Verde tree are actually edible. In fact, it is known that they are quite sweet to taste.
Interested in installation of Palo Verdes in your master-planned community or commercial landscape? ELS is here to help!