Cercidium floridum (syn. Parkinsonia florida) - Palo Verde

Deciduous tree to 15-20 ft. Fast growing. Thorny blue-green branches are bare most of the year, with occasional spells of ephemeral green leaves and a bounty of yellow flowers in spring. Best for hot, dry gardens; susceptible to powdery mildew in coastal gardens. Full sun. Low to no water once established. Requires fast draining soils. Hardy to 15° F