Prosopsis pubescens - Screwbean Mesquite

Deciduous shrub or small tree to 20 ft. Fern-like green leaves on spiny, mahogany-colored branches. Yellow flowers spring into summer followed by unique spiral-shaped bean pods. Provides food and shelter to myriad wildlife; host plant of Palmer's Metalmark butterfly. Full sun, low water. Grows vigorously with supplemental water. Prefers fast draining soils. Hardy to 15°F.