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Blue Palo Verde

Parkinsonia florida

In stock

5 gallon; 15 gallon

Plant Care

Native region:

Local Native

Water needs:

Very Low

Exposure:

Mature size:

Growth rate:

Full Sun

20'x20'

Fast

Flower color:

Flower season:

Pruning:

Yellow

Spring

To shape

Wildlife

Monarchs:

Nectar pollinators:

Yes

Nighttime pollinators:

Rabbit resistant:

Yes

The common name Palo Verde refers to the green bark of the trunk and limbs which are capable of low-level photosynthesis when the tree is leafless. The Blue Palo Verde has a slight blue-green tint to the bark and leaves. The leaves are small, round, and readily dropped in response to dryness. The attractive yellow flowers appear in spring but can also appear in response to summer rainfall. The seed pod resembles Mesquite and is valued by numerous animals. When in bloom the Blue Palo Verde attracts bees and other insects as well as a habitat for birds year-round. Usually a low-branching tree and often multi-trunk.
The Blue Palo Verde likes to grow along dry washes making it an extremely drought tolerant choice. Supplemental watering encourages faster growth but may result in weak limbs and shortened life span. It is recommended to reduce or discontinue supplemental water after the tree becomes established.
The Blue Palo Verde tends to bloom a little earlier than the other Palo Verdes and I like the rounder leaf, which makes up for the thorns in my opinion.

Growing Plants in the Desert — Important Information

The information presented here is, to the best of my knowledge, accurate and based on my research from reliable sources, observations I have made of plants growing in my, and other gardens I have visited, and observations of the plants in their native habitats. I would appreciate your feedback and experience to help me educate others!

Cacti: In my experience, cacti are much happier in the filtered shade here in the low desert of the Coachella Valley. Colors are more vibrant and they bloom more profusely, especially the non-native varieties. If you pay attention to how our native barrel and beavertail opuntia grow in the wild, it is frequently tucked in the rocks under creosote or another shrub.

Light Requirements: I have found that in our desert (Sonoran/Colorado) “full sun” plants can take and appreciate the late afternoon filtered sun, especially in the hot summer months.