Prosopis pubescens

Prosopis pubescens, commonly known as the Screwbean Mesquite, is a species of flowering plant in the pea family, Fabaceae. It is native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico, where it grows in desert and other types of dry habitats.

Description

The Prosopis pubescens is a small tree or large shrub growing up to 7 meters tall. It has a twisted trunk and a crown of spreading branches. The bark is dark brown and deeply furrowed. The leaves are bipinnate, with one or two pairs of pinnae, each pinna with several pairs of leaflets. The inflorescence is a spike of many flowers. The fruit is a legume pod, twisted into a helix, hence the common name "screwbean". The seeds are edible and were a food source for native peoples.

Distribution and habitat

The Prosopis pubescens is found in the southwestern United States, specifically in the states of California, Arizona, New Mexico, Texas, and Nevada. It also extends into northern Mexico. It is typically found in desert washes, floodplains, and other dry habitats.

Uses

The seeds of the Prosopis pubescens were traditionally used as a food source by Native American tribes, such as the Pima and Papago. The wood is also used for fuel and to make tools.

Conservation status

The Prosopis pubescens is not currently listed as threatened or endangered. However, like many desert species, it may be affected by climate change and habitat loss.

See also

• Prosopis glandulosa
• Prosopis velutina

References

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