Parkinsonia

These tender, spiny trees or shrubs are natives of tropical America. These trees grow quickly when young, but slow down as they age; they eventually attain a height of about 30 feet. P. aculeata, commonly known as the Jerusalem Thorn, Mexican Paloverde and Ratama, is an attractive tree that can be grown in warm, tropical climates only. Its green branches are irregularly arranged and equipped with pointy spines. The interesting, feathery, compound leaves are 8 to 12 inches long and consist of numerous, tiny, somewhat spherical leaflets, growing only 1/8th-inch long. During times of drought or cool weather, the leaves will fall; however, the green branches are full of chlorophyll and continue to produce food for the plant. In spring and early summer and other various times of the year, the Jerusalem Thorn produces airy bunches of 3/4-inch, yellow flowers, which can easily be seen through the delicate foliage. Once the flowers fade, brown seedpods, which grow from 2 to 5 inches long, develop. This tree withstands heavy pruning and is suitable for growing as a hedge plant.

Pot Cultivation

Grow Jerusalem Thorns in full sun in any well-drained soil. It can be grown in desert conditions and near the sea as well as in yards. These trees can be pruned in the spring. Older trees hardly ever need it.

Propagation

Sowing seeds is the simplest method of propagation.

P. aculeata

VARIETIES

P. aculeata; P. Torreyana.