Paloverde Foothill palo verde Small-leaved palo verde
Cercidium microphyllum
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Pl. A2B3 — Cercidium microphyllum
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IOverview
Overview
Cercidium microphyllum, known as the Paloverde or Foothill palo verde, is a small tree native to the arid regions of Arizona, California, and parts of Mexico, as well as extending into Argentina and Bolivia. This plant thrives in full sun and can tolerate both dry and moist conditions, making it adaptable to various soil types including light (sandy), medium, and heavy (clay). It is hardy in zones 9-10 and reaches a height of about 4 meters. The paloverde is notable for its edible parts, which include the flowers, seeds, and seedpods, adding nutritional value to local ecosystems and human diets. One distinctive feature of this tree is its small, green leaves that help it conserve water in harsh environments.
Quick answers
What is Paloverde Foothill palo verde Small-leaved palo verde?
Cercidium microphyllum, known as the Paloverde or Foothill palo verde, is a small tree native to the arid regions of Arizona, California, and parts of Mexico, as well as extending into Argentina and Bolivia.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Paloverde thrives in full sun and is adaptable to various soil types, including light (sandy), medium, and heavy (clay). It prefers dry to moist conditions and grows best in zones 9-10. Propagate via seed for new plants. Harvest edible parts such as flowers, seeds, and seedpods.
Light
Full sun
Water
Dry, Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
9-10
Mature size
4.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Paloverde Foothill palo verde Small-leaved palo verde for the first time
8steps
Start with planting a small-leaved palo verde in your garden for a low-maintenance, drought-tolerant addition.
- 1
What you'll need
A young paloverde sapling and well-draining soil.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring or fall when temperatures are moderate.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Ensure the soil is sandy, medium, or clay with good drainage. Amend if necessary.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant a young sapling into a well-prepared garden bed or large pot.
- 5
First two weeks
Water sparingly to avoid root rot, then reduce watering as the plant establishes itself.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun and minimal water once established. Prune lightly in winter if needed.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune in late winter to maintain shape and remove dead branches.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in poorly drained soil, and not providing enough sunlight are common pitfalls.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:FlowersSeedSeedpod
Edible uses: The flowers and seedpods of the Paloverde are edible. The flowers can be eaten raw or used to make a tea, while the seedpods are typically cooked before consumption. Skip the seeds directly; they should be removed from the pod first.
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
19 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
19 native · 0 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 19 native
Americas7 regions
native (7)BoliviaColombiaEcuadorGuatemalaParaguayPeruVenezuela
Broader regions
native:Mexico Northwest, Arizona, California, Argentina Northeast, Argentina Northwest, Argentina South, Brazil West-Central, Mexico Central, Mexico Gulf, Mexico Northeast, Mexico Southeast, Mexico Southwest
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
Explore further
Companion planting
Growing zone
XII
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · a2b3806d-20be-4115-9d4b-f9431207e3dc
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