Palo verde (Parkinsonia aculeata)
Care, watering, light and tips for Palo verde on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Fabaceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 14 days
- Light: Full sun
- Temperature: 5–35 °C
- Toxicity: Toxic to pets
About Palo verde
Parkinsonia aculeata, commonly known as Jerusalem Thorn, is a deciduous or semi-evergreen shrub or small tree native to the Americas. It is characterized by its green bark, sharp thorns, and a profusion of bright yellow flowers that appear in spring and summer, making it ideal for xeriscape gardens or as a focal point in desert and Mediterranean landscapes. Its light, airy foliage adds interesting texture and dappled shade.
Native range
Southwestern United States, Mexico, the Caribbean, and South America.
Care tips
This plant thrives in full sun and tolerates poor, sandy, or rocky soils, provided they have good drainage. It is extremely drought-tolerant once established, requiring occasional, deep watering in very dry climates or during prolonged periods without rain. Avoid overwatering, as it is susceptible to root rot in waterlogged soils. A common mistake is planting it in partial shade or heavy soils, which will inhibit its vigorous growth and flowering.
How to save a dying Palo verde
- Warning signs
- Yellow leaves falling, dry or brittle branches, lack of flowering.
- First aid
- Check drainage and soil moisture. If dry, water deeply. If waterlogged, aerate soil. Prune dry branches.
- What kills it
- Overwatering in poorly drained soils (root rot) or prolonged drought.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if roots aren't completely rotted and there are green branches. Act fast.