Palo verde (Parkinsonia praecox)
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 praecox, commonly known as palo verde, is a deciduous tree or shrub native to arid regions of America. It stands out for its smooth, bright green bark, which performs photosynthesis, and its thorny branches with small, ephemeral leaves. It's an excellent choice for xeriscape gardens and desert landscapes, adding a unique structural touch.
Native range
Mexico, Central America, and South America
Care tips
It requires full, direct sun for optimal development and abundant flowering. Watering should be scarce once established, as it tolerates long periods of drought; overwatering is its main enemy. It prefers very well-drained, sandy, or rocky soils, and it is crucial to avoid waterlogging. The most common mistake is frequent watering, which can lead to root rot.