Ironwood
Olneya tesota
A keystone species of the Sonoran Desert, treasured for its dusty lavender blooms and extraordinary longevity.
Frost-sensitive when young, hardy to about 20°F; a low- and mid-desert Sonoran native that appreciates protection from hard frost while establishing.
AMWUA Notes
Extremely low water once established; a slow-growing keystone tree that needs almost no supplemental irrigation when mature.
Care Guide
Once established, water deeply once a month. Extremely drought tolerant and overwatering can cause root rot.
Minimal pruning needed. Remove dead branches in late winter. Natural form is attractive.
No fertilizer needed. Nitrogen-fixing legume tree.
Very few pest issues. Occasionally affected by leaf-footed bugs.
Beautiful lavender blooms in May. Evergreen to semi-evergreen.
Soil, Feeding & Propagation
Sharply draining sandy, gravelly, or decomposed-granite soil; tolerates caliche and alkaline pH 7.5–8.5 and resents wet ground
Needs sharp, fast-draining soil.
None — thrives in lean desert soil without fertilizer.
Grown from scarified seed; slow-growing, so start from established nursery stock
20–25 ft
Deep, non-aggressive roots are foundation-safe; keep 12+ ft from pools for thorns and pod litter
Placement Tips
- •Broad 25 ft evergreen canopy and a slow, long-lived habit make this a permanent specimen and nurse tree.
- •Medium thorns and seasonal flower and pod litter mean keeping it 12–15 ft from pools and walkways.
- •A keystone Sonoran species; pair with saguaro, palo verde, and understory wildflowers.
- •Full sun with sharp drainage; site once and leave undisturbed for its long life.
Features
Best Uses
Ecological Value
Wildlife Value
Companion Plants
Quick Stats
Design Styles
Include in Your Project
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Use this care guide to maintain your Ironwood. Questions about your landscape? Reach out anytime.
Data from 2024 AMWUA “Landscape Plants for the Arizona Desert” guide.