Mesquite

Pollen Type: Tree

Cross-Reactivity: Other Mesquites

HS Allergy Extract: Mesquite

Family: Fabaceae

Genus/Species: Prosopis juliflora

Common Names: Mesquite

Distribution: Southwestern United States.

Locations: Frost-free arid and semi-arid natural grasslands, both in its native range and where introduced. It has been classified as an invasive species and is listed as a Federal noxious weed.

Pollination Method: Wind-pollinated

Pollinating Period: Spring into Fall depending on latitude and elevation

Description: Mesquite is a shrub or small tree native to Central and South America. It is also commonly found in the deserts in the United States and is very competitive for moisture with grassland species. Upon germination the roots may grow 4’ the first year, while the plant can grow up to 39’ tall with a trunk 3’ or more in diameter. Its leaves are deciduous, meaning they fall off once per year. They are light green and grow in a spreading fashion on both sides of the stem, 12-20 leaflets total. Flowers emerge shortly after leaf development and appear as long green-yellow cylindrical spikes, growing in clusters of 2-5 at the end of the branches. Seed pods also grow along the branches and contain 10-30 seeds per pod. Mature mesquite can produce hundreds of thousands of seeds, which remain viable for up to 10 years.

Photo Gallery: