Page 25 - Edible Trees For Tucson

P L ANTIN G N O TES

Ironwood trees are very slow growing and
long-lived; their selection should be a careful,
intentional addition to desert food forests.
Ironwood is a keystone species, and may be used
as a nurse plant to protect other, more sensitive
plants. In its natural environment, ironwood
offers shade to many smaller desert plants and
fixes nitrogen in the soil to improve fertility.
• Chill hours: None required.
• Height/Width: 15-45 feet in height with
trunks 15-25 inches diameter.
• Lifespan: Certain individuals have lived for
1,500 years.
• Water needs: A xeroriparian species, but
highly drought-tolerant.
• Soils: Tolerates a wide range of soils.
• Microclimates: Ironwood prefers full sun.
Ironwood trees are frost sensitive; the stems
will suffer damage below 20ºF, but may grow
in colder areas if sheltered.
• Pollination: Flowers are insect pollinated.

CARE
The trees are heavily thorned and should be
carefully pruned if shaping is required or if used
in public spaces.
H AR VES T

Harvest ironwood pods when they are still gold-
green and the seeds are tender. Ironwood seeds
can be roasted and eaten, sprouted, or ground
into flour.

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