Plant Guide: Ironwood Tree

Ironwood Exhibit, Desert Foothills Scenic Drive, 1995

The tree is named after the strength of its wood; one of the heaviest in the world. One cubic foot of ironwood can weigh up to 66 pounds. Also known as Arizona ironwood, desert ironwood, palo-de-hierro, tesota, and palo fierro. A member of the Pea Family.

• Can grow 30′ high.
• Never looses its small bluish green leaves.
• Blooms during the months of May and June and the trees are filled with flowers that range from pink and purplish to white. Flowers are followed by a brown, beanlike seed pod.
• Found below 2500′ elevation often near a wash. Most of the ironwoods on the Scenic Drive are located at the southern end near Jomax Road.
• The ironwood’s seeds are eaten by birds and animals and were eaten by the Native American People who once inhabited the foothills. Early settlers used it for firewood and it was used by Native Americans for tool handles and arrowheads.