Mesquite

Prosopis spp.

Drought-adapted southwestern North American shrub or tree. Pods ground into mesquite flour for baking; deep taproot can reach groundwater 50 m+ below the surface.

Hardiness ratings

Mesquite hardiness across the four zone systems
SystemRatingTemperature rangeHow to read it
USDA hardiness zone Zone 7–11 −17.8 °C to 10 °C Plant tolerates down to this zone
RHS hardiness rating H5 −15 °C to −10 °C Plant needs at least this level of cold tolerance
Canadian plant hardiness zone Zone 7–9 −12 °C and warmer Plant tolerates down to this zone
Australian (ANBG) zone Zone 3–7 −5 °C and warmer Plant tolerates down to this zone

Growing notes

  • Listed as a major invasive weed across northern Australia — check biosecurity rules; planting may be prohibited
  • Several species and hybrids are sold as "mesquite" — most have similar habits and uses
  • Wood is exceptional firewood and a prized smoking wood for barbecue

Categories

Related plants

Cross-check Mesquite against your zones

Reference

Mesquite on Wikipedia