Care of the tree Prosopis chilensis or Chilean mesquite |
The genus Prosopis, family Fabaceae, comprises 45 species of trees and shrubs native to tropical and subtropical regions of Asia, Africa and America. Some species are: Prosopis chilensis, Prosopis africana, Prosopis alba, Prosopis glandulosa, Prosopis cineraria, Prosopis nigra. Common names: Chilean mesquite, Chilean algarrobo. This species is native to Chile. They are semi-deciduous trees (they lose leaves if it is very cold) with zigzagging branches, a rounded crown and long thorns that reach 12 meters (39.37 feet) in height. They have bipinnate leaves with thin and elongated light green leaflets. The showy yellowish cylindrical inflorescences contain numerous small flowers. The fruits have been consumed by indigenous peoples for thousands of years and have medicinal properties. This easy-to-grow plant is used in streets and public parks and in small and medium gardens as isolated specimens and to form windbreaks. It's ideal for Mediterranean coastal gardens. Prosopis chilensis can grow in full sun or light shade exposure. In winter it can lose the leaves; it's better not to expose it to frost. Chilean algarrobo can grow in any well-drained soil: poor, sandy, stony, and rocky. Water occasionally throughout the year always waiting for the substrate to have completely dried. Chilean mesquite does not need fertilizers. Prune after flowering to maintain a compact appearance and control growth. Prosopis chilensis is resistant to pests and diseases. Chilean algarrobo is easily propagated from seeds sown in spring or late winter. |
Images of the tree Prosopis chilensis or Chilean mesquite |