Blue Palo Verde

Actually, when in blossom in the springtime, these trees appear as masses of pale yellow and are a beautiful sight. It name is pronounced PAH-low-VEHR-dee. It is a member of the Pea Family. Both foothills and blue species are official Arizona state trees and both species can be seen along the Scenic Drive.

Grows up to 30' in height.
Blooms from April to May with bright yellow five-petaled flowers followed by flat, yellowish brown pod.
Found at from 500 to 4,000' elevation along washes, desert slopes, valleys and flood plains.
Branches and pods are browsed by wildlife. The seeds provide food for birds and mammals and are ground by Native Americans for meal.
Photosynthesis takes place in both the leaves and the bark. Leaves are drought deciduous.