Blue Palo Verdebluepalo.jpg

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.