About Mariosousa heterophylla (Rose) Seigler & Ebinger
Nomenclature and Size
Mariosousa heterophylla (Rose) Seigler & Ebinger is a very slender tree that grows 10–20 feet or taller in height, with a spread equal to 1/3 to 2/3 of its height. It produces few branches and few leaves.
Stem and Rachis Structure
Its petiolar-rachis is characteristically long and functions as a cladophyll. The bark is white or yellow, and peels off.
Leaf Characteristics
Its compound leaves typically carry 5–6 leaflets at their end. This species may drop its leaves during autumn and winter.
Flower Traits
Flowers are arranged in pale yellow spikes, and have a catkin-like, rod-like, or bottle-brush shape, and are white or pale yellow in color.
Seed Pod Features
The seed pods are multichambered, and mature specimens reach 3–4 inches in length.
Endemic Distribution
This plant is endemic to Sonora, Mexico, where it grows in the Sonoran Desert.
Habitat Preferences
It prefers rocky bajadas, slopes, and arroyos at elevations between 0 and 2,000 feet.
Ornamental Use
It is a popular ornamental tree in arid regions, particularly in the southwestern United States.
