Parkinsonia florida (Blue Palo Verde)

An Arizona native, this upright to spreading thorny tree is common at elevations below 4000 feet. The blue-green branches carry on photosynthesis when the small blue-green, compound leaves drop due to drought or cold. Masses of bright yellow flowers cover this tree in the spring through early summer, blooming before the Parkinsonia microphylla. Plant in full sun, reflected heat, and well-drained soils.