Ironwood
Olneya tesota
Long-lived Sonoran native with dense canopy and lavender spring bloom.
Thayne Tuason / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 4.0 — license
Protected Native Plant Note: This plant may require special review before removal, relocation, transport, or installation. AE will confirm requirements when protected native plants are involved.
Schedule: Deep, infrequent — typically every 10–21 days mature, more often in summer establishment.
Emitters: Multiple large emitters or bubblers placed out at the drip line, not at the trunk.
Encourages deep roots and long-term tree stability. AE designs irrigation to expand as the tree matures.
Arizona yards have very different microclimates. West-facing walls, glass, artificial turf, pavers, travertine, porcelain, and pool decking all increase reflected heat. AE considers these before confirming placement.
- Mind clearance from pool deck
- Mind clearance from walls
AE verifies pool deck, paver, foundation, wall, and utility clearances before final planting.
Quick Facts
- Plant type
- Tree
- Mature size
- 25–30 ft tall and wide
- Sun
- Full sun
- Water use
- Very low
- Evergreen / Deciduous
- Semi-evergreen
- Thorns / spines
- Sharp
- Litter level
- Medium
- Pool area
- Use with care
- Pet/kid placement
- Use with care
- Maintenance
- Low
- Privacy value
- Medium
- Shade value
- High
- Native
- Sonoran native
About Ironwood
One of the slowest-growing and longest-lived desert trees. Iconic native character.
Best uses: Native shade tree, signature backyard tree
AE Designer Opinion
Design Uses
- Large backyards
- Native desert designs
- Specimen tree
Care & Maintenance
- Deep, infrequent water
- Minimal pruning
- Avoid wet feet
Pairs Well With
- Brittlebush
- Globe Mallow
- Prickly Pear
- Creosote
More Arizona Plants Like This
Ready to Build Your AE Plant Wishlist?
Add Ironwood and your other favorites to your wishlist, then send it to the AE design team for the final plant palette.