Arizona State Tree

Palo Verde

(Parkinsonia florida)

The Palo Verde (Parkinsonia florida), designated as Arizona's state tree, is a hardy and iconic symbol of the state's arid landscapes. Its name, which means "green stick" in Spanish, reflects its unique adaptation to the desert environment. The Palo Verde is renowned for its distinctive green bark, which allows it to photosynthesize even during droughts when it sheds its leaves. In the spring, the tree bursts into vibrant yellow blossoms, creating a breathtaking contrast with the stark desert terrain. As a keystone species, the Palo Verde provides crucial habitat and sustenance for a variety of desert wildlife, making it not only a botanical emblem of resilience but also an ecological cornerstone in the Arizona desert ecosystem.