Eligible desert-adapted shade trees
These are the types of desert-adapted shade trees eligible for the SRP Shade Tree Program.
Native Mesquite
This extremely tough tree is tolerant of drought, full sun, and reflected heat. Its dense canopy of ferny green foliage provides welcome shade in the summer months. It does have small, sharp thorns so be cautious about site selection.
Palo Verde
This tree usually grows to a height of 30 feet. It blooms in the spring with profuse clusters of golden-yellow blossoms. It does have small, sharp thorns so be cautious about site selection.
Thornless Palo Verde
This tree grows to a height of 25 feet and is a hybrid of several different Palo Verde trees. It has small, bright green, compound leaves and smooth lime green bark. Masses of large, bright yellow flowers are produced from March though May, with sporadic flowering during the summer months.
Thornless Mesquite
This tree has a reliable root system that anchors the tree even in strong winds. It will reach a mature size of 30 feet tall and wide.
Desert Willow
Long, narrow bright green leaves give the tree a willowy appearance. The large orchid-like flowers provide warm season color, which attract hummingbirds and bees. The fragrant flowers range from white to dark pink.
Willow Acacia
This evergreen Australian native has narrow green leaves and a weeping growth habit, making it ideal for use around water features or in oasis zones.
The trees will be approximately 4- to 6-foot saplings. You simply need to attend an SRP workshop about how to best select, plant and care for your trees.
