Where to Find Screwbean Mesquite?

Q. After reading about the many desirable qualities of screwbean mesquite trees, I am determined to plant two of them in my yard. However, today I searched the nurseries and discovered there was none to be found. One nursery offered to order them for me. I would rather see what I am buying. Do you know of any place that carries them?  Do I have to start my own from seed?

Seed pod of screwbean mesquite

A. Screwbean mesquite is a very nice small desert tree native to southern Nevada but not in high demand by the public. So, the local nurseries typically don’t carry them.  It’s a “chicken vs egg” problem in marketing and sales. Some nurseries will order them for you and that’s nice they offer that service. You may or may not be able to see the tree ahead of purchase going this route. Ask.

Screwbean mesquite is an excellent small Nevada native tree that does not need much water to get to its mature size. This tree can be found at the Las Vegas Springs Preserve.

            Locally, try the State Forest Nursery at Floyd Lamb State Park and check the availability there. (Update: they had them available). They have a website and post plant availability, but it doesn’t hurt to give them a call since not everything is posted.

Contact the Nevada State Forest Nursery

Screwbean mesquite trunk

            On to propagation. The tree is easy to propagate from seed, cuttings or marcottage but for the inexperienced probably seed propagation is the easiest method. Just remember, all tree seeds in the Mesquite or Legume family will have a hard coating surrounding the seed that prevents accidental germination. You must damage this seed coat for good germination.

The dried brown seedpods are where the seed can be found in midsummer

            Pick seed from pods hanging from good looking trees in midsummer or when the pods are brown. Open the pods and pick ten of the largest seeds you can find. Damage the seed coat with sandpaper, small file or razor blade with as little damage to the seed as possible. Soak this seed in warm water for a few hours to get germination started.

            While you’re waiting, fill a clean nursery container with potting soil to within one inch below its top lip. Plant the seed one-half inch deep and two to three inches apart. Keep seed moist but not wet. Don’t water too often!