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The
characteristics that sets this ‘AZT’ clone apart from seed
selections are faster growth with a v-shaped, upright form and
larger leaflets while retaining the graceful, chalk-gray trunks
and branches.
Ironwoods take
their name from the dense, dark and heavy wood the tree
produces. The wood is prized for carving and as firewood. It is
native to the southwestern US and northwestern Mexico. In native
settings it is typically found on rocky, well draining slopes
and plains at elevations below 2500 feet. Foliage is gray green
and semi-evergreen with leaves dropped in response to long
drought or freezing temperatures. Trees are hardy to 20 degrees
F but can sustain considerable foliage and small twig damage at
25 degrees F.
Mature trunks
and branches are pale gray/white while immature wood is pale
green and armed with many, sharp, curved thorns. The natural
growth habit is multiple trunks with branches extending to the
ground. Natural forms are excellent in plantings that transition
landscaped areas back to undisturbed desert or when used as a
security planting. To create a more cultivated appearance trees
will require selective pruning. Trees produce clusters of small
pink to purple flowers from April to June. Mature trees can grow
to 30' by 40' but typically are 15' to 20' tall and as wide.
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