Prosopis species hybridize readily and are difficult to distinguish. Common names are often confused in nursery specimens.
Mesquites respond to water with fast, lush top growth. However, this might not be balanced by adequate root growth and so trees are prone to blow over.
Water deeply, widely and infrequently to prevent the problem.
- Prosopis chilensis — Chilean mesquite is a very common tree in Southern Arizona. Some have thorns. Grows to 30 feet, with an equal or sometimes smaller spread.
- Prosopis velutina — Velvet mesquite, also called Arizona mesquite. Naturally shrubby, with gnarled and twisted branches. Grows up to 30 feet high with equal spread. Pods are delicious.
- Prosopis alba — Argentine mesquite. Grows to 20-40 feet. Fast grower. May or may not have thorns. Attracts bees and makes excellent honey.
- Prosopis glandulosa (honey mesquite or Texas mesquite) Pods are edible.
- Prosopis pubescens (screwbean mesquite) Pods are edible.
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Source: Master Gardeners of the University of Arizona Pima County Cooperative Extension
