I found these seedpods on a landscape tree and need info on what type of tree this is and how does the seedpod behave? For example, does the seedpod explode or open up? There are approximately 21-25 closed spiral pods per stem. I am making jewelry out of them and need this information.
A.: Those are fruits of the screwbean mesquite tree (Prosopis pubescens Benth). The tree is native to the Sonoran Desert, as are the honey mesquite and the velvet mesquite. The seedpods look like a tightly wound spring or a screw, hence the common name. Animals that ingest them may disperse the seeds or the seeds may lie dormant in the environment for years in their protective coat. The pods don’t explode or open up and may be well suited for your purpose. Also, these are tasty and have been a traditional food in the Southwest for many years. You can usually find the flour milled from the beans at local stores. If you harvest your own pods you might be interested in the milling events provided by local nonprofit organizations.
Peter L. Warren is the urban horticulture agent for the Pima County Cooperative Extension and the University of Arizona. Questions may be emailed to
