Why Mesquite Trees Are The Unsung Heroes Of Southern Arizona

Mesquite trees are one of the most common sights in Arizona, especially in southern Arizona. These trees aren't huge, but they are easily spotted due to their feathery leaves, thorny branches, and beans they develop and drop in the late summer and early fall.

Not only are these trees seen everywhere, but they have also provided food, shade, and medicine for humans and animals alike all throughout history. What makes these plants so special, and how have they been able to survive in the desert for so long?

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The Tree of Life

Mesquite trees are some of the few species of vegetation that thrive in warm, dry climates. According to Biology Insights, mesquite trees have a two-root system. This system allows the trees to collect water from the surface of the ground and the deeper parts of the ground. Mesquite roots can extend anywhere between 50 and 200 feet below soil level. 

On top of that, mesquite trees develop complicated, massive systems of roots that can cover dozens of feet horizontally. Because of all these roots, they can absorb water much more effectively than other species of trees.

Mesquite trees, on average, survive for anywhere from 40 to 150 years. Some specific types of mesquites even live to be over 200 years old! Despite their thorny exterior and drought resistance, there are many pests and diseases that threaten the tree's lifespan, such as mistletoe and termites.

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Food Source

Mesquite trees are an important food source for animals, as well as people. Throughout history, mesquite has been used in hundreds of recipes. Towards the end of the summer months, this tree begins to drop a nutrient dense bean that can be turned into flour or used as a seasoning. The wood of the tree has also been used as a cooking wood for century's and provides food with a unique, smoky mesquite flavor.

According to the University of Arizona, mesquite is a member of the legume family.  Mesquite beans are full of fiber, protein, calcium, carbohydrates, and antioxidants, making it a natural superfood!

FUN FACT: Mesquite can be used to make alcoholic beverages!

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Medicinal Applications

Mesquite has also been used medicinally for centuries. Mesquite leaves were used as a natural remedy for stomach aches and digestive issues. Natives all over the world would turn the leaves into a drinkable liquid and give it to the sick. They also made mesquite tea and would occasionally drink it before a meal to improve digestion.

On top of its benefits to digestion, research shows that Mesquite also has anti-inflammatory properties! Mesquite sap and bark have been made into lotion for dozens and dozens of years. Lotion made from this plant is shown to soothe skin irritations such as bug bites, moisturize dry skin, and reduce inflation in the skin and joints.

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Mesquite trees tend to just blend into the background of Arizona life, but they are a unique species of tree that have provided lots to the desert over the years. From medicine to meals, the mesquite tree has been taking care of its ecosystem for centuries.

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