Family: Fabaceae
Author: (Humb. & Bonpl. ex Willd.) M.C.Johnst.
Bibliography: Brittonia 14: 78 (1962)
Year: 1962
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Prosopis
Vegetable: False
Observations: Texas to Mexico
Description
Smooth mesquite, scientifically known as Prosopis laevigata, is a remarkable species belonging to the Fabaceae family. This plant has been documented and described in the scholarly publication Brittonia 14: 78, dating back to 1962, with its scientific authorship attributed to (Humb. & Bonpl. ex Willd.) M.C. Johnst.
Native to regions stretching from Texas to Mexico, smooth mesquite thrives in arid and semi-arid environments. It is a hardy species well-suited to the challenging conditions prevalent in its natural habitat. The plant is characterized by its smooth, thornless branches, which distinguish it from other mesquite species that typically have spines or thorns.
Smooth mesquite plays a significant ecological role in its native range. It often serves as a vital source of shade and a habitat for various wildlife species. Its deep-rooted nature aids in soil stabilization and helps in the conservation of moisture in the soil, making it an essential component of the ecosystem in arid regions.
Moreover, the tree is valued for its utility in traditional and modern contexts. Historically, it has been used by indigenous peoples for its wood and pods. The wood is durable and can be used for construction and fuel, while the pods can be ground into flour, providing a nutrient-rich food source.
Overall, Prosopis laevigata or smooth mesquite represents a significant plant species within its native range due to its ecological importance, its adaptability to harsh environments, and its various uses.
Common Names
Eng: smooth mesquite
Spa: mesquite, mezquite blanco, algarrobo
En: Smooth mesquite
Es: Mesquite, Mezquite Blanco, Algarrobo
Synonyms
- Mimosa rotundata (Sessé & Moc.)
- Prosopis dulcis (Kunth)
- Acacia laevigata (Humb. & Bonpl. ex Willd.)
- Neltuma michoacana (Britton & Rose)
- Neltuma laevigata ((Humb. & Bonpl. ex Willd.) Britton & Rose)
Distribution
- Mexico Central (native)
- Mexico Gulf (native)
- Mexico Northeast (native)
- Mexico Southeast (native)
- Mexico Southwest (native)
- Texas (native)
Additional Images
Leaf
Taken Apr 16, 2021 by moyotl cuikayotl (cc-by-sa)
Taken Apr 16, 2021 by moyotl cuikayotl (cc-by-sa)
Taken Apr 16, 2021 by moyotl cuikayotl (cc-by-sa)
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
Sources
- WFO (No URL)
- IPNI (No URL)
- GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/5358498)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:210461-2)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Prosopis laevigata (Willd.) M.C.Johnst.)
Specifications
Growth habit>: Shrub, Tree