Flowers and fruit occur as early as March in the southern states of Sonora and Baja California, Mexico, than in Arizona and California to the north. Ironwood leaves usually turn yellow and are shed in April before the trees flower. The flowering period in each locality lasts only 10-18 days.

Do ironwood trees bloom every year?

The desert ironwood (Olneya tesota) is a hardy tree that grows up to 35 feet tall. ... The trees don't bloom every year, perhaps two out of five. The flowers range from white to deep lavender, often becoming darker with age. The trees bloom for only 10 to 18 days.

Do ironwood trees drop their leaves?

The only species in the genus Olneya, ironwood is notable for its slow growth rates and extremely dense wood. Its wood even sinks in water. ... Unlike other desert trees, ironwood rarely sheds all its leaves, so that its canopy provides shade and protection from frost and extreme heat year round.