Screw Mesquite ( Prosopis Pubescens )

The Screw Mesquite (Prosopis pubescens), also known as Tornillo, is a resilient shrub or small tree native to the arid regions of the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. It typically grows to about 10-20 feet (3-6 meters) in height and is easily recognized by its distinctive, coiled seed pods that resemble screws, giving the plant its common name. The Screw Mesquite thrives in dry, sandy, or rocky soils and is highly drought-tolerant, making it well-suited to desert environments. Its feathery, gray-green leaves provide shade and habitat for desert animals, while its pods serve as a valuable food source for wildlife and even livestock. In addition to its ecological importance, the Screw Mesquite has been traditionally used by Indigenous peoples for its medicinal properties and as a food source. As a member of the Fabaceae family, it also helps improve soil quality by fixing nitrogen, contributing to the health of its arid ecosystem.