Olneya tesota is a perennial evergreen drought-tolerant tree-like plant in the legume family, Fabaceae. Olneya tesota is commonly named ironwood and is found in its native region in the Sonoran Desert. The tree can grow up to 30 feet in height with a 2 feet wide trunk. Leaves are pinnately compounded with oval-shaped leaflets that are bluish-green. Flowers bloom in spring and are lavender colored. The tree is best known for its dense strong wood which sinks in water. It has been used for wood carvings and knife handles by the indigenous people of Sonora. The seeds are also edible, but must first be roasted. Olneya tesota does best in full sun and in well-draining soils. Water adequately when the soil appears dry and allow it to dry out before watering again. USDA plant hardiness zone 9a to 11b.
Olneya tesota seeds require scarification of their hard seed coat before sowing. Use a file, sandpaper, or nail clipper to remove the outer seed coat so water can penetrate the seed. After scarification, lightly press seeds into the soil being sure to cover them but not plant too deep. Sown seeds require consistent moisture but the soil should not remain soaking wet. Soil should be moist and well-draining, and kept between 65°F to 80°F for best results. Germination typically takes 1 to 2 weeks to occur. Even with optimal conditions, germination may be slow and sporadic.
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All packages will be shipped with basic customs information such as; HS codes, VAT numbers, and properly labeled contents. Unfortunately, The Garden of Set is unable to provide phytosanitary certificates for orders at this time. It is the buyer’s responsibility to know local laws regarding the import of plants, seeds, and plant products into their country. It is also up to the buyer to provide any other customs forms or information required to import plants into their country. If packages get stopped by customs, The Garden of Set will not be able to provide a refund for the purchase. Most of the time packages make it to their destinations just fine, this is for the small minority of packages that get stopped without having all the proper customs information required by the country of import. Purchase at your own discretion.