Title: Blue Planet Biomes - Velvet Mesquite
Headings: Velvet Mesquite
Velvet Mesquite
Content: In warmer regions the leaves stay on   until just before new leaves grow in the spring. Velvet mesquite has   a massive root system which can grow down as far as 50 feet   to reach the water table. The taproot can be as big around   as the trunk itself. A second, lateral root system, spreads   out beyond the crown 6-12 inches below the soil surface to   catch and absorb any rain that may fall. Small pinnate   leaves reduce the surface area exposed to damaging   ultraviolet rays from the sun. Small fuzzy hairs on the   leaves and young pods deflect the sun's rays, and further   protect them. Large thorns on young branches protect the   tree from over eager browsers. Mesquite, along with   desert ironwoods are considered to be "nurse trees" to other   desert plants like the saguaro, organ pipe cactus, and may   succulents and forbs. Its nitrogen-rich soil feeds young   seedlings while the canopy provides shelter and shade. Its   foliage provides cover for large animals like javelinas and   mule deer as well.