Fern of the Desert

Plant Type: tree
Plant Height: 15-25 feet
Spread: 15-25 feet
Flower Color: white
Sun Exposure: Full Sun, Partial Shade

Description:

Lysiloma thornberi, commonly known as Feather Bush or Thornber's Wattle, is a deciduous tree or large shrub native to the Southwestern United States and Northern Mexico, particularly adapted to desert and arid environments. It is celebrated for its delicate, fern-like foliage and showy, fluffy white flowers that bloom in late spring to early summer, offering a striking contrast against the bright green leaves.

Growing to about 15 to 25 feet in both height and spread, Lysiloma thornberi forms a rounded canopy that provides light, dappled shade, making it an excellent choice for landscape designs seeking to incorporate native or drought-tolerant plants. Its bark is smooth and light gray, adding further visual interest to the garden throughout the year.

Adapted to full sun to partial shade, Feather Bush thrives in well-draining soil and is highly drought-tolerant once established, requiring minimal supplemental watering. This makes it particularly suitable for xeriscaping, naturalized areas, or as a focal point in water-wise garden designs.

In landscaping, Lysiloma thornberi is often used as a specimen tree, in native plant gardens, or as part of a mixed border where its airy foliage and attractive blooms can be appreciated. It is also valued for its ability to provide light shade in outdoor seating areas or along walkways, where its fern-like leaves create a soft, textured canopy.

Overall, Lysiloma thornberi is a low-maintenance, attractive tree or shrub ideal for adding beauty and interest to dry, sunny areas of the garden. Its ease of care, adaptability to harsh growing conditions, and ornamental qualities make it a favored choice for gardeners and landscape designers looking to create sustainable, visually appealing landscapes in arid and semi-arid regions.