Sissoo Tree

Plant Type: tree
Plant Height: 45-60 feet
Spread: 30-40 feet
Flower Color: yellow or white
Sun Exposure: Full Sun

Sissoo Tree (Dalbergia sissoo): A Fast-Growing Shade Solution for Arizona Landscapes

The Sissoo Tree, or Indian Rosewood (Dalbergia sissoo), is a fast-growing, drought-tolerant tree that thrives in Arizona’s hot, dry climate. Known for its lush green canopy and adaptability, the Sissoo Tree is a popular choice for creating shade and adding vibrant greenery to residential and commercial landscapes.

Key Features of the Sissoo Tree

• Rapid Growth: Reaches 40 to 60 feet in height with a wide 25 to 30-foot canopy, making it an ideal shade tree for quick coverage.
• Lush Foliage: Bright green, lance-shaped leaves form a dense canopy that cools the surrounding area and enhances landscape aesthetics.
• Drought Tolerance: Once established, the Sissoo Tree requires minimal water, making it perfect for water-wise landscaping in desert climates.

Ideal Growing Conditions

• Sunlight: Thrives in full sun.
• Soil: Adaptable to various soil types but performs best in well-drained soil.
• Watering: Benefits from regular watering during establishment but tolerates dryness once mature.
• Maintenance: Low-maintenance; occasional pruning controls size and shape.

Landscaping Uses

• Shade Tree: Quick growth and wide canopy make it ideal for creating shaded spaces in large yards, parks, and streets.
• Windbreak: Its dense foliage and size can serve as a natural barrier in open spaces.
• Large Spaces: Best suited for larger areas due to its mature size and aggressive root system.

Important Considerations

• Aggressive Roots: Plant away from structures, pavements, and underground utilities to avoid root interference.
• Space Planning: Ensure ample space for the tree’s mature size to prevent issues with surrounding landscape features.

Summary

The Sissoo Tree is a top choice for those seeking a fast-growing, low-maintenance tree for shade and beauty in Arizona’s desert. Its rapid growth, drought resistance, and adaptability make it a smart, sustainable option for homeowners and landscapers looking to add greenery and shade to warm climates.

Three Timbers Installation Guide (Feel Free to Follow): Sissoo Tree

Planting Guide:

• Location: Full sun to partial shade (at least 4-6 hours of direct sunlight for optimal growth)
• Soil: Well-drained, loamy or sandy soil (slightly acidic to neutral soil preferred)
• Spacing: Space trees 15-20 feet apart to allow for optimal growth and air circulation
• Planting Depth: Plant at the same depth as the root ball, ensuring the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil surface
• Support: Sissoo Tree may need light staking during early growth but becomes self-supporting as it matures into a large shade tree

Watering Guide:

Watering After Planting:

• Initial Watering: Water thoroughly immediately after planting to saturate the root ball and surrounding soil
• Frequency: Water every 5-6 days for the first 2-3 weeks to help establish the root system
• Watering Amount: Provide 3-4 inches of water per session for deep watering

When is the Plant Established?

• Timeframe: Sissoo Tree is considered established after 6-8 months when the roots have spread into the surrounding soil

Watering Once Established:

• Summer: Water every 10-14 days during the hotter months. If temperatures exceed 100°F, increase watering to every 7-10 days. Provide 4-5 inches of water per session.
• Winter: Water every 4-6 weeks during the cooler months, depending on rainfall.

Drip Irrigation Setup:

• Placement of Emitters: Place the drip emitters 18-24 inches away from the base of the tree for deep watering of the root zone
• Flow Rate: Use emitters with a flow rate of 2-4 gallons per hour
• Number of Emitters: 2-3 emitters per tree for even watering distribution
• Adjusting Frequency: In summer, increase watering frequency to every 7-10 days. In winter, reduce to every 4-6 weeks