The New Mexican Locust (Robinia neomexicana) is a species of tree found in the mountains of Arizona, including the Santa Rita Mountains south of Tucson.
If you were to hike to Mt. Wrightson in late spring or early summer, you would be treated to the sight of lovely pinkish to purple flower clusters adorning this small deciduous tree. A rare occurrence would be to spot a white flowered tree. The flowers are delightfully fragrant. Found in association with ponderosa pines, Gambel oak and Douglas fir, this lower-story tree is also occasionally found in association with riparian areas.
Like all locust species, bean pods follow the flowers. It is interesting to note the flowers are edible, and were eaten by Native Americans. However, all other plant parts are toxic, especially the beans. One bean can be fatal to a small child.
Reference: The Nature of Madera Canyon by Douglas W. Moore, Friends of Madera, 1999; Fireflyforest.com
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