Algarroba Plant Care

Algarroba (Prosopis humilis) belongs to the Fabaceae family within the Prosopis genus. Algarroba is native to Argentina. Algarroba is also known as Mesquite.

Algarroba displays a large spreading tree growth habit, reaching up to 30 ft tall with a spread of approximately 40 ft. Algarroba produces small yellow-green flowers in elongated clusters.

Leaf size: approximately 6 inches.

Water a young or newly planted Algarroba every 14–21 days, soaking the whole root zone, until it is established — usually one to two growing seasons. Established trees mainly need water during long dry spells. In a container, water whenever the top few centimetres of soil are dry.

Algarroba thrives in full sun.

Prosopis humilis tolerates temperatures of 50–95°F. Algarroba prefers humidity levels of 10–60%.

Well-draining sandy soil mix with good aeration. Good drainage is essential for Algarroba to prevent waterlogging, which leads to root rot and fungal issues.

Feed Algarroba every 8 months during the growing season with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer at the rate on the label. Established trees in good soil often need little extra feeding, so let weak growth or pale foliage guide you.

Stop feeding by late summer so new growth can harden before winter.

The PlantoScan app can remind you when to water and when to fertilize each plant.

Choose a spot with full sun and well-draining sandy soil mix with good aeration. Avoid low spots where water collects after rain.

Algarroba is suited to USDA Zone 12a.

Plant container-grown or balled-and-burlapped trees in spring or early autumn, setting the root flare at soil level, and water well after planting.

Algarroba can spread to about 40 ft (12.2 m) and reach about 30 ft (9 m) tall. Space plants about 40 ft (12.2 m) apart so mature crowns don't crowd each other, and plant at least half that distance from buildings, fences and paths.

Planning a row or hedge? Try the tree spacing calculator.

Prune Algarroba while it is dormant in late winter: first remove dead, damaged and crossing branches, then thin lightly for shape.

If it flowers in spring, prune right after flowering instead so you don't remove next year's buds. Never take off more than about a quarter of the tree in one year.

Algarroba is frost-tender (hardy to USDA zone 12). In colder areas grow it in a container and move it to a bright, frost-free place before the first frost.

Algarroba can be propagated through seeds, cuttings.

See all plants toxic to cats and plants toxic to dogs.

Algarroba is susceptible to aphids, spider mites, pod gall midges. Inspect the foliage regularly, especially along leaf undersides and stems. Treat infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil to prevent spread.

Yellow leaves, brown tips or drooping? See common plant problems and how to fix them.

Algarroba grows outdoors in USDA Zone 12a. It survives winters down to planting zone 12a. Algarroba is native to Argentina. In cooler regions, grow Algarroba as a houseplant or bring it indoors before the first frost.