Gregg Catclaw Acacia
Senegalia greggii
Last reviewed: June 2026
Senegalia greggii (Gregg Catclaw Acacia) is a drought-tolerant native tree found in Arizona, California, Nevada, New Mexico, and Texas that blooms from March through November with fragrant yellow flower clusters.
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Gregg Catclaw Acacia as toxic to livestock.
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
180"–240" H × 60"–72" W
Bloom
Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov
Native to
AZ, CA, NM, NV and 1 more states
Pollinators
bees, nectar insects
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Gregg Catclaw Acacia is a drought-tolerant native tree that grows 15-20 feet tall with a narrow, upright form. It produces fragrant yellow flower clusters from spring through fall and has small compound leaves that drop in winter. The name comes from its curved thorns that can catch on clothing or skin.
Growing Gregg Catclaw Acacia
Grow Gregg Catclaw Acacia in full sun and low water. Mature plants reach 180 to 240 inches tall and spread 60 to 72 inches wide. Expect moderate maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Gregg Catclaw Acacia is an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement. Maintenance level: moderate. Tidiness: 2 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, mid zone.
- Trees often require HOA/ARC approval even when allowed.
- Verify setbacks from sidewalks, driveways, utilities, and structures.
- Confirm mature height/canopy limits and sightline rules for corners.
Wildlife value
The extended blooming period provides nectar for bees and other pollinators from spring through fall. Birds often nest in the thorny branches, which offer excellent protection from predators.
Common questions
- When does Gregg Catclaw Acacia bloom?
- Senegalia greggii blooms for an exceptionally long period, from March through November, producing fragrant yellow flower spikes that attract bees and other nectar-feeding insects.
- Where is Gregg Catclaw Acacia native?
- This species is native to the southwestern United States, including Arizona, California, Nevada, New Mexico, and Texas, as well as northwestern Mexico.
- What pollinators visit Gregg Catclaw Acacia?
- The fragrant flower clusters attract bees and various nectar-feeding insects, making it valuable for pollinator habitat in desert and arid landscapes.
- How much water does Gregg Catclaw Acacia need?
- This drought-tolerant native requires minimal water once established and thrives in arid conditions with low rainfall, making it excellent for xeriscaping.
- Is Gregg Catclaw Acacia toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Gregg Catclaw Acacia as toxic to livestock.
- Is Gregg Catclaw Acacia HOA-friendly?
- Gregg Catclaw Acacia is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with moderate maintenance.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Does Gregg Catclaw Acacia fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.