Retama
Parkinsonia aculeata
Last reviewed: July 2026
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
180"–300" H × 180"–300" W
Bloom
Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
AZ, TX
Pollinators
bees, butterflies
Browse plants for this ecoregion
A fast-growing, airy tree with smooth yellow-green bark, drooping thorny branches, and tiny leaflets that give it a delicate, feathery silhouette. Clusters of fragrant yellow flowers bloom over an extended warm season, followed by narrow seed pods. Extremely heat and drought tolerant, useful as a light-canopy shade or accent tree.
In an HOA neighborhood
Retama is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: moderate. Tidiness: 2 out of 5.
Works well in: street edge, mid zone, backyard only.
- thorny branches can pose a hazard near walkways and play areas
- considerable leaf and seed pod litter
Wildlife value
Long-blooming flowers are a major nectar source for bees and butterflies through the warm months.
Common questions
- How much sun does Retama need?
- Retama grows best in full sun conditions.
- When does Retama bloom?
- Retama blooms in April, May, June, July, and August.
- Where is Retama native?
- Retama (Parkinsonia aculeata) is native to AZ, TX, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- What pollinators does Retama attract?
- Retama draws bees and butterflies.
- Is Retama HOA-friendly?
- Retama 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 Retama fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.