The Retama (Parkinsonia aculeata), also called Jerusalem Thorn, is a graceful native tree with airy, feathery foliage and clouds of bright yellow flowers in spring and summer. Extremely drought-tolerant and adapted to South Texas heat, it’s perfect for xeriscape and naturalistic landscapes. Alfaro Tree Sales grows Retamas at our 40-acre Atascosa nursery.
Retamas produce abundant clusters of bright yellow flowers from April through September, creating a stunning display. The flowers attract butterflies and native pollinators. Its open, feathery canopy provides filtered light shade.
Two showy native flowering trees for SA xeriscapes.
Expected height after planting a 2” caliper tree (8–12 ft at install).
Minimal once established. Water deeply every 2–3 weeks in the first season. After that, rainfall is generally sufficient.
Thrives in poor, dry soils — even caliche. Avoid rich, heavy soils. No fertilizer needed.
Remove lower branches for clearance and any dead wood. Can be pruned to a single trunk or left as a multi-stem. Best done in winter.
March through May or October through November. Avoid hard-freeze exposure for newly planted trees.
Choose your tree at our nursery or by phone. We deliver it to your property.
Machine-dug hole, native soil backfill, deep watering, and mulch ring installed.
Written care instructions plus a 30-day establishment check from our crew.
Retamas grow 2–3 feet per year in San Antonio, reaching full size of 20–30 feet within 8–10 years.
Extremely — they’re one of the most drought-tolerant native trees available. They thrive with minimal irrigation once established.
Yes, they have small thorns. Be aware of this when planting near walkways. Thorns become less prominent as the tree matures.
They provide filtered, dappled shade rather than dense shade. Their airy canopy is perfect for understory plants that need some light.
March through May or fall. Our team plants year-round with proper care.
We offer Retamas in various sizes. Field-grown at our nursery in Atascosa. Call (210) 202-4284.
Yes. Professional delivery and planting across the SA metro. Request a free quote.
They drop small leaflets and seed pods, but their fine texture makes cleanup relatively easy. The flowers can create temporary litter during peak bloom.
