Family: Fabaceae
Scientific name: Prosopis pubescens
Common name: Screwbean Mesquite
Origin: Southwestern parts of the United States
The Screwbean Mesquite grows as a shrub along streams and in valleys of the desserts of the southwestern United States. The yellow flowers grow in clusters and are followed by remarkable coiled pods. This would be an evolutionary adaptation in order to prevent animals like beetles from eating the seeds. The pods are among others eaten by birds and coyotes, in order for the seeds to be dispersed. The pods are high in proteins, minerals and fibers, and have a sweet caramel-like taste. The pods can also be dried and processed into flour, and after the seeds are removed the flour can be added to coffee, chocolate-milk or smoothies. The plant is hardy, prefers a well drained soil and a sunny spot.
Sowing description: Shortly pour some hot water on the seeds, after which they need to be soaked in lukewarm water for 24 hours. Then sow the seeds in sowing mix, and let them germinate at a temperature of 25-30 degC.
Sowing time: January – july
Difficulty: Intermediate
Minimum temperature: -18 degrees Celsius
