Jerusalem Thorn

Jerusalem thorn is a small, open-crowned tree with fine foliage, pendulous green branches and bright yellow spring flowers. Its airy shape suits hot, dry sites where a thorny, spreading canopy can be given room and kept clear of foot traffic. ## Form and flowering This deciduous, often multi-trunked tree has a light, irregular crown and branches that may remain green while young. Clusters of fragrant yellow flowers with red centers appear in spring, followed by narrow seed pods. The University of Florida IFAS profile reports a typical height and spread of about 15–25 feet, full sun, and USDA zones 8B–11. The species is in the pea family, Fabaceae. [UF/IFAS Extension](https://ask.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/ST431) ## Siting Give it full sun and well-drained soil. It tolerates heat, drought, alkaline soil and coastal salt exposure, but not persistently wet ground. The open canopy and quick growth can work in a large parking island or as a specimen; allow clearance for the sharp spines on its branches. UF/IFAS currently lists it as invasive and not recommended in Florida, so check local guidance before planting in regions where it escapes cultivation. ## Maintenance Prune early to establish strong structure and remove branches that obstruct nearby paths. Avoid injuring the thin bark, and keep the root zone from remaining soggy. Its thorns make gloves and careful handling essential; routine pruning is best done where the cut branches can be safely collected.