Rio Grande Village Nature Trail Stop #10

Seed pods of the mesquite tree

NPS Photo

Quick Facts

Location:

Rio Grande Village Nature Trail

Amenities

2 listed

Historical/Interpretive Information/Exhibits, Scenic View/Photo Spot

At this slight bend in the trail you are surrounded by mesquite trees. Mesquites are desert survivors. Their roots may extend 150 feet into the soil to reach water. Their seeds, encased in a long pod, are sweet and high-protein, making them excellent feed for wildlife and livestock. Mesquite pods can be ground into flour, or soaked and boiled down to make jelly for human use. Mature mesquite pods are maroon in color and signify the availability of a sweet treat. The sticky mesquite sap was used as a glue and in making dyes.