[3] It is native to the dry Neotropics from Mexico to Argentina.

[2] A small tree reaching 6 to 9 m (20 to 30 ft), it is usually a bit wider than it is tall.

[3] Parkinsonia praecox is valued as a xeriscaping ornamental for its yellow wands of early-blooming flowers, its chartreuse-to-green bark, and its graceful branching habit.

[3][4] A drought-adapted species, it drops its leaves in the dry season.

[3][4] Overwatering will cause it to grow rapidly with weak wood, and then it is likely to collapse.