Though considered to be a noxious weed in states outside its natural range,[4] it plays a vital role in the ecology of the Sonoran Desert.

It grows larger in areas with ample water, smaller in open, dry grasslands.

The taproot sinks deep into the earth, far deeper than the height of the tree, taking advantage of water sources inaccessible to most plants.

[5] The mesquite is deciduous, losing its leaves in winter, and leafs out again in the spring when all danger of frost is past.

Because of its deep root system, it keeps its leaves in the dry months of summer in all but the most severe drought years.

The flowers are yellow and form in the spring (after the leaves) in dense cylindrical clusters (catkins) roughly 4 in (10 cm) long.

[5] Consequently, velvet mesquite is considered an invasive species or noxious weed in several states.

Agriculture, firewood cutting, housing developments, and the lowering of the water table have all contributed to the loss of native mesquite stands.

Pods are considered a slow-release food due to galactomannin gums which have been found to lower glycemic responses.