Mesquite

Mesquite, or screw bean, tough shrub or tree (genus Prosopis) that grows in the stony deserts of the southwestern United States and similar regions. The roots may penetrate as much as 70 ft (21 m) into the ground. It bears spines and small olive-colored leaflets. A member of the pea family, mesquite has seeds that develop into edible pods that can be used to make bread and a fermented beverage. The pods, wood, and gum from the stem have commercial value as food, fuel, and lumber.