Geoffroea decorticans

It is found in a number of semi-arid regions of Bolivia, Brazil, Patagonia and Argentina. Leaves are cold and drought deciduous. It tends to occur in areas with high water tables or near permanent sources of water. Small, papery, pale yellow flowers are produced in spring, either singly or in clusters.

The bark peals in attractive irregular patterns.

Geoffroea is unique among legumes in that it produces fleshy, oval pods that hold a single seed. Fruit are initially green but turn orange brown as they mature. Seeds and fruits constitute valuable foodstuff for humans and animals in many semiarid regions of South America.

Similar plants:

• Andira inermis, Geoffroea inermis (Cabbage Tree)