It forms dense thickets which shade out more useful forage plants, interfere with stock mustering and block access to watering places. When cattle eat large amounts of leaf and pods digestive problems frequently occur. Mesquite has sharp spines which injure animals and puncture vehicle tyres. Description Mesquite is found either as a densely branched shrub about one metre high or as a tree which can reach 15 metres or more in height. The leaves are dark green and divided into numerous small fern-like leaflets.
Most varieties have minute hairs on both surfaces.
The twigs are smoothbarked and armed with straight spines which vary in size. They are usually found in pairs rising from the leaf base. The wood is hard and reddish brown with an outside layer of yellow sapwood. In the USA it is highly valued as a decorative timber and as a fuel for barbecues. The flowers are small and greenish-yellow.