Mesquite is one of the iconic trees of the semi-arid and arid lands of Texas and the southwest. For centuries its nutritious seed pods have provided food for man and animals. It is loved by many for many reasons. It's tough wood is used to make beautiful furniture and other wooden pieces. The aromatic smoke produced by burning its wood is an often used part of Southwest barbeque. Mesquite is also used as a tough and carefree ornamental plant in wildscapes and native plant gardens.

One of the plants most amazing characteristics is its often twisting and contorted growth form. Mesquite branches can grow straight up straight down and to all sides. Even when pushed over by storms, erosion or machinery mesquites will continue to grow if not completely uprooted. They stems grow along the ground and new vertical branches develop.

For many years I have admired the wonderful growth forms of mesquites and have wanted to do a series of images showing different perspectives and artistic treatments of this amazing tree.

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