Prosopis (Neltuma) chilensis, also known as Chilean Mesquite, is a fascinating species of the legume family, found mainly in central Chile, southern Peru, Bolivia, and Andean Argentina. It is a medium-sized deciduous tree, growing up to a height of 35 ft, with a stout and gnarled trunk that can reach a diameter of 3 ftr. Its bark is thick, pale brown, and cracked. The tree is drought-resistant, salt and sand tolerant, and fixes nitrogen. Its highly developed root system makes it challenging to remove from land for cultivation. Its wood is dense, difficult to work with, and used for doors, floors, and other outdoor purposes. Its leaves are used as fodder for livestock, while its pods and seeds are of high nutritional value and used to make animal feed. The tree's fruits have been used as a food source for centuries by native peoples, for making flour, drinks, and even alcoholic beverages. Prosopis chilensis is also known for providing shade and for its medicinal properties.
