Baja California Sur, in addition to having seas and deserts, is also home to unique flora that has managed to survive the region’s desert conditions.
These species are so outstanding that La Paz received international recognition as the “World Tree City” highlighting its commitment to reforestation and environmental stewardship.
In the middle of the peninsula, several trees native to the region stand out. They are not only part of the Southern California landscape but also deserve conservation.
One of the most emblematic trees of Baja California Sur is the Palo Blanco. Scientifically known as Lysiloma candida, it has a light-colored bark, grows from 3 to 10 meters tall and is the largest native tree in Baja California Sur.
This tree is commonly found among the streams or in the desert area of the state and is used by ranchers in the region for tanning hides, using its bark, or “cascalote”.
One of its characteristics is its whitish trunk, and its leaves can vary in shape and color. Some of these species can reach between 5 and 18 meters in height, while others can also be smaller shrubs. Another of its characteristics is that it survives the desert.
The Palo Blanco is very strong and resistant. Sometimes, it grows in areas with rocky soil, while other times it can grow near streams. Its resilience is due to its ability to adapt to the climatic and environmental conditions of the region. Poor or different types of soils do not impede this tree’s ability to survive the most arid climates.
This tree usually survives the most extreme temperatures so over time, it has proven capable of adapting to urban areas with high levels of pollution.
Another emblematic tree in Baja is the Torote. Known scientifically as Bursera microphylla, it is particularly recognized for its twisted trunk and reddish color.
Torote, the Spanish word for the tree, is a combination of toro, which means bull, and the suffix -ote, which means large.
The Torote tree is a succulent plant, meaning it stores water in its swollen trunk and branches, which gives it its characteristic gnarled appearance.
Native peoples used the plant for medicinal purposes, treating conditions like headaches, cuts, sores, and venereal disease.
The sap was also used as a good luck charm, and the wood was used for basket weaving. The tree is also valued as a landscape plant in hotels, resorts, and golf courses. They are highly valued, and you cannot go to the hill to take one home because it is a federal crime to remove them.
This tree can grow as a shrub or, conversely, reach up to 8 meters in height. Due to the climate of Baja California Sur, this tree grows abundantly.
The Palo de arco (bow tree) is more commonly seen in rural areas. Nativeto the region, it has characteristic yellow flowers. This tree, like many others, also has medicinal uses for ailments such as anemia, colitis, respiratory infections, and influenza.
Due to its great flexibility and strength, it was once used for bow making. It is also widely used to create fences, hammock frames, beams, struts, sleepers, tool handles, fence posts, and corral parts.
Another very important tree for the environment is the Mesquite. This one is vital for soil conservation and as a food source for local fauna.Unfortunately, some of these trees face risks due to urban expansion and megaprojects seeking to establish themselves in illegal sites. In fact, illegal logging of a mesquite tree was detected at the entrance to the Mogote Dunes located near the city of La Paz
Although not all these trees are officially in danger of extinction, some species, such as the Torote and Palo Blanco, have seen their growth decline in certain areas. Some measures include promoting reforestation with native plants. Likewise, the felling of the region’s emblematic trees must be avoided.
Promoting environmental education in communities and schools would also contribute to conserving these species. Caring for these trees is crucial for Baja California Sur.