Senegalia occidentalis, commonly known as Sonoran Cat Claw, is a deciduous shrub or small tree native to the arid and semi-arid regions of the Sonoran Desert in the Southwestern United States and Northeast Mexico. It typically reaches a height of 16-20 feet (5-6 meters) and a width of 11-15 feet (3.4-4.6 meters). The plant is characterized by its claw-like thorns and a spreading, irregular form that can create dense thickets. It produces clusters of fragrant, cream-colored flowers during the spring, summer, and fall, which are moderately showy and attract pollinators.

Sonoran Cat Claw is valued for its drought tolerance and ability to thrive in harsh conditions, making it suitable for xeriscaping and naturalistic plantings in arid landscapes. It is also used for erosion control and as a barrier plant due to its thorny branches. In cultivation, it requires full sun exposure and can tolerate a range of soil types, provided they have good drainage. While it can survive with low water once established, moderate watering will support more lush growth. Gardeners should be cautious when planting near pedestrian areas due to its sharp thorns.CC BY-SA 4.0