Neltuma pallida is a drought-tolerant tree in the bean family, native to Peru, with deep roots that allow it to access water sources far below the surface. That same persistence that makes it a survivor in arid landscapes has made it a serious problem as an invasive species in the American Southwest and elsewhere, where it colonizes rangeland aggressively and is difficult to eradicate once established.

Its federal listing as a noxious weed in the United States reflects the scale of that problem, and it is not recommended for planting in any garden context. For gardeners seeking drought-tolerant trees with a similar rugged character, there are better-behaved native alternatives that provide ecological value without the risk of spread.