The genus Cercidium, commonly known as Palo Verde, is a group of trees and shrubs native to North and South America. These plants are known for their green bark and showy, yellow flowers. While the scientific name for this genus is Cercidium, there are several common names and synonyms used to refer to these plants. One synonym for Cercidium is Parkinsonia, named after the English botanist John Parkinson. Other common names for Cercidium include Yellow Palo Verde, Mexican Palo Verde, and Blue Palo Verde. These trees and shrubs are an important part of the natural habitats in which they grow, providing food and shelter for a variety of animals and insects.