Desert Ironwood This is a medium to fairly large tree that grows only in the Sonoran Desert. It has bluish-green compound leaves and is sparsely covered with small spines. Ironwood is named after the strength of its wood; one of the heaviest in the world. The wood is notable for tis strong chatoyance. The effect can be likened to the sheen off a spool of silk. One cubic foot of ironwood can weigh up to 66 pounds. The wood is used for wood carving by skilled Seri Indians and Mexicans of Sonora, Mexico. A very beautiful and rare artist medium.