Mesquite this. Mesquite that. Have you ever wondered what the real story is behind one of BBQ’s favorite sources of smoke? If you are curious about weather to use mesquite lump charcoal or plain old charcoal briquettes when grilling, this article might help you discern their differences:
Sunset: Isn’t it about time to take the mystery out of mesquite?

If you just want to know what makes this deciduous shrub so terrific, this link just might do the trick:
Desert USA: Mesquite

If you are looking for some smoking wood in the Los Angeles area check out this post:
California Charcoal Firewood