Martin Byhower 6/30/26 Martin Byhower 6/30/26

Mexican Plum

Mexican Plum (Prunus mexicana)

Mexican Plum is a beautiful native small tree that announces the arrival of spring with a spectacular display of fragrant white blossoms before its leaves emerge. The flowers provide an early source of nectar and pollen for bees and other pollinators, while the summer fruit is enjoyed by songbirds and other wildlife. Its attractive bark, glossy green foliage, and vibrant yellow fall color add year-round interest to the landscape. Adaptable and relatively drought tolerant once established, Mexican Plum thrives in full sun to part shade and is well suited to the limestone soils of Central Texas. Its ornamental beauty, wildlife benefits, and seasonal interest make it an excellent choice for residential landscapes and native gardens.

Martin Byhower 6/30/26 Martin Byhower 6/30/26

Desert Willow

Desert Willow (Chilopsis linearis)

Desert Willow is one of the most beautiful and dependable small native trees for Central Texas landscapes. Despite its name, it is not a true willow but is prized for its graceful, willow-like foliage and abundant trumpet-shaped flowers that bloom from late spring through summer. The blossoms, which range from lavender-pink to deep purple with yellow and white markings, are highly attractive to hummingbirds, bees, and butterflies. Exceptionally heat and drought tolerant once established, Desert Willow thrives in full sun and well-drained soils, making it an outstanding choice for water-wise landscapes. Its long flowering season, airy form, and outstanding wildlife value make it a favorite for both residential gardens and naturalized settings.

Martin Byhower 6/30/26 Martin Byhower 6/30/26

Flameleaf Sumac

Flameleaf Sumac (Rhus lanceolata) is one of the finest native small trees for adding brilliant fall color to Central Texas landscapes. Its glossy green leaves transform into spectacular shades of orange, red, and scarlet each autumn, creating a striking display rarely matched by other native species. Clusters of creamy white flowers in spring are followed by red berries on female plants that provide food for many species of songbirds. Highly drought tolerant once established, Flameleaf Sumac thrives in full sun and adapts well to the rocky, limestone soils common throughout the Hill Country. Its exceptional seasonal color, wildlife value, and low maintenance make it an outstanding choice for naturalized landscapes, pollinator gardens, and residential yards.

Martin Byhower 6/30/26 Martin Byhower 6/30/26

Eve’s Necklace

Eve’s Necklace is a small, graceful Texas native tree prized for its unique seed pods that resemble a string of dark beads. In spring, it produces clusters of fragrant, creamy white flowers that attract bees and other pollinators, followed by the distinctive pods that persist well into winter. Its glossy foliage provides light shade, and its moderate size makes it an excellent choice for smaller landscapes. Drought tolerant once established, Eve’s Necklace grows best in full sun to part shade and is well adapted to the limestone soils common throughout Central Texas. It adds year-round interest while supporting native wildlife and pollinators.