The trunk tends not to grow upright, and the bark is smooth.
The seeds, which dry to a deep red color, have been used to make beads for jewelry.
It isdeer resistantand tolerant of difficult growing conditions such as clay soil and drought.
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It’s also loved bypollinatorswho are drawn to its rich fragrance and colorful blossoms.
Texas Mountain Laurel Care
Texas mountain laurel is fairly low maintenance once established.
It makes a nice patio tree and can also beplanted as a hedge.
However, it is slow-growing and does take some time to reach mature size.
If planted in a semi-shade area, it prefers afternoon sun.
Adding a bit of calcium to the soil when planting can help the plant get established.
Overwatering can cause too-rapid growth which may cause branch formation to be weak.
Temperature and Humidity
This plant can withstand hot summers and plenty of bright sunlight.
It’s drought-tolerant but also appreciates adequate rainfall.
This silver variation is said to be slightly more resistant to caterpillar damage.
There are also white flowering cultivars available.
Check with your nursery supplier to see what cultivars may be available in your region.
However, those with some time might want to try propagating from seed.
Soak pods in water if they’re difficult to open.
They will take quite a while to germinate.
Water daily for two months, then once a week for a year until seedlings appear.
Transplant seedlings from containers when they’re 3-4 inches tall.
This is a slow-growing shrub and will grow at the rate of roughly two feet per year.
This shrub does need some sun to bloom, but it will adapt to a partial shade location.
All portions of this plant are toxic to humans and animals.
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