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TEXAS AGRICULTURAL EXPERIMENT STATION

A. B. CONNER, DIRECTOR
COLLEGE STATION, BRAZOS COUNTY, TEXAS

BULLETIN NO. 551 AUGUST, 1937

DIVISION OF APICULTYRE

VALUABLE PLANTS
NATIVE TO TEXAS

 

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AGRICULTURAL AND MECHANICAL COLLEGE OF TEXAS
T. 0. WALTON, President

 

    

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FIGURE 1:

1. Pine Forest Region
2. - Gulf Coast Prairie
3. Brush Country

 

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FLORAL AREAS OF TEXAS

4. Blackland Prairie
4a. Western Hardwood Forest
4b. Eastern Hardwood Forest

Edwards Plateau
Trans-Pecos Region
High Plains

Low Plains

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BULLETIN NO. 551 AUGUST, 1937

VALUABLE PLANTS NATIVE TO TEXAS
by
H. B. Parks, Chief, Division of Apiculture*

This Bulletin has been prepared from records made by the writer dur-
ing the past fourteen years at the Apicultural Research Laboratory
near San Antonio together with those made from December 1917 to
July 1922 at various points in Texas.

The total number of plants ondwhich records have been taken is
more than three thousand. Included in this list are those plants which
apparently have abundant possibilities for service in the various proj-
ects which are now being carried on for the use of native plants as
ornamentals, as a means of erosion control, and for the various other
services to which plants may be utilized. A large number of plants
native to Texas are not found in this list due to the fact that the value
of some of them is well known, others are available at nurseries, or the
seed can be had from merchants. To include all those that have possi-
bilities would be to describe the majority of more than ﬁve thousand
species that occur in Texas. But the scope of this paper has been
narrower; only those plants that have been actually observed or studied
experimentally are included. '

‘This intensive study has been carried on in connection with the work
of this Laboratory as the rapid increase of agriculture has destroyed
the native bee pasturage to an alarming extent, to show that if the
bee industry in the State of Texas is to continue proﬁtable the pasturage
which has now been destroyed must be replaced. To make popular the
growing of honey plants by man offered the quickest and best solution
to this problem; therefore much work has been done in hunting out and
testing those plants thought to be valuable to man in any way and at
the same time supplying food to the bees. Some of the ﬁndings of
this Laboratory have been made public from time to time through the
local press and bee-keeping journals, and as a result an ever-growing
number of requests for such information comes to this oﬁice. Because
the Federal agencies have been working to preserve and increase the
natural assets of farms, there has come a ﬂood of requests for informa-
tion as to what plants are valuable to aid in the natural increase of farm
value.

The technical names of plants used in this Bulletin are identical
with those used in Bulletin 550, Catalogue of the Flora of Texas. The
common names so far as possible are the same as those used in Standard-
ized Plant Names. The Arabic numbers refer to the geographical
divisions of the state in the map which is the frontispiece to this study.

Distribution locations given, such as “south of San Antonio,” or “south
and east of Austin,” are intended to show that the plant is found in

*In charge of Apicultural Research Laboratory, located near San Antonio.

s215§

4 BULLETIN NO. 551, TEXAS AGRICULTURAL EXPERIMENT STATION

that section of Texas lying south of a line crossing the state from/
east to West through the city of San Antonio, or occurs in that part
of the state which lies south of a line passing east and west and east
of a line passing north and south through the_city of Austin. Such
expression as “the Gulf Coast” or “high plains” refer- to the names given
to the plant areas 0n the map. The word “commercial” indicates that
the living plant or its seed may be procured through commercial agen-
cies. The expression “in the full sun” indicates that the plant needs
no shade whatever. The expression “in the wild” indicates that the-
plant may be found growing as a native and should be procuredfrom
such a location.

Whenever possible plants should be secured from ﬂoriculturists and
nurserymen. In Texas there is a large number of small nurseries
which can supply the local plants from the section where they \are
located. There is also a number of nurserymen who make a specialty
of growing native species and who are sufficiently well informed that
if a certain plant native to their sections is needed they will be able to
supply the plant in good condition. In the United States and in Europe
are many ﬁrms who grow and have on hand for sale the seed of a
large number of the rare plants, and it is much easier to obtain some
of the more beautiful and rare specimens from such companies than
by attempting to obtain them from their natural habitat. The Division
of Apiculture has neither plants nor seed for distribution. If informa-
tion is needed as to where native plants can be secured, however, this
information will be supplied whenever it is at hand. ,

POLYPODIACEAE

Adiantum Oapillusdueneris L. Venus Hair Fern. A delicate fern with
shiny black stems, light green leaﬂets; native to sections 7A, 4A, 4,
4B, 1, 2, 5, and will grow in the remainder of the ﬂoral areas of Texas
wherever water is plentiful. Evergreen and will endure low tempera-
tures. Commercial.

Asplenium Resurrection Fern. There are three species of these ferns
which occur in the state. They are known by the dark colored stems
and light green leaﬂets. These ferns have the property of being able
to resist drought for longperiods of time and then take advantage of
light rainfall for their growth. All species of native ferns should be
used in landscape work. Many of the ferns, though small and not invit-
ing when found, are very beautiful if given shade and water, and will out-
live cultivated varieties.

Poly/podium virginvhcmum L. The Licorice Fern of southeastern United
States. This peculiar fern which grows commonly on the bark of leaning
trees is found in sections 4A, 4, 4B, 1 and to some extent in 3. The ferns
are generally found on post oak trees. During dry periods they appear
as shriveled brown leaves. Twenty minutes of rainfall transforms
these into beautiful ferns with attractive green leaves. The roots of
the ferns live on the decaying bark of the trees. This fern can be trans-

VALUABLE PLANTS NATIVE TO TEXAS 5

planted easily by taking a piece of the bark containing the living plants
and placing it on another tree. It is not only a curiosity but a thing of
beauty. For demonstrating the recovery power of desert plants this is
one of the best organisms.

OSMUNDAOEAE

Osmunda c-innamomea L. Cinnamon Fern. Too well known to need
description; native to the eastern part of Texas. Will grow anywhere
in the state to a height of from four to ﬁve feet when water is furnished.
Can be purchased from any dealer.

Osmunda regalis L. var. spectabilis (Willd.) A. Gray. Regal Fern.
This peculiar fern, which more nearly represents the ferns of the Coal
Period than any other of those native to Texas, is found in isolated
bogs and swamps in sections 4A, 4, 4B, 1, 2, and 5. It is easily trans-
planted and will grow wherever shade and water are furnished. Com-
mercial.

OPHIOGLOSSAGEAE

Ophioglossum Engelmannii Prantl. Adder’s Tongue Fern. This pecu-
liar little fern is a great addition to any fernery or rock garden. It
must have shade, moisture, and deep leaf mold. When transplanted it
will maintain itself for years and multiply. Found in woodlands in
sections 4A, 4, 4B, 1, 2, 3, and 5 and can be raised with care in any
portion of the state where the proper surroundings are provided.

MARSILEACEAE

Marsilea uncinata A. Br. The Four-Leafed Clover Fern. Common
plant throughout Texas. Though there ‘are four species which are con-
fused in the popular mind, the plant is well known. It grows in any
moist location and is very persistent. Representatives of the genus
have been collected in all sections of the state; however, it is more
common in sandy soils where there is a limited amount of shade. It can
be transplanted. with great success and makes a wonderful addition to
any garden._ It should be located near a hydrant or other constant
source of water.

EQUISETAOEAE

Equisetum hyiemale L. The Scouring Rush. Native of much of Texas.
Little known as it is restricted to shady, damp locations. Because of
its peculiar manner of growth and its persistency of life, it makes a
handsome addition to the rock or water garden. It should be used
in park and roadside plantings where water-fronts are available. It
makes a good plant to aid in the preservation of water-soaked banks.

/

6 BULLETIN NO. 551, TEXAS AGRICULTURAL EXPERIMENT STATION
SELAGINELLACEAE

Selagmella lepidophylla (Hook. & Grev.) Spreng. Resurrection Plant.
This is the best known member of this group. Its properties of being
able to remain in a desiccated form for many months makes it possible
for this plant to exist in the most arid regions of Texas. The fact that
with the application of moisture the plant will return to its normal
fern-like condition makes it an interesting curiosity to everyone who
loves plants. One of the best uses to which it can be placed is to cover
unsightly foundations to buildings. It will attach itself to the mortar
between the rock and will remain as a gray-green cover throughout the
dry weather. In damp weather the entire wall will be covered with
beautiful green leaves. Can be purchased from any curio store or pro-
cured in many places in Trans-Pecos Texas.

Seloginella Riddellii Van Eseltine. Ground Pine. This peculiar kin
of the ferns is found in every section of the state. It is commonly
classed by gardeners as a moss. It is a perennial, moss-like plant with
numerous evergreen branches ranging from two to three inches in
height. It can be found in almost any sandy location but is native to
all parts of the state. It is green during damp periods of the year
especially in mid-winter. It makes an excellent plant for a rock garden
or to cover the rough rock foundations of buildings.

PINACEAE

Oupressus arizonica Greene var. bonito, Lemmon. Arizona Cypress.
This well-known evergreen is a native of the mountains of the south
Trans-Pecos area. It and its various varieties have long been in culti-
vation. It will thrive in any portion of the state with the exception of
the Rio Grande Plains. It can be purchased from any dealer.

Juniperus lucayana Britt. Gulf Coast Cedar. The native Juniper of
the Gulf Coast and central Texas. It is grown extensively and is recom-
mended for sections 4A, 4, 4B, 1, and 2. Commercial.

Juniperus Pimchoti Sudw. Mountain Cedar. The small mountain
cedar of the Edwards Plateau is a very satisfactory evergreen for speci-
men plants, backgrounds, and hedges. This species is recommended
for 7, 7A, 4A, and 5. Commercial.

Juniperus virginwlana L. Virginia Red Cedar. This species of cedar
has long been a favorite with nurserymen. It will thrive in all of Texas
with the exception of the Rio Grande Plains, the Gulf Coast, and Trans-
Pecos. Commercial. _ '

 
  

Juniperus paohyphloea Torr. Rough barked or Alli_ tor Juniper.
Native to Trans-Pecos Texas. While‘this Juniper has n been widely
cultivated, there is no doubt that it will prove very satisfactory i_n
sections 7, 7A, 4A, and 5. Commercial.

VALUABLE PLANTS NATIVE TO TEXAS 7

Pinus cembrirides Zucc. var. edulis (Engelm.) Vos. Pinyon Pine.
Native of Trans-Pecos Texas and the Edwards Plateau area. Will give
good service also in 7, 7A, 4A, 4, and the parts of 3 near the southern
border of 5. Commercial.

Pinus echinata Mill. Short-Leafed Pine. This well known tree is
native to parts of 1 and 4B and will thrive anywhere it is planted.
Recommended for sandy lands in 4A, 4, and 4B.

Taacodmm distichum (L.) L. C. Rich. Southern Cypress. A native
through sections 1 and 2, parts of 4, 4B, 3, and 5. The tree is an ever-
green which drops its leaves. While it is generally found growing in
Water, it will do equally well on upland in the eastern part of the state.
It will grow from seed or can be purchased from dealers.

EPHEDRACEAE

Ephedra antisyphilitica Berl ex. C. A. Meyer. Joint Fir. This peculiar shrub
is little known but makes a very interesting hedge or specimen plant. Its long
reed-like green branches and clusters of yellow stamens and red berries
in early spring make the plant worthy of cultivation. It is a native of
sections 4, 3, 5, 6, and 7.

Ephedra pedunculata Engelm. Vine Ephedra. This is- the most pecu-
liar vine shrub in the state of Texas. It is a native of the Edwards
Plateau and adjacent parts of the Rio Grande Plains. It grows as a
vine to a height of from ten to twenty feet, at which point it produces
a dense cluster of long green branches which hang downward giving
a very odd appearance to the plant. It blooms in mid-summer and
ripens its red fruits from September to November. Several other species
of Ephedra are native to sections 7, 7A, 4A, 4, 3, 5, and 6. All are
worthy of cultivation.

TYPHAGEAE

Typha angustifolia L. The common narrow-leafed cat-tail of the
eastern section of the state. This is a moisture-loving plant that needs
to be grown more extensively. It will thrive throughout the state but
should beplanted in moist places such as near springs, along water
courses, or where water stands throughout the year. Can be used
effectively in ornamental work around lakes.

Typha latifolitz L. The Wide-leafed Cat-tail. This is a magniﬁcent
plant that should be used wherever running or standing water is avail-
able or along roadsides where beautiﬁcation work is being done. Under
optimum conditions the plant will grow to a height of twelve feet.
It is hardy and needs little care. Native to all of Texas.

ALISMACEAE

Sagittaria falcata Pursh. Arrow Leaf. This and a number of other
species of the genus are native to much of Texas. They are water plants
and are well known by their large arrow-shaped leaves and spikes of

8 BULLETIN NO. 551, TEXAS AGRICULTURAL EXPERIMENT STATION

white ﬂowers. They are easily grown wherever water is available and
should be largely planted around artiﬁcial lakes and water courses.
They are persistent and will give long service. Commercial. A

GRAMINEAE

Andropogon provincialis Lam. Big Blue Stem. This well-known grass
is native t0 all portions of the state with the exception of the Rio Grands
Plain. It is easily transplanted, does not spread rapidly, is more easily
handled, and makes a far more lasting ornamental than the cultivated
Pampas Grasses. A single clump of this grass will be ornamental
throughout the year. A hedge made from it is not only a curiosity but
will attract a great deal of attention by the constantly changing appear-
ance of the growing plant.

Andropogon scoparius Michx. Little Blue Stem. This well-known
sedge grass makes a ﬁne ornamental especially as a background to hide
fences or the foundations of buildings. It appears as a green tufted
grass until July when it starts to put up its seeding stalks, which when
full grown assume a red color that persists through the winter. It is
recommended for trial all over Texas.

Andropogon virgimicus L. This tall-growing broom sedge with its
enlarged seed clusters makes a beautiful ornamental but will grow
only where moist or wet soil exists. It should be used as a background
around artiﬁcial lakes and where landscaping is carried out along water
courses.

Andropogon glomeratus (Walt.) B.S.P. This bunch grass also re-
quires moist or wet land to produce a presentable appearance. In
favorable localities it grows to a height of from four to ﬁve feet pro-
ducing a wealth of feathery plumes which persist through the winter.
It is worthy of a trial in soft soils where moisture is available.

Arundinaria gigantea (Walt.) Chapm. Reed Grass. This extremely
large grass is native to the water courses and swamps of southeast Texas
but is found growing in sections 4A, 4, 3, and 5, probably brought there
by man. It reaches a height of seven to ten feet and makes a splendid
plant for cover along mud ﬂats where the seasonal change of water would
leave bare places. Commercial.

Arumlo Donax L. This is the reed grass of southern Texas. It has
been used for many years to aid in erosion control and especially to
protect earthen dams from the wash of the waves. It can be grown as
a specimen plant, as a hedge for the protection of soils, or as a wind-
break. Commercial.

Phragmites communis Trin. var. Berlandieri (Fourn.) Fernald. Reed
Grass. This is the other large reed-like grass which is native to sections
4B, 1, and 2 and will grow anywhere that a plentiful supply of water is
available. Commercial.

VALUABLE PLANTS NATIVE TO TEXAS 9

Spartina pectinata Link. A coarse punch grass which will persist
and thrive on almost any soil in sections 4, 4B, 2, and 3. This plant
makes a good addition to any collection of hardy ornamentals. It can be
used to cover almost any kind of unsightly places.

CYPERAGEAE

Dichromena colorata (L.) A. S. Hitchc. White-topped Umbrella Grass.
This very grass-like plant is found in sections 4B, 1, and 2 and can be
grown in 4A, 4, and parts of 3 and 5. This sedge requires moisture but
not shade. The peculiar dark green color with the White in the center
of the blade clusters makes it very attractive. There are several culti-
vated varieties. Any of the members of this family are commonly called
Carex or Umbrella Grass. They are very showy and will grow well as
specimen plants in cultivation. Many of them have beautiful seed
clusters. They are easily transplanted and will grow with the least
amount of attention. The large species should be used in roadside
plantings.

Sctrpzls californicus (C. A. Meyer) Britton. Giant Bulrush. Exceed-
ingly-attractive plant where water is available in quantity. An ever-
green, it will grow from six to twelve feet high, and is a very attractive
member of a water garden where cat-tails and other tall-growing plants
form screens to hide unsightly backgrounds. Numerous other species
are found in every portion of the state and will grow wherever water
or damp locations are found.

PALMACEAE

Sabal minor (Jacq.) Pers. (S. globra Sarg.) This is the Palmetto
of Texas. Native to sections 1, 2, and 4B, but will grow with care in 4,
5, and 3. It requires soft rich soils and abundance of moisture. Under
cultivation it has a tendency to grow tall and more slender than in its
native habitat. This plant is quite hardy and will survive far north
of the limits of other palms. In north central Texas this species should
be planted. Commercial.

Sabal temana Becc. (S. Palmetto R. & S.) Texas Palm. Native only
to one place in Cameron County; however, because it is well known, it
has been widely cultivated and is found not only throughout the Gulf
Coast region of Texas but on the Gulf Coast regions of neighboring
states, in Florida, and in California. It grows readily from seed but
as it can be procured from any nurseryman one is advised to buy this
plant. This palm is hardy as far north as San Antonio.

ARAGEAE

Arisaema Dracontium (L.) Schott. Dragon Head. This plant, which
bears one leaf and a green ﬂower, somewhat resembles a calla lily, and
is found in sections 4, 4B, 1, 2, and to some extent in 3 and 5. It is
one of the Indian Turnips of the schoolboy. It is hardy in the districts

l0 BULLETIN NO. 551, TEXAS AGRICULTURAL EXPERIMENT STATION

named but requires shade, soft soils, and moisture. It blooms in early
spring and the ﬂowers are followed by a cluster of bright red berry-
like fruits which make it a very attractive plant. These red fruits
persist through the winter. Commercial.

Arisaema triphyllum (L.) Schott. This is the Jack-in-the-pulpit of litera-
ture. Native to sections 4, 4B, and occurs sparsely in 1, 2, 3, and 5. It
can be grown to advantage in any shady, damp location and does well
on the north side of the house Where it is hard to ﬁnd some attractive
plant which will thrive in the dense shade. Its calla-lily-like ﬂowers
which persist for some time are followed by a cluster of red fruits. Com-
mercial.

Peltandra virgkinica (L.) Kunth. A bog plant with arrow-shaped leaves

common to the bogs of East Texas. It is a welcome addition to any.

garden or planting where shade and considerable moisture are available.
It will also grow in standing water. The beautiful dark green arrow-
shaped leaves and peculiar green calla-lily-like ﬂower make it an attractive
addition to any collection of water-loving plants. This species should
be grown wherever a lily pool is maintained. Commercial.

XYRIDACEAE

Xyris ﬁmbriata Ell. Fringed Yellow-eyed Grass. This most beautiful
grass-like plant should be grown wherever a water plant is needed. The
blades grow from four to six feet high and bear in mid-summer many
fruiting stalks. These are tall and enlarged towards the heads, which
consist of cone-like clusters of bracts. When in bloom a bright yellow
petal-like fringe is displayed between the bracts, making this grass very
ornamental. The plant is native to 4B, 1, and 2 and will give good service
as an ornamental in any part of Texas where a water garden can be
maintained.

COMMELINACEAE

Gonzmelina. This genus has at least four species which are very common
to all of Texas east of San Antonio. They are commonly spoken of as Day
Flowers owing to the fact that the large bright blue petals exist only for a
part of a day. The plant very much resembles the Wandering Jew of horti-
culture in its manner of growth, and as the genus is native it will give
better service than the introduced plants.

C’. angusttfolia, Michx., 0'. crispa, 0. longioaulis, and 0'. virginica L. are
recommended. They can be procured from the wild in the sections of the
state mentioned. The members of this genus adapt themselves to Window-
boxes and if cared for will persist through the winter. '

Oommelinantila anomala (Torr.) Tharp. Widow’s Tears. This beautiful
member of this family grows tall, produces quite large ﬂowers, and makes
a very attractive addition to any rock garden and especially to the ﬂower
bed where there is heavy shade. The plant is native to sections 4A, 4, 4B,

 

 

VALUABLE PLANTS NATIVE TO TEXAS ll

and 5, and will probably give satisfaction in 7A, 1, 2, and parts of 3. Its
requirements are some shade, rich loose soil, and a fair amount of moisture.
It is quite adaptable as it has been collected from the top of the Edwards
Escarpment t0 the swamps of Eastern Gonzales county.

Tradescantia. Spiderwort. The members of this genus are commonly
known in Texas as Spider Lilies. The ﬂowers are white, through blue to
pink. They are all perennials, quite hardy, and attractive. Their leaves are
long and grass-like. Where they have stems these are succulent.

Tradescantia gigantea Rose; T. canaliculata Raf; T. humilis Rose; and
T. hirsutiﬂora Bush are the species which adapt themselves to cultivation.
These plants will grow anywhere in the state where shade, rich soil, and
moisture are available. They will well repay anyone who will transplant
them from the wild or procure them from dealers.

BROMELIACEAE

Hechtia texensis S. Wats. False Agare. This is one of the most peculiar
plants native to Texas. It is found in quantity along the Rio Grande Valley
from Hidalgo County north to the west corner of Jeff Davis County. Under
cultivation. it probably will survive anywhere south of San Antonio. The
plant itself very much resembles aloe or agave. Like the agaves it requires
several years to produce a bloom stalk. The plants resemble lechuguilla;
however, they bear only a few thorns and the plant is beautifully colored.
At the age of six or seven years the agave-like cluster of leaves sends up a
ﬂower stalk from four to ﬁve feet in height and produces numerous peculiarly
shaped ﬂowers which consist mostly of stamens. The plant belongs to the
pineapple family. It is an attractive addition to any collection of plants
where the oddities of the arid Southwest are grown.

Tillandsia Batleya Rose. Ba-iley’s Ball Moss. A very interesting plant
which will maintain itself along the Gulf Coast and in locations where
moisture and warmth are available, it is not a parasite but grows attached
to the limbs of bushes and trees through the tropical zone of the Gulf Coast.
The individual plants resemble the individuals of the ordinary ball moss
so common throughout most of East Texas. The leaves are from six to
eight inches long. Through the early summer the plants bear fruiting
spikes which are red and produce blue iris-like ﬂowers. Along the Gulf
Coast the plant can be taken from its place in the wild and located almost
anywhere desired. It makes a very attractive hanging basket as it needs
no attention save a suﬂicient amount of water to wash the dust from the
plant. In green houses or dwelling houses where moisture conditions are
maintained, this plant will grow and thrive.

Tillandsia recurvata L. Small Ball Moss. This odd plant is common to
sections 4A, 4, 4B and parts of 3 and 5, where in some places it grows in
such quantities as to be unsightly. Outside of its habitat it is an attractive
curiosity. The clusters of small plants will live for months without any
attention whatever. In the spring when moist conditions occur they will
give rise to numerous small purple ﬂowers which are quite attractive. This
plant has been shipped all over the United States and has bloomed in far-
away locations under the inﬂuence of moisture.

12 BULLETIN NO. 551, TEXAS AGRICULTURAL EXPERIMENT STATION

Tillandsia usneoides L. Spanish Moss. This grows abundantly in 4, 4B,
1 and 2 and will grow elsewhere if introduced. In some parts of these
sections it grows so abundantly as to be used as cow feed and sold on the
market. The plant makes a beautiful ornament as it furnishes gray-green
draping which will last for a long time. All that is needed to transplant the
moss is to sever the plants from the tree and place them where wanted.

PONTEDERIACEAE

Eichornia (Ptaroptus) crassipes (Mart.) Solms. Water Hyacinth. This
most beautiful plant is a pest over much of the Gulf Coast in Florida and
East Texas. As an ornamental for a small water garden it recommends
itself as it will grow easily and produce showy lilac-colored ﬂowers. Under
cutivation it will grow anywhere in Texas. All it needs is fresh water.
It is attractive as an aquarium plant as it ﬂoats by the bulbs which are

_ located on the large stalks; however, a constant supply of fresh water must

be supplied to the aquarium. Commercial.

Pontederia cordata L. Pickerel Weed. This plant is somewhat like canna,
except that it produces throughout the summer spikes of purple ﬂowers. It
is native to sections-Li, 4B, 1, and 2 but will thrive wherever water and
shade are available. Its favorite place to grow is "in the edge of a running
stream. The plant should be largely used in water gardens and where
stream banks are to be beautiﬁed. Commercial.

LILIACEAE

Allimm Gory?) M. E. Jones. Yellow-ﬂowered Onion. This onion which pro-
duces a large umbel of bright yellow ﬂowers is a native to the mountains
of Trans-Pecos Texas. Like all bulb plants it is probable that it will grow
anywhere. It will give an additional color to any bulb garden. In its
habitat it forms large beds which, when in bloom, add spots of gold to
the green hillsides. It blooms through a period of about three weeks in
early spring. The plant is little known but should become a favorite with
growers of bulb plants.

Allium Nuttallii S. Wats. The White-ﬂowered Onion. This is the com-
mon small onion which produces large umbels of white ﬂowers early in
the spring. It is native to all of Texas with the exception of the Gulf Coast
and the pine sections. As a hardy bulb plant which will maintain itself
and will not spread beyond bounds, this little native onion is of great value
in permanent plantings for roadsides, park sites, and cemeteries.

Asparagus oﬂicinaltis L. Asparagus. This peculiar liliaceous plant, which
is more often spoken of as a fern, thrives throughout Texas. In many
sections it has gone wild. Because of its fern-like foliage and large size,
it is popular as a source of green for cut-ﬂower bouquets. It makes an
excellent background or beautiful specimen plant. It is a garden vegetable.

VALUABLE PLANTS NATIVE TO TEXAS 13

Dasylirion texanum Scheele. This is the Sotol of sections 4A, 5, and 6.
It will grow and give satisfaction in a-ll of Texas west of Austin and in
some places in northeast Texas. It is a long time annual, requiring some
ten. to ﬁfteen years from seed to ﬂower and, as a rule, dying as soon as the
seed has been matured. It bears a large rosette of narrow blades from
two to four feet in length, the edges of which are bordered by teeth. At
ﬂowering time it sends up a strong shoot which may grow up to twenty feet,
depending upon the soil in which the plant grows. The stalk bears numerous
small leaf blades and is covered in the upper third by large numbers of
small lily ﬂowers which are followed by small black fruits. This plant
ﬁts into any ﬂower arrangement. It is of great value in ﬂoral struc-
ture where the foundations of large buildings are to be given a ﬂoral cover.
It is a plant that should be utilized to a greater extent than at present.
Commercial.

Erythronium albiduan Nutt. Dog-toothed Violet. This is a small but typi-
cal lily. It is found native in Texas in sections 4A, 4, 4B, and 1. After one
has secured a start by the purchase of bulbs, this plant will multiply and
take care of itself. It needs rich, soft soil, and a fair supply of moisture and
shade. It is very largely used in small gardens throughout the eastern
section of the United States. In the vicinity of Waco there is a variety
which is pink in color and is very desirable as a cultivated plant. Com-
mercial.

Hesperaloe parviﬂora (Torr.) Coulter. Red-ﬂowered Yucca. Very desir-
able for a specimen plant or to use as a background in ﬂower plantings. It
has yucca-like leaves and tall but not straight fruiting stems, which bear
small yucca-like ﬂowers that are red in color and are so persistent that
the plant appears as if in full bloom for months after the seed have ripened.
The plant isanative of secti0ns3and 5 but will grow anywhere in the state

that it receives protection, and should be in every rock or desert garden.

Commercial.

Melanthi-um virgtnicum L. Bunch Flower. This is a peculiar member of
the lily family. It is found in Texas in sections 1 and 2. When not in
bloom it appears as a bunch of coarse grass. The leaf blades are grass-like
and range from one to two feet in length. In mid-summer it puts up a
cluster of ﬂowering stalks two to three feet high which bear many cream-
colored lily-shaped ﬂowers. After the fruit is set and ripens, the ﬂowers do
not fade but turn green, thus prolonging the ornamental periods of this
plant for several months. This plant is used but little as an ornamental,
but from trials made in Texas and elsewhere the Plant will thrive in any
location where soft soils and some moisture exist. It needs open sunlight.
It is a perennial and persistent. A cluster of the roots of this plant when
once established will maintain itself.

Nolina Lindheimertizna (Scheele) S. Wats. This near relative of the bunch
grass is often called Ribbon Grass. It produces a heavy rosette of leaves
about one-half inch in width and eighteen to twenty inches in length. In
early summer it puts up a seed stalk which resembles a miniature yucca,
rising to a height of eighteen to twenty inches and producing a number 'of

l4 BULLETIN NO. 551, TEXAS AGRICULTURAL EXPERIMENT STATION

small yucca-like ﬂowers followed by small black seed capsules. This plant
is native to sections 4, 4B, 1, and 5, but will thrive anywhere Within the
state. Nowhere is it commercial. It is a good addition to any collection
of yuccas or desert plants, or as a member of a rock garden association.

Nolina texana S. Wats. Bunch Grass. The common name of this plant is a
misnomer as the plant is a deﬁnite lily. The leaves produced are low
grass-like blades, a11d some of them are three feet in length. The ﬂower
clusters which are borne early in the spring come from the ground at
the base of the plant. The ﬂower stalk is pink and about eighteen
inches in length. It bears small white lily-like ﬂowers. As the seed
ripens, the stem raises itself so that the seed are held above the ground.
This plant is excellent for border specimen plants or as cover for the
bases of trees. The plant is native to sections 4, 4B, and 5, and will
thrive in any section of the state. It was well known to the early
settlers who used the leaves for thatch material, to make baskets, tie corn
tops, and hang bacon. On the Edwards Plateau, Where it is most
common, it furnishes large amounts of browse material during the parts
of year when grass is out of the question. Commercial.

Schoenocaulon Drummondii A. Gray. Green Lily. A little-known lily,
common to the most of Texas. It reaches its greatest population on the
Rio Grande Plains but is found as far north as Dallas. It is a perennial
and has grass-like leaves from six to ten inches in length. During the
summer it produces three or four spikes of small white lily-like ﬂowers.
As the seed ripens and pods enlarge, the ﬂowers turn green and the
bloom and seed pods give a very odd appearance. This little plant
is a nice addition to any garden in which a specialty is made of bulb
plants. It is also a good addition to a rock garden as it ﬁts in this
association.

Smilax laurifolia L. Laurel-leafed Smilax. This smilax has smooth dark
green leaves and few thorns on the vines. It grows to extreme length
and is sought after for decorations. Native to sections 4, 4B, and 1 and
growing to great length and age, it is easily transplanted as it bears
large tuberous roots. Each tuber will produce a new vine. This plant
should be largely used in that part of Texas east of Austin. It makes
a beautiful cover for arbors or rock walls.

Swtilaoc Pseudo-china L. Chinese Smilax. Native of sections 7A, 4A, 4,
4B, and 1, this smilax-like laurifolia is very largely used and in some
places cultivated for ornamental purposes. The few thorns and hard
green leaves which last for days as a cut decorative make it valuable as an
ornamental. It also can be propagated by the division of tuberous roots.

Trillium pusillum Michx. Native of piney woods of East Texas but will
grow under cultivation in sections 4A, 4, 4B, 1, and 2. This peculiar
plant with only three leaves and one peculiarly colored ﬂower is an
oddity which makes an addition to the garden. It should be largely used
where only a small place is available and an attractive assortment of
plants is to be grown. This species like other Trilliums can be pur-
chased from the ﬂorist.

VALUABLE PLANTS NATIVE TO TEXAS 15

Yucca alotfolia L. Aloe-leafed Yucca. Like all of the genus, this plant
belongs to Texas and is a part 0f the landscape. It should be used wher-
ever possible because of its stateliness, longevity, and ease of culti-
vation. This species is a native of the Gulf Coast of Texas and is
about the only Yucca which does well in the eastern part of sections 1
and 2.

Yucca aﬂcausaua Trel. Yucca. Common in sections 4, 4B, and 1 and does
better in that part of the state than any other species. This plant should
be very largely used in roadside plantings.

Yucca glauca Nutt. Yucca. This is the common yucca of sections 7 and 7A.
It is also found in 4A, 5, and 6 and will grow anywhere that it is cared
for; however it is better to use this plant for roadside and park work
in the sections where it is native.

Yucca louusilaueusis Trelease. Early Yucca. This is native to sections 4,
4B, 1, and 2. It is a short-leafed Yucca blooming in March and April
and having large clusters of greenish-white, pear-shaped ﬂowers. Differ-
ing from most yuccas it has underground root stalks which are parallel
to the surface of the ground. This Yucca is an addition to any collection
of plants of this general nature as it blooms long before most of the
species.

Yucca macrocarpa (Torn) Coville. Western Dagger. Native to sections
7, 7A, and 5. It takes the place on the plains which Yucca Trcculeana
Carr holds in sections 4, 4B, 2, and 3. The plant grows to a height
of twenty feet and when properly cared for is a splendid ornamental
which should be used in all ﬂoral plantings especially where large
buildings and roadside parks are to be served.

Yucca rupicola Scheele. Twisted-leaf Yucca. This is a native of sections

_ 4A, 4, 4B, and 5. It has smooth green leaves which are more or less

turned on their longitudinal axes. It bears the regular yucca fruit
stalks and blooms in June. It is the most common yucca throughout
central Texas. It should have a place in every collection of yuccas or
in every rock garden. It also is valuable for roadside and park work.

Yucca Treculeaua Carr. Spanish Dagger. Native of sections 4A, 4, 4B,
2, 3, and 5. This tall, heavy-set yucca is representative of southeast Texas.
It produces huge clusters of pink to white ﬂowers in February and
March. There is no plant that has a more stately appearance when it

is given care. It will grow to considerable height and in old age becomes’

a much branched tree. The most beautiful specimens are those which
bloom at an age of from two to three years. This plant is so widely
used that everyone is familiar with it.

DIOSCOREACEAE

Dioscorea villosa (D. paniculata Michx) L. Wild Yam. The northern
representative of the yam family of the Tropics, this species is a low-
growing vine, annual above ground from a perennial ﬂeshy root stalk.
It bears numerous pale green, beautifully-veined leaves about two inches

16 BULLETIN NO. 551, TEXAS AGRICULTURAL EXPERIMENT STATION

long, in late summer bearing a cluster of small white ﬂowers which are
followed by an ornamental cluster of peculiarly shaped seed pods and
which will persist throughout the winter. The plant will attract atten-
tion wherever grown and being a perennial makes an excellent vine for
small trellises or to cover a porch post. Native of sections 4B and 1 and
will give good service also in sections 4A, 4, and parts of 5.

AMARYLLIDACEAE

Agave americana L. Century Plant. The most common agave in culti-
vation. It will do well in any section of the statej however in sections
3, 5, 6 and adjacent parts it grows as a native. While called century
plant, a bloom may be looked for in eighteen years from seed or offset.
This plant has been used so extensively that the heavy rosette of leaves
form a part of the landscape in Texas. Because of the enormous size
of the ﬂower stalks this plant is worthy of care through the long period
of years which it takes to secure the bloom.

Agave heterocantha Zucc. One of the common Lechuguillas. It is a
native of section 3. The leaf blades are about eighteen inches long,
dark green with a lighter stripe down the center. The thorns on the
edge of the leaf differ in length. Similar to the century plant, this
species requires about twelve years from seed to ﬂower. The seed stalks
are from ﬁfteen to twenty feet in height a11d bear spikes of small ﬂowers
which are mostly stamens. The plant dies as soon as the seed commences
to ripen.

Agave Zecheguilla Torr. This plant is the characteristic agave of sections
5 and 6 where it is dominant. It is similar to other agaves in manner
of growth but is smaller. The ﬂower stalks seldom are more than ten
t0 twelve feet in height. No collection of yuccas or any Western garden
is complete without one of these plants.

Agave maculosa Hook. (A. maculata Engelm.) This agave is a native of
sections 4, 4B, 1, and 2. It is a succulent, soft leafed form of the century
plant family. The leaves are dark green with red-brown splotches
which give it the common name of Rattlesnake Plant. The ﬂower stems
are from two to three feet high and bear from twelve to twenty tuberose-
like ﬂowers, pink to dark red in color. It is a perennial and hardy as
far north as Austin and probably throughout the state with the excep-
tion of section 1. This plant should be used in place of cultivated
tuberoses, Amaryllus, and similar species.

Agave variegata Jacobi. Texas Tuberose. This species is very similiar
to the one above and is confused with it. The leaves are smaller and
more numerous,‘ the ﬂower stalks more slender and red in color. The
plant is more hardy than maculosa. It is a native of the same territor-y
and probably will grow anywhere in the state.

Agave virginica L. The eastern representative of the agave family, it
ranges from the southeastern states through as far as San Antonio. The
leaves are green, soft, and succulent. Its ﬂowering stalk reaches a

VALUABLE PLANTS NATIVE TO TEXAS 17

height of from four t0 ten feet and bears small pink agave ﬂowers. At
the time that the ﬂowering stalks start to grow, large red splotches
appear on the green leaves. The plant is quite ornamental and belongs
in rock gardens 0r as specimen plants to occupy places along fences or
walls. It is widely spread but uncommon even in nature. It is easily
grown both from the roots and from seed. In Texas it is found wherever
sandy soils and timber occur east of San Antonio.

Oooperia Drummondii Herb. a-nd Gooperia pedunculata Herb. White Rain
Lily. These are the common white lilies which appear shortly after
every rainy period; native to almost all of Texas, and because of their
peculiarity of blooming several times during the season following rains
and the fact that they need no cultivation, they are extremely popular
with ﬂoriculturists in the northern and eastern parts of the United
States. This species can be planted in a lawn with the surety that they
will not in any way injure the looks of the lawn but after each good
rain will produce a beautiful white ﬂower which will last from two to
three days. The bulbs are carried by all dealers.

Hymenocallis galvestonensis Baker. White Spider Lily. This is a native
of swamps and wet meadows in sections 2 and southern parts of sections
4B and 1. The bulbs are quite large and are from ten to ﬁfteen inches
under the ground, which makes it extremely hard to obtain. They
are carried commercially. The plant produces several ﬂowers and blooms
from early spring to late fall, individual plants often reaching a height
of from three to four feet. The ﬂowers are peculiar in that they are
white, about two inches in diameter, but each petal bears a long white
streamer. It is a very desirable species for water planting whether in
natural water courses or in lily pools.

Zephyranthes teacana Herb. Yellow Rain Lily. This beautiful yellow lily-
like plant is not well known although it occurs in large numbers in
sections 4A, 4, 4B, 2, 3, 5, and probably elsewhere. The ﬂowers occur
after every rain of more than one-half inch which falls between June
and November. The ﬂowers can be looked for in thirty hours after the
rain comes. In many places the ground is completely covered with
the bright yellow ﬂowers which are copper red on the outside, a fact
which gives the rathervcommon name of copper lily to this plant. The
bulbs are about three-fourths of an inch in diameter and occur about two
and one-half inches below the surface. The leaves resemble grass and
grow in sodded areas. The ﬂowers open for one day and a bloom
seldom lasts for more than three days. This accounts for the fact that
many people who live where this plant is common have never seen it in
bloom. A small planting of these bulbs in a lawn or in a plat given over
to bulbs is a very showy addition to any garden. Several other species of
yellow rain lilies occur in the state. There is so little information that
anyone interested in plants should collect and grow yellow rain lilies
until their habitat is deﬁnitely known. Their beauty will pay for the
care given them.

18 BULLETIN NO. 551, TEXAS AGRICULTURAL EXPERIMENT STATION
IRIDACEAE

Herbertia Drummondiana Herb. A blue-ﬂowered lily-like plant which is
almost unknown, though occurring frequently in sections 4, 4B, 1, 2, and
3. It can be looked for wherever shade, moisture, and soft soil occur.
The ﬂowers open in May and June especially after rains. The leaves are
grass-like six to eight inches high. The ﬂowering stalks bear from
two to three ﬂowers one and one-half inches in diameter with three blue
sepals and three much smaller white ones. It has a bulb about one-
half inch in diameter which is found at a depth of about three inches.
It can be transplanted at any time and will bloom in its regular season.
If one desires to move bulbs, it should be done immediately after the
ﬂower falls or the plant well marked as the entire plant disappears in
a few days after ﬂowering.

H erbertia Watsom‘ Baker. A species bearing a ﬂower about two and one-
half inches in diameter and reaching a height of from eighteen inches
to two feet. Three sepals are bright blue and three are mottled with
yellow. It is a native of sandy parts of southeast Texas but will grow
anywhere within the state when given the proper care. These two
species should be sought and grown because of the beauty of their
ﬂowers which rival that of cultivated lilies. The last and probably two
other larger species of this genus are native to section 3. Flower lovers
should be on the lookout for such plants and secure the bulbs for culti-
vation.

Iris fulva Ker. Iris. (I. cupreia Pursh.) Bronze Iris. Native to sections
1 and 2 where it grows in deep swamps in the edge of standing water,
this plant will probably do well in collections of Iris if proper location
and care are given. Commercial.

Iris virg-inyica L. (I. carolinianum S. Wats.) A tall-growing Iris. Native
to the Gulf Coast swamps and marshes, it will probably do well where
water plantings are being made in the southern parts of sections 4A, 4 and
4B. With care it can be grown in any Iris garden. There are at
least three other species of Iris native to Texas. All of these should
be added to the Iris gardens and water plantings of the southeastern
half of the state.

Nemastylis acute (Bart.) Herb. Celestial or Dragon’s Head. An Iris-like
plant growing-to the height of eighteen inches and bearing a light blue
ﬂower almost two inches in diameter, it blooms in April and May. Like its
relative this plant is worthy of cultivation in any yard or garden. All
the cultivation needed is to protect the plant from livestock. The plant
will grow very nicely in beds with other bulbs without coming into
competition. ‘

Nemastylis- coelestina (Bart.) Nutt. Celestials or Dragon’s Head. A
small Iris-like plant growing to a height of about one foot, bearing three
to ﬁve light blue ﬂowers one and one-half inches in diameter. This
plant is a native to sections 1 and the southern parts of 4A, 4, and. 4B.

VALUABLE PLANTS NATIVE TO TEXAS 19

It blooms in April and May. When found in the wild it should be
marked, the bulbs procured later and moved to protected locations. The
bulbs are found about four inches underground. They should be planted
about the same depth and if protected will give a bloom each spring.

Szlsyrinchium Blue-eyed Grass. To this genus belongs a large number of
very similar species which are found native over all of Texas. These
species agree in having grass-like leaves not more than three to four
inches in length and bear numerous blue ﬂowers throughout the spring
and early summer. The plants very much resemble grass as they form
sod that are mistaken by many for species of grass. All of the species
are very well adapted to cultivation. They make beautiful border plants
and because of the varying shades of several species a solid bed made
up of this genus presents a most beautiful appearance in the spring.
After that the plant appears as a bunch of wide-leafed grass. It will
pay anyone to procure and grow the species of blue-eyed grass native
to his locality and to bring in others as he may procure them.

MARANTACEAE

Thalia dealbata Roscoe. (T. barbata Small.) Powdery Thalia. A most
beautiful but almost unknown plant as its native home is in deep swamps.
It is found in sections 4B, 1, and 2. The plants consist of several leaves.
Each leaf consists of a green stem about twenty inches long which bears an
ovate, canna-like leaf. From the center of the cluster of leaves arises a tall
bamboo-like stem which bears several clusters of bright purple ﬂowers
each of which is about one-half inch wide. They are followed by nut-
like fruits about one-half inch in diameter. For water planting or a
lily pool there is no more beautiful plant. They are hardy as far north
as Austin and will grow with a slight protection throughout the remain-
der of the state. These plants require much water and some shade.
They are adapted to streams and lake shores. Commercial.

ORCHIDACEAE

Spiranthes Orchis. Because of the peculiarity of the life history of
orchids of which there are about thirty species in the state it requires an
expert to succeed in raising them. If one has shade, moisture, and the
inclination, it is possible that all of the species in the state which grow
on their own root system can be raised. The small grass-like plants
reach a height of ten to twenty inches and bear a small yellowish white
ﬂower which has a peculiarly sweet odor. Those wishing to try growing
Texas orchids should mark the plants and after the ﬂowers have seeded
procure and bring home the root clusters. By transplanting a consider-
able portion of the soil with the root cluster intact, success can be hoped
for.

SAURURACEAE

Tipularia cernuus (Pursh) Nutt. Lizard’s Tail. An interesting plant which
occurs in swampy places through sections 4A, 4, 4B, 1, 2, 3, and prob-
ably elsewhere in Texas. It can be grown in any sandy place where shade is

v

20 BULLETIN NO. 5S1, TEXAS AGRICULTURAL EXPERIMENT STATION

abundant. It is most easily grown by obtaining a root cluster; however
after it is started it will seed itself. It is recommended for planting
where water seeps through embankments especially along irrigation
ditches.

Anemopsis californica Hook & Arn. This plant is known only from two
places, one in section 6 and one in section 7; however, it will grow any-
where throughout the state if it is planted in marshy sunny places. It
has white anemone-like ﬂowers about one and one-half inches in diam-
eter which are produced in abundance throughout the year. As it is
native as far north as Lubbock it undoubtedly will do well anywhere within
the state where proper moisture is supplied. It is worthy of a trial by
anyone interested in water-loving plants.

SALICACEAE

Populus angustifolia James. This is the cottonwood of Trans-Pecos Texas.
It should be planted through that section. It also should do well in
parts of sections 7 and 5.

Populus deltoides Marsh, var. virginiana (Foug) Sudw. This is the native
cottonwood of central and eastern Texas and where cottonwoods are
planted it will give better service than any other.

Poplulus tremuloides Michx., var. aurea (Tidest.) Daniels. Aspen Popple.
This small-leafed, white-barked tree is known only from Trans-Pecos
Texas. It should be added to the list of cultivated trees as it makes a
quick growth and is quite ornamental. It will grow throughout sections
7, 7A, 4A, 4,“ and 4B. Where one desires a cottonwood it is advised
that native plants be secured as they will give much better results than
those brought in from elsewhere. There are two or three species of
cottonwoods known to each of the ﬂoral areas of the state, and from
these, selections should be made for local plantings.

GARRY AOEAE

Garry/a Lindheimeri Torr. Silk Tassel Bush. A native of sections 7A, 4A,
4, and 5 and will grow anywhere in the state if planted and given a
small amount of protection. Its growth is regulated by moisture and
soil. Where the moisture supply is small the plant is a shrub, but
where moisture is plentiful, it becomes a tree twenty to thirty feet in
height. The leaves are almost coriaceous and covered with considerable
wool. In early spring it bears silky white spikes from which the small
pink ﬂowers protrude. In the fall these spikes are followed by clusters
of blue berries. The plant is not common even in its habitat but is
sufficiently beautiful to warrant its cultivation. It is most easily obtained
by growing from seed.

MYRICAOEAE

Myrica cerifem L. (M. carolinensic Mill.) Wax Myrtle. This is one of
the shrubs from which the bayberry candles of literature are made.
The whole plant is odoriferous. The seed pods and some of the leaves are
covered with white wax in the fall of the year. It is a native to

 

VALUABLE PLANTS NATIVE TO TEXAS 21

sections 4B, 1, 2, and probably others wherever swampy lands occur.
The bush generally grows to a height of three to four feet and is made
up of small wand-like branches covered with yellow green leaves. It
does at times assume tree-like form. Wherever swamp lands occur
and are to be beautiﬁed or water plantings to be made, the Wax myrtle
makes a good hedge or background. It should be used very largely
on the Gulf Coast and in East Texas.

J UGLAN DAGEAE

Garya. Ten species of hickory occur in Texas. All of these have been
transplanted or grown from seed for use as ornamentals along streets or

in parks. Several nurseries offer species of hickories for sale. The
best known of this group is Oarya pecan (Marsh) Engelm. & Graebn.,

which is properly considered the State Tree of Texas. All hickories are
ornamental, and none are difﬁcult to transplant, or to grow from seed.
In choosing species one should take the tree which grows in the neighbor-
hood. It is to be remembered that certain hickories grow in river
bottoms and damp locations. Such trees should be selected for road-
side plantings where the road crosses such damp sections. While seldom
planted, Oarya myristicaeformis (Michx. f.) Nutt., a river bottom hickory
growing in sections 4, 4B, and 1, should be planted where lake and
river fronts are to be beautiﬁed. The peculiarly formed nuts, while
not edible, are attractive.

Juglans major (Torr.) Heller. A very attractive walnut. It is found
native only around the west and south borders of section 7A. It is a
large tree as compared with other trees in its territory. It has the
bark of the black Walnut but the leaves are similar to pecan. The fruits
of this tree are not over three-fourths of an inch in diameter and are
very smooth. This tree has been quite largely distributed by nursery-
men throughout sections 7, 7A, and 5. It probably will do well even
farther east.

Juglans nigm L. Black Walnut. This is a Western form of black wal-
nut of commerce. In Texas east of San Antonio it reaches suﬁicient
size to furnish lumber. It has never been popular for planting. It
should, however, be used for roadside and park work. It will thrive
throughout sections 7, 7A, and 4A, which makes it a desirable tree.
It is best to obtain the seed where the tree is to be planted.

BETULACEAE

Alnus rugosa (Du Roi) Spreng. (A. serrulata Willd.) Alder. This tall-
growing shrub, which is the Western representatitve of the alder so
popular as an ornamental in the northeastern United States, deserves
cultivation here. It is native to sections 4B, 1, and 2 and will also grow in
4A and parts of 3 and 5. It grows as a bush but with straight stems
covered with brown bark and bearing withe-like branches covered with
numerous small green leaves. It is one of the ﬁrst plants to put out
leaves in the spring and during the summer and fall is covered with

22 BULLETIN NO. 551, TEXAS AGRICULTURAL EXPERIMENT STATION

cone-like seed pods which are very attractive to small birds. As a hedge
or screen, this plant offers a diversion from the ordinary plants used.

Betula nigm L. Black or River Birch. A common tree in sections 4B and 1
and will grow in sections 4A, 4, and parts of 3 and 5 if given a chance.
It requires moist conditions and makes a very desirable addition to any
park where a lake or water course is included. For roadside plantings
it is one of the trees that should be used where the highways cross wide
valleys. The bright yellow foliose bark and shining yellow twigs make
this tree very ornamental. Commercial.

Garpinus caroliniana Walt. Horn beam. A little known tree grown in
sections 4B and 1 where like birch it grows along rivers and in swamps.
It is called Horn Beam because of the peculiar ﬂuting ofthe branches
which resemble the antlers of an elk. The tree is hardy throughout the
eastern half of the state and should be used where damp locations occur
along roads and in parks. The tree grows to considerable size. It also
is one of the plants whose leaves turn bright yellow in the fall of the
year.

Ostrya virginiama (Mill.) K. Koch var. lasia Fernald. Koch. Hop-Horn
beam. So called because of the fluted branches and seed pods which resemble
the hops of commerce. Differing from its relative, the Horn Beam, this
tree grows on dry hill slopes and instead of a smooth green bark has
brown shredded covering something like cedar. As a whole the tree
resembles a small round topped elm until the fall of the year when its
fruit develops, at which time it has a most distinctive appearance. It
should be largely used in Texas east of Austin in park and roadside
plantings. It also should be used as a specimen tree in small yards
because of its compactness, early maturity, and freedom from water
sprouts. Commercial.

FAGACEAE

Oastanea ﬂoridana (Sarg.) Ashe. Chinquapin. This is a tall growing
shrub bearing fruits similar to pumila but does not reach the size
of a tree. This shrub has been cultivated in numerous towns in East
Texas where it makes a very attractive specimen plant in yards and
along roadsides. It doubtless will give service in sections 4 and 4B, as
well as 1 where it grows as a native.

Oastanoa pumila (L.) Miller. Chinquapin. A small round-topped tree
somewhat resembling the eastern chestnut. Native of section 1 and
growing in cultivation in sections 4 and 4B, the tree is rather decorative
as in early spring it is covered with many cream-colored small ﬂowers and
in the fall of the year produces heavy groups of chestnut-like fruits.
The nuts are considered superior to the eastern chestnut and in section
1 a grove of these trees is looked upon as a valuable asset. It can be
raised from the seed more easily than by transplanting. Commercial.

VALUABLE PLANTS NATIVE TO TEXAS 23

Fagus grandifolia Ehrh., var. carolinilana (Loud.) Fern. & Rehder. Beech.
This magniﬁcent tree occurs as a native in sections 4B and 1 and has
grown to some extent in sections 3 and 4. It is one of the most beauti-
ful of the eastern forest trees. Its buttressed trunk and smooth gray-
green bark call attention to it at once. It should make a ﬁne tree
for roadside planting where there is considerable shade and the trees
are needed to relieve the monotony of a pure stand forest.

Quercus. There are sixty-two species and varieties of oaks in Texas, ranging
from low bushes to the largest trees which are native to the state. This
is probably the most valuable genus of plants within the state.

Quercus alba L. White Oak. Native and should be used for roadside and
other plantings in sections 4A, 4, 4B, 1, and part of 3. The white oak
is probably the most popular tree where permanent plantings in parks
are being made.

Quercus Brayi Small Brays Oak. Found only in section 5 but will
probably give good service in the adjacent parts of 7A, 4A, 4, and 3. It
belongs to the chestnut oaks group, grows to considerable size, and is
covered with large blue-green leaves. The acorns are about one inch
long, black, and sought after by livestock, especially by turkeys. The
trees are found in creek and river valleys throughout the eastern part
of the Edwards Plateau.

Quercus breviloba (Torr.) Sarg. White Oak Shinnery. This is the shin-
nery oak or scrub white oak of the Edwards Plateau. It is quite valuable
as a browse plant and is used in plantings on the Edwards Plateau for
shade trees and to stop erosion. This small white oak should be planted
in large quantity for erosion control in sections 7A, 4A, 4, and 5.

Quercus Durandii Buckl. Durand’s White Oak. This oak, which has been
called the Texas white oak, is almost unknown. It occurs in a few iso-
lated groves through sections 4B and 2. The tree resembles a live oak
in general appearance but is more tall and slim, grows more rapidly and
should be used as a substitute for live oak in' plantings in sections 4,
4B, 1, and 2. The most noted grove of this oak is at La Porte.

Quercus Havardii Rydb. Havard’s Shinnery, Plains Shinnery Oak. This
little known oak is found in section 7 where it is the dominant plant
in twelve counties. This-oak-covered section together with the adjacent
parts of New Mexico which are covered with the same species is said to
be the largest forest of pure stand oak in the United States. The tree
seldomireaches a height of more than two feet and generally not over
eight inches. The bulk of the oak is underground. Short branches bear-
ing characteristic oak leaves appear above the surface of the sands and
bear acorns very large in proportion to the plant on which they occur.
This shinnery oak spreads both by seed and by underground root stalks. It is
the most valuable of all sand binders and will probably grow in any section
of Texas where sand binders are needed. It can be transferred by taking
out the root stalks or by sowing the acorns. In numerous towns in West
Texas and eastern New Mexico this shinnery oak is used to good advantage
a-s a cover for park sites in towns and in yards.

24 BULLETIN NO. 551, TEXAS AGRICULTURAL EXPERIMENT STATION

Quercus Laceyi Small. Lacey’s Oak. Tall growing tree ofthe white oak
group. It is found in considerablenumbers in sections 4A, 4, and 5. It
is valuable as a shade tree and grows with considerable rapidity. It
can be grown anywhere on limestone soils, thus becoming valuable as
a shade tree for sections 5, 7A, 4A, and 4.

Quercus lyrata Walters. Over-cup Oak. Native of Texas east and south
of College Station. It is found growing in river valleys but will grow
anywhere within that section of the state. It has been widely planted
in cit-y parks and along roadsides. Commercial.

Quercus macrocarpa Michx. Bur Oak. Bears the largest acorns of any
tree in the state; should be planted more abundantly. It has the largest
leaves of any Texas oak and produces acorns which sometimes reach a
diameter of more than two inches. The trees will grow in sections 7A,
4A, 4, 4B, 1, 2, 5, and probably in 7. It is probably the most easily grown
of all oaks as the matured acorns when planted will germinate at once
and in ten years’ time the tree will be from four to six inches in diameter.

Quercus nigra L. Water Oak. This is the smooth-barked, entire-leafed
water oak native to sections 4B, 1, and 2. Because it will grow anywhere
on the Gulf Coast and because of the beauty of the tree, the water or
black oak should be largely planted. In several of the cities on the
Gulf Coast it is the most popular oak with the city foresters.

Qziercus Phellos L. Willow leaf Oak. This oak is found in the same terri-
tory and occupies the same location as the water oak. It, like its
relative, should be widely planted throughout the Gulf Coast and extreme
East Texas. Like the water oak it requires considerable moisture. It
is probable that both of these oaks can be grown in water plantings in
sections 4, 4B, and 3.

Quercus rubra L. Red Oak. This magniﬁcent tree which is native to
sections 5 and 6 will grow in sections 4 and 2 and is a very desirable
tree for roadside and park work. The tree grows to considerable height
producing a heavy foliage of leaves, dark green above and silver gray
below. It is a favorite in the city of Houston.

Quercus Shumardii Buckl. Shumard’s Red Oak. This is the common red
oak of East Texas. Native to sections 4A, 4, 4B, and 1 and will probably
give good service in 7A, 2, 3, and 5. It is easily transplanted in the
districts where it is native. The coarse brown bark with the lobed light
green leaves makes this very desirable for yard plantings.

Quercus stellata Wang. (A minor Sarg.) Post Oak. This species includ-
ing its varieties occurs in every section of the state. It has in its
favor the fact that where the native variety is used, the trees will grow
under the poorest conditions. Where a permanent tree that requires
little care and will give service for many years is needed, the native
variety of post oak should be used. It can be grown from acorns or
transplanted.

VALUABLE PLANTS NATIVE TO TEXAS 25

Quercus texano Buckl. Spanish Oak. Because of the habit of this tree
of turning brilliant colors in the fall, it has become popular for city
and park plantings. It is native of the Edwards Plateau country. It
is a common oak in section 5 and can be grown in parts of sections 7A,
4A, 4, and 4B where soils occur containing considerable lime.

Quercus velutina Lamarck. Black Oak. This is the largest and most
magniﬁcent of the red oak group. It is native in sections 5 and 6 and
has proved to be of service in plantings in 4, 2, and 3. It probably
can be grown in sections 4A and 5. Its large green leaves and enormous
size make it a very desirable tree.

Quercus virginiana Miller. Live Oak. The possibilities of this oak are
sowell known that it needs no description; however, it is to be said that
the live oak is of too slow growth for most purposes and that such oaks
as Quercus Durandii, Quercus rubra, Quercus vielutina and Quercus Laceyi

. should be used to supplement virginiana.

A number of other oaks especially those which are native to Trans-
Pecos Texas are suggested for trial; however nothing is known of their
actions when transplanted to other sections, and because of lack of a
supply of their seed or trees they can be recommended only to specialists.

ULMACEAE

Oeltis laevigata Willd. Smooth-leafed Hackberry. While hackberries are
not‘ recommended for planting because of their short life and the fact
that they harbor plant diseases and insects, they ﬁll a need for a
rapid growing shade tree and probably will always be planted in increas-
ing numbers. The smooth-leafed hackberry is a native of the Gulf Coast
country and will grow anywhere with the exception of sections 1 and 6.

Celtic pallida Torr. Granjeno. A bush-like shrub which is a honey
plant and bears numerous berries in the fall which are collected for
jellies and in many places sold under the name of algeredo. The bush
bears numerous short thorns. It is recommended for planting where
longevity and erosion control are desired. It will grow in sections
7A, 4A, 4, 4B, 2, 3, 5, and s.‘

Oeltils reticulata Torr. Rough leafed Hackberry. Native of sections 7A, 4A,
4, and 5 and will grow in any part of the state. These two species are
the most commonly cultivated. They are easily grown from seed, trans-
planted from the wild, or can be purchased.

Ulmus alata Michx. Winged Elm. The most common elm in Texas. It
reaches the height of its popularity in sections 4A, 4, and 5 but will
grow anywhere as it is found in the Lower Rio Grande Valley and along
the Gulf Coast. It is differentiated from other elms by the cork-like
wings found on the water sprouts and young branches. It is suitable
for roadside, park, and yard plantings. The large amount of seed which
it produces makes it very easy to secure small trees for plantings.

26 BULLETIN NO. 551, TEXAS AGRICULTURAL EXPERIMENT STATION

[Ylmus amerioana L. American or Feather Elm. The largest of the native
elms. It is found in every section of the state; however in the south-
western portion the trees have been introduced but have maintained
themselves and have become native. The tree needs moisture and
care.

Ulmus crassifolia N'utt Cedar Elm. This low-growing elm with the small
hard leaves is native of sections 7A, 4A, 4, 4B, 3, 5, and 6 and found to con-
siderable extent along the Rio Grande from El Paso to the mouth of the
river. While this elm is of low growth it is the most persistent and
easily grown of all the elms. Wherever a tree is needed to occupy
territory where other trees have failed this is the tree to be used. Com-
mercial.

Ulmus fulva Michx. Slippery Elm. This is so called because of the thick
mucilaginous bark which at one time was a very important drug in the
treatment of fevers. This low-growing heavy set elm is not of common
occurrence but is found to some extent in sections 4A, 4, 4B, and 5.
Where one wishes a special tree, the slippery or red elm is of value.
Commercial. -

MORACEAE

Broussonetia papyrifera (L.) Vent. Paper Mulberry. This tree was intro
duced into the state of Texas as food for silkworms. It has become a
weed among trees. It has nothing in particular to recommend it except
that it will grow anywhere and without care. Everywhere it is found
it is an unsightly object. It should be replaced by other and more
popular trees.

Maclura pomifera (Raf.) Schneider Bois d’Arc. This peculiar tree which
is noted for its extremely dark-colored wood is a native of sections 4B
and 2 but will grow anywhere in the state that it is planted. The young
plants are covered with very stout thorns which led to the exploiting
of this tree as a hedge plant between 1870 and 1885, during which time
hedges were planted throughout the state of which there remain today
unsightly trees which mark the attempt to make Texas a land of hedges.
The tree has little to recommend it in general planting; however in parks
specimen trees of this species should be maintained and planted along
roadsides to relieve the monotony of a continuous avenue of the same species.

Morus alba, L. Russian Mulberry. This tree like Bois D’Arc was intro-
duced through Texas in the 1870’s and ’80’s. This was one of the plants
which was used in the attempt to establish windbreaks in the north Pan-
handle country, where today small unsightly groves testify to the attempts
of early settlers to beautify and protect their farmsteads. In other parts
of Texas it was introduced as a fruit tree where it has gone wild and
become a nuisance. It is recommended for plantings only in the sandy
Darts of section 5 where this tree will grow and produce fruit when
other trees fail.

VALUABLE PLANTS NATIVE TO TEXAS 27

Morus microphylla Buckl. Mountain Mulberry. Native of sections 7A,
4A, 4, and 5. It is a neat looking miniature mulberry tree with leaves
about one and one half inches across. It is found native only among
the rocks and hills of sections mentioned; however when transplanted
it will grow in sections 7A, 4A, 4, 4B, 3, and probably elsewhere. It
makes a very nice addition to any collection of small trees. It is recom-
mended for yard plantings.

M orus nigra L. and M orus rubm L. The red and black mulberries. These
are native to sections 4A, 4, 4B, 1, 3, and 5. While of slower growth,
they are more desirable trees than Morus alba and produce superior
fruit. They are easily grown, are of long life, and adapt themselves
to open or park plantings. Commercial.

LORANTHACEAE

Phoradendron ﬂavescens (Pursh.) Nutt. American Mistletoe. This par-
tially parasitic shrub will grow on almost any tree over a large part of
Texas. As a rule it is detrimental to plants under cultivation. As a
curiosity and a parasite grown under control, a mistletoe plant on a
tree or shrub in a yard will attract a great deal of attention and is
ornamental. Such a plant may be procured by the placing of the ripe
mistletoe berries on the portion of any tree where it is desired to have
the plant. It will require from two to three years from the placing of
seed to the ﬁrst blooming of the mistletoe. Mistletoe will live through
many years.

Phoradendron juniperin-ztm Engelm. Cedar Mistletoe. This mistletoe is
a native of Trans-Pecos Texas but is almost unknown even to those living
in that section. Where one has native junipers as ornamentals and
desires plants of much interest, it will pay to import the cedar mistletoe
berries and attempt to grow them on the junipers already established.
This has been done in several cases with success.

ARISTOLOCHIACEAE

Aristolochia brevipes Benth. var. acummata S. Wats. (A. Watsoni Woot.
and Standl.) Prostrate plant having branches from one to two feet long
and bearing throughout the spring a11d summer most peculiar colored
and shaped ﬂowers. The plant has a heavy perennial underground root
making it easy to transplant from the wild. It can also be raised from
the seed which are produced abundantly. Seedling plants are numerous
around well established plants. The plant is a native of sections 5 and 6
but will also grow in the southern parts of sections 7, 7A, 4A, and 4,
and in the northern parts of section 3.

Aristolochia hastata N'utt. Nash. Snake Root. The genus Aristolochia or
Dutchman’s Pipe group is a very interesting one because of the peculiarly
shaped and colored ﬂowers. All of those growing native to Texas are
little known_but make a ﬁne addition to the cultivated plants of the
state. A collection of these plants makes as attractive a garden as can

28 BULLETIN NO. S51, TEXAS AGRICULTURAL EXPERIMENT STATION

be imagined. Nash’s Pipe Vine is the rare member of the group in
Texas. It is found only in the sand ﬂats of Sections 4B and 1. The
plant consists of a number of clustered leaves which are almost grass-
like, dark green in color, and arise from a heavy perennial tuber. In
early summer and" continuing throughout the season it produces peculiarly
shaped and colored ﬂowers from stems which arise at the base of the
plant. The stems and leaves are dark green, while the ﬂowers are vary-
ing shades of white and yellow. This is one plant which the grower
can point out with pride as a very rare and showy plant.

Aristolochia longiﬂora Engelm. and Gray. Swan Flower. This very
inconspicuous but most showy representative of the genus is found in
sections 4A, 4, 4B, 1, 3, and probably 2. It is practically unknown even
where it is common as it grows among grasses, and very much resembles
certain species of Panicum. The plant itself comes from a deep seated
tuberous root. It is a vine like plant bearing several lanceolate leaves
about one-third of an inﬁh wide and two inches long. These are green
with a red-brown undercolor. The ﬂowers are borne in the axils of the
leaves from March until November. The ﬂowers somewhat resemble

the picture of a swan, the body of the swan being the future seed pod‘

and the neck and bill the calyx tube. The ﬂower itself will measure
from one and one-half to three inches in length, depending on the soil.
The ﬂower is red-brown on the outside and on the inside of the calyx
tube are spots of black surrounded by zones of brilliant yellow. The
seed pods are six-sided capsules one-half by one and one-half inches in
dimension. The plant can be grown by planting the tubers, or it can
be grown from seed. This plant has been successfully grown in many
places in Texas and as far away as Washington, D. C‘.

Aristolochia rettculata Nutt. This is a beautiful member of the genus
which is native to sections 4B and 1, where it is to be looked for in moist
heavy forests; however, it will grow anywhere that moisture and some
shade are provided. The plant is vine-like, growing to a height of eight
to ten inches. It produces some ten or twelve heart-shaped leaves which
are dark green and almost coriaceous. The undersides of these leaves
are very heavily veined and light gray. In summer the plant produces
two kinds of ﬂowers, small white ones just under the ground and large
showy ones which resemble tiny Dutchman’s Pipes above the ground.
The entire plant has a pleasing medicinal odor. This plant has been
successfully propagated in many places in East Texas andin plant col-

lections outside the state.
I

Aristolochia serpentaria L. Virginia Snake Root. This is an almost vine-
like form of the Aristolochia. It is native along the north edge of section 2
and in the southern part of sections 4B and 1. It is another almost
unknown plant. It has ovate leaves and vine-like branches which reach
a length of three to four feet. It is common in the deep shade of their
thickets. It bears throughout the summer peculiar pipe-shaped ﬂowers
which have a long stem, giving it the common name of serpent vine.
This species too has been successfully brought into cultivation in a num-
ber of places not only in Texas but outside the state.

VALUABLE PLANTS NATIVE TO TEXAS 29

Aristolochia tomentosa Sims. Woolly Pipe Vine. This is the famous Dutch-
man’s Pipe Vine of seed catalogues. It is native to sections 4B, 1, and 2,
and will probably grow anywhere in the state that it is given a chance.
It is native as far north as St. Louis, Missouri, and as far east as Virginia.
It grows as a perennial tall-growing vine producing large heart-shaped
leaves which are covered with wool. Through the summer it produces
numerous small brown to yellow pipe—shaped ﬂowers which are followed
by large capsules that are almost as ornamental as the ﬂowers. This vine
will give the best of service where a continuous shade is needed as the
leaves are quite persistent. This is the only species that is commonly
carried by dealers. -

POLYGONAGEAE

Brunnichia cirrhosa Banks. Ear-drop Vine. This is a perennial vine
belonging to the buckwheat family and is native along the water courses
of eastern Texas. In cultivation it will do well in sections 4A, 4, 4B, 1, 2,
and 5. It is a strong growing vine which needs soft soils and moisture.
The stems grow to great length covering any support given the plant.
Throughout the summer it produces ﬂowers which are about one and
one-half inches in length and resemble elongated buckwheat ﬂowers.
Cared for, this is a very ornamental vine and deserves a place wherever
conditions are favorable and where vines are used to cover pergolas,
fences, or trellises. It grows rapidly and assures one of a permanent
shade accompanied by clusters of beautiful white ﬂowers.

Eriogonum Abertianum Torr. A native of Trans-Pecos Texas. A tall
annual covered with silky wool; leaves numerous and ovate; ﬂowers
borne in large clusters and rose colored. This plant doubtless can be
grown in cultivation in sections 5 and 6, the southern parts of 7, 7A, 4A,
4, and 4B, and the northern part of 3. This plant is recommended to
any experimenter who desires a very promising ornamental.

Eriogonum coriaceum Coult. and Fisher. A native of sections 7 and 6, and

recommended for trial in sections 7A, 4A, 4, 3, and 5. A perennial plant
growing to a height of about two feet,‘ bearing very peculiar lanceolate
leaves from three to ﬁve inches in length. These are borne at the base
of the plant. It has long woolly ﬂower stalks topped by clusters of
yellowish-white ﬂowers. The very fact that the plant is coriaceous and
perennial makes it a thing desired for park, yard, and wayside planting.
lt should be tried by anyone interested in new plants.

Eriogonum Havardii S. Wats. A native of Trans-Pecos Texas. This plant
consists of a large number of small dense rosettes arising from a deep-
seated root stalk. Each rosette puts up from two to three bare stalks of
pinkish-white Eriogonum ﬂowers. It grows in shale ﬂats and can endure
much drought and adverse weather. While there is no record of this
plant having been cultivated, there is no doubt that in the hands of the
horticulturist, it will become a desirable plant for bedding or edging of
large plantings.

30 BULLETIN NO. 551, TEXAS AGRICULTURAL EXPERIMENT STATION

Eriogonum undulatum Benth. A native of sections 7 and 6 and should
be tried in sections 7A, 4A, 4, 4B, 3, and 5. An Eriogonum covered with
silver white wool with oblong leaves, it bears long ﬂower stalks with
many silky white ﬂowers. Individual plants vary in the color of the
ﬂower clusters from white to almost pure yellow. From the endurance
of this plant as observed in nature, it will do extremely well under
cultivation.

Polygonella amiericana (Fisch. and Mey.) Small. Joint Weed. Small
perennial native to sections 4, 4B, and 1, where it grows in deep sands,
to a height of about two feet; it is an evergreen and resembles a small
cedar. During mid-summer and fall it is covered with white to pink
buckwheat-like ﬂowers. It can be transplanted and grown with success
where planted in soft, sandy soils with some shade. It has been suc-
cessfully transplanted in many parts of East Texas, and makes a very
attractive plant. ,

Polygonella articulata (L.) Meisn. Coast Joint Weed. This resembles the
one just described; a native of sea beaches along the Gulf Coast but will
grow in sandy locations anywhere in section 2 and along the east coast
of 3. An evergreen, it grows to a height of not more than one foot and
bears throughout the summer clusters of small white buckwheat ﬂowers.
As an ornamental for sea coast towns where sandiy conditions exist, and
especially around sea beach hotels, this plant can be used to great effect.
It is one of the few of the strand plants that can be grown under
cultivation.

Polygonum Hydropiper L. Water Pepper. Annual, having red stems,
light green lanceolate leaves, and numerous clusters of pink to dark red
ﬂowers. It is very useful for quick and beautiful cover. Where new
excavations are to be hidden or low places are to be covered, the seed of
this plant sown in early spring will insure a green and pink cover through-
out the summer and fall. It is native to the Gulf Coast section of Texas
but will grow anywhere there is a good supply of moisture; in pla-ces where
this plant is not native, it is planted as a garden ﬂower.

Polygonum hydropiperoides Michx. (P. opelousanum Riddell.) Small
Water Pepper. A plant similar to hydropiper but an annual, it will live in
standing water, and grow to a height of from three to four feet. This is
an excellent plant for roadside ponds in river valleys. It is also desirable
for water-fowl cover and feed. Small plants of this species make an excel-
lent addition to lake and waterfront plantings in parks.

Polygonum incarn/atwm Ell. Native in sections 4, 4B, and 2. An annual
Polygonum having light green leaves and rose-colored ﬂowers; its habitat
the banks of lakes and ﬂowing streams. It should be used in plantings of
like nature. It should be used to cover the banks of running streams which

are affected by high winds. Under controlled cultivation it makes a beau?

tiful cover for roadside planting in (lamp locations. It is also an excellent
food pla-nt for birds.

VALUABLE PLANTS NATIVE TO TEXAS 31

Polygonum Persicaria L. Lady's Thumb. Native to sections 4, 4B, and 2.
One of the red ﬂowered smartweeds. Because of its ease of growth and the
character of the soil in which it will grow, this makes an excellent cover
for newly-graded embankments. It is an annual a season’s growth of which
will help prepare the most coarse soils for the planting of more desirable
species or for grass. Like the other members of this genus the plant fur-
nishes excellent bird cover and food.

Rumeac Itymenosepalus Torr. Canaigre. Native to Texas west of San An-
tonio. It is a member of the dock group and resembles many of the common
members of the family but has much larger leaves and produces a large
number of tuberous roots. This is the tan plant of the Indians of the
Southwest, where recent experiments give promise that it will become an
article of commerce. It should be in every garden in sections 7, 3, 5,
and 6, and the southern parts of 4A, 4, and 4B. It requires sandy soils
and is best grown by planting small tubers in the fall of the year. New
leaves will appear at Christmas. The plant will be in full bloom and
soon disappear. The tubers will be ready to dig in July. As a specimen
plant it attracts much attention by its huge rosettes of glossy green
leaves and its spike of pink flowers in verly early spring. When grown as
an ornamental, it should be reset each year to do away with the increas-
ing number of tubers.

CHENOPODIACEAE

Atriplex aoarnthocarpa (Torr.) S. Wats. This is an Atriplex native to
Trans-Pecos Texas, an evergreen shrub bearing an abundance of silver
gray foliage and in the summer and fall covered by large seed capsules. The
plant will grow in the southern parts of 7, 4, 4B, 3, 5, and 6. In section 6
it should be planted to increase the extent of windbreaks and especially
as a cover for roadsides. I11 other sections it is useful as a windbreak
and as an ornamental. A single plant of this species properly cared for
is a plant which will be admired by all.

Atriplex canescens (Pursh.) Nutt. Chamiza. This Atriplex is the most
widely distributed of any of its species in Texas but is found in sections 7,
7A, 3, 5, and 6, and parts of 4A, 4, and 4B. It is a gray-green shrub
which bears numerous ﬂowers that are followed by large seed capsules
adding to the appearance of the shrub. It should be planted in large
quantities in its native territory to aid in the prevention of erosion by
water and wind. Where the plant is not native it is recommended for
hedges which are used for ornament, for backgrounds for beds of ﬂowers,

and for a specimen plant.

Eurotia Zanata (Pursh) Moq. Winter fat. A low growing shrub native to
section 6 and the southern parts of 7, sometimes called White Sage. It is
a valuable browse plant in Trans-Pecos Texas and doubtless under culti-
vation will be as valuable in sections 7, 7A, and 5. It has the valuable p"op-
erty of remaining succulent throughout the winter. It makes an excellent
windbreak to prevent the blowing of soils, and for tying together the banks

32 BULLETIN NO. 551, TEXAS AGRICULTURAL EXPERIMENT STATION

of excavations and ﬁlls. This and its kindred E. subsptnosa Rydb., which
is native 0f the same territory, should be encouraged throughout the
Western parts of Texas. Attempts to increase the population of this
plant by the sowing of seed have been very successful.

AMARANTHACEAE

lflroelichia Druwzmondii Moq. Snake Cotton. A tall wand-like plant which
bears its basal leaves in fours, this species produces ﬂowering stalks
three to ﬁve feet high which are covered with white wool, and at the
time its seed, which are also covered with white wool, are ripe, they
produce the cottony appearance that gives the name to the plant. It‘ is
common in the sandy parts of sections 4A, 4, 4B, 3, 7A, and 7, and
doubtless occurs throughout the state.
any of the foliage plants belonging to this family and is as easily raised.
It is an annual but the seed should be sown in October of the year pre-
ceding its bloom. It is an addition to an-y bed of Amaranthus. g

Gomphrenla decmnbens Jacq. Wild Globe Amaranth. This plant so much
resembles the cultivated species that it is scarcely distinguishable. This
is stronger growing and produces more brilliantly colored ﬂowers. A
native of sections 3, 5, and parts of 6, it will grow anywhere within the
state. Like the cultivated Gomphrena, it is one of the everlasting
ﬂowers. The seed should be collected as soon as mature and should be
sown in the middle of winter as the plant must develop a root system
before putting out the ﬂowering stalks.

Goznphrena Nealleyli Coulter and Fisher. Gulf Coast Amaranth. This
species is common in parts of 4, 4B, 2, 3, and 5. It is called the Gulf
Coast Amaranth because of its abundance in sandy places on the Gulf
Prairie. It resembles decumbens in looks and color, but the ﬂower, in
place of being a hemisphere, is a cylinder about one-third by three-
fourths of an inch. Its bright red ﬂowers make this very ornamental
where a plant that can take care of itself is needed. It grows abundantly
along roadsides in the vicinity of Goliad.

Ticlestromila lanuginosa (Nutt.) Standl. A most common plant along
roadsides in sections 7, 7A, 3, 5, and 6. This is the most ornamental of
the so-called foliage plants and has the ability to make abundant growth
under the most adverse circumstances. For planting where a cover is
needed for loose or rough land along the roadsides, or in parks where
single plants are needed for a background, or where an unsightly drain
is to be hidden, this plant is excellent. It is gray-green and has almost
the appearance of the ice or dew plants. The only objection to this plant
is that it must be held in subjection; however, the same is true of all
members of this group. This is highly recommended for those parts of
Texas where blowing soil or sand make the raising of common gardens
or ﬂower gardens next to impossible. A windbreak of this species will
be able to maintain itself in spite of blowing sand, thus forming a back-
ground which will protect more tender plants. It will grow anywhere in
Texas.

This plant is more showy than L

a

‘WM.- . . .

VALUABLE PLANTS NATIVE TO TEXAS 33

PHYTOLACCACEAE (Poke Weed)

Phaulothanznus sp/mescens A. Gray. Snake Eyes. This peculiar withe-
like plant, bearing minute ﬂowers which are followed by White berries
containing black seeds, has very rapidly come into prominence as a
possibility as an ornamental in section 3. It is known to occur from
Laredo along the bluffs of the Rio Grande to the Gulf, and northward to
Corpus Christi. It has been transplanted with success and those who
have utilized it feel amply repaid for having given this plant a place in
their gardens. It is said to make a ﬁne specimen plant. Its berries have
a strong sweet ﬂavor, and because of the family to which the plant be-
longs, it is probable that some chemical of value may be found in these
berries. It is doubtful if the plant will grow except in sections 2 and 3.

Phytolacca americana L. Poke. This distinguished-looking plant is native
to every section of Texas. Because of its abundance in some places it is
looked upon as a weed and has never been given a place as an orna-
mental. It will thrive in any soft soil but prefers sandy, shady locations,
and lives for many years producing an enormous tuberous root. In early
spring it sends out a heavy stem bud much resembling asparagus. It is
from these stems that the famous “poke salad” of the southeastern
United States is made. The stems grow to a height of from four to ten
feet. The bark is brilliant red and the leaves are ovate, dark green. It
bears numerous clusters of small white ﬂowers followed by purple
succulent berries which are not palatable. As a specimen plant nothing
growing in Texas will attract more attention.

Rivma humilis L. Pigeon Berry. A plant of much value as it is perennial
underground and annual above in the northern parts of the state, and
entirely perennial in the southern parts. It bears numerous heart-
shaped greenleaves and spikes of small white ﬂowers which are followed
by small bright red berries. The plant blooms and the seed ripens from
April until frost. It is easily multiplied by root division. It makes an
excellent edge for borders or backgrounds. In sandy soils it resembles
a vine where the plant will cover a trellis with a beautiful cover of spikes
of white and clusters of red.

NYCTAGINACEAE (Four o’Clock)

This plant is
It is quite
This plant

Abronia fragrans Nutt. Sand Verbena or Lasater’s Pride.
found growing wherever soft, sandy soils occur in Texas.
common in the sand hills of sections 7, 7A, 4A, 3, and 6.

‘ has been given considerable prominence in horticultural literature. The

late Edward Lasater of Falfurrias made selection for color of this
species and by publications made the plant a favorite among ﬂoricul—
turists: It will grow anywhere there are soft soils and a fair amount
of moisture. Commercial.

Acleisanthes longiﬂora. A. Gray. Angel Trumpets. A prostrate vine-like
plant with succulent triangular leaves which bear through the spring and

summer very long white tubed fragrant ﬂowers that are open in the
afternoon and through the night. The corolla tubes of the ﬂowers are

LIBRARY
llrlululalllanhaicdmqootluls

34 BULLETIN NO. 551, TEXAS AGRICULTURAL EXPERIMENT STATION

often six to eight inches in length. This vine can be propagated by root
division or by growing from seed. Native of sections 4A, 4, 4B, 3, 5,
and probably through the rest of the state. Commercial.

ACZCiSIKITLthC-S‘ obtusa (Choisy) Standl. Similar to the species above. The
ﬂowers are White to pink, larger in diameter, and with a corolla tube of
about two inches in length. This plant, however, grows as a climbing
vine, often reaching the tops of small trees, where large clusters of
white tubular ﬂowers are conspicuous in the late afternoon. The plant is
easily propagated by root division.

Nyctaginia capitata Choisy. Devil’s Bouquet. A most showy plant native
to sections 7A, 4A, 4, 4B, 3, 5, and 6. This plant, which is succulent and
prostrate, produces pairs of triangular leaves that somewhat resemble
those of the Rex Begonia. Throughout the summer it bears clusters, two
or more inches in diameter, of brilliant red ﬂowers; it can stand the
hottest, driest weather, its most common habitat being hot, dry road-
sides. It can be grown by root division or from the seed and requires
two years from seed to bloom. It is very handsome, is not poisonous, and
should be widely cultivated. l

PORTULACACEAE

Olaytonvia Si'~msi'i Sweet White Texas Star. A plant commonly called
White Texas Star. It is a vernal succulent arising from a heavy tuber.
It is a native of sections 4B and 1 but will grow under cultivation in 3
and 4. It is most easily obtained by the purchase of tubers which like
bulbs can be stored for some time. The plant should be part of every
rock garden because of its early blooming habit. It, however, will con-
tinue to make new ﬂowers after rains throughout the summer. Com-
mercial. I

Portulaca Moss Flower. There are ﬁve species of this genus in the state
all of which are called Hog Pursley. In every section there are varieties
which are worthy of cultivation. These should be sought out and used
as bedding plants because of their hardiness and ability to tolerate high
temperatures and lack of moisture.

Talinum aurantiacum Engelm. Yellow Flame Flower. Native of sections
4A, 4, 4B, and 3; will grow in sections 7, 7A, 1, and 5. This is a plant
worthy of any garden and one not seen in collections. It grows from a
thickened tap root to a height of over a foot, has linear leaves, and
produces yellow ﬂowers almost one inch in diameter, which open in the
late afternoons in hot, dry weather, making this plant valuable for fur-
nishing ﬂowers in midsummer. It is very common along fence rows and
in sparse thickets. The roots are easily transplanted. It also can be
grown from the seed and requires two years from seed to ﬂowers.

Talinum calycinum Engelm. Pink Flame Flower. Native of sections 7A,
4A, and 4, but can be grown in sections 4B, 3, and 5. It is similar to the
above species but grows taller, has leaves one-half inch wide and three

VALUABLE PLANTS NATIVE TO TEXAS 35

inches long, and produces ﬂowers pink in color which are one inch in
diameter and borne in the axils of the leaves. This plant has similar
habits to the above species and should be abundantly cultivated because
of its ﬂowers which occur when few other plants are blooming.

Talinum paniculatum (Jacq.) Gaertn. Pink Baby Breath. Native of sec-
tions 4, 4B. 2, 3, and 6, and is probably found all over the state. This
almost unknown plant comes from a ﬂeshy root stalk and bears numerous
triangular leaves which are very succulent. The lower branches are the
same but the upper branches are very small and wire-like, and bear a
large number of small pink ﬂowers. The ﬂowers appear ﬁrst in June
and continue to open until late fall. This plant also has been grown as a
house plant and the same individual has given good service through a
period of three or four years. Seedling plants appear in numbers under
the mother plant. As an oddity, a member of a rock garden or rock
garden group, or a companion plant for some small bush, this plant is
ideal. It will grow in the shade of almost any kind of a shrub and in
the middle of summer the shrub apparently bears ﬂowers which really
belong to the hidden plant beneath.

Talinum parviﬂorum Nutt. Dwarf Flame Flower. This peculiar Talinum
is little known. It grows to a height of from three to four inches, is a
perennial, and bears a cluster of succulent round leaves about one-third
of an inch long at the top of a red stem two to three inches long. From
the center of this cluster of leaves, there arise at times throughout the
summer wire-like ﬂowering stems. one and one-half inches to two inches
long, which bear from seven to ten minute pink ﬂowers. This plant is
common throughout sections 4A, 4, 4B, and parts of 3 and 5. It is to be
looked for in sandy locations where moisture is abundant and among
grasses, the pink ﬂowers just topping the grass sods. It makes a very
curious and excellent pot plant. A single specimen has been kept in the
house for more than two years with complete success. The minute seed
pods burst at maturity and the seedlings appear in a few days around
the mother plant. This miniature Talinum should be in every collec-
tion of small or miniature plants, or if one wishes an odd and rare pot
plant, it is a species to be desired. Commercial.

BASELLACEAE

Boussingaltea baselloitles H. B. K. Gulf Madeira Vine. So similar to the
cultivated Madeira Vine that this is supposed by many people who are
cultivating it to be the same species. It is common to the Gulf Coast
brush association which reaches from Matagorda Bay to the mouth of

the Rio Grande. It is also common in more or less shady thickets in-

section 5. The Texas Vine has shorter and more crowded spikes of
ﬂowers and blooms later in the year than the introduced species. The
native vine should be cultivated more extensively.

36 BULLETIN NO. 551, TEXVAS AGRICULTURAL EXPERIMENT STATION
NYMPHAEACEAE (Water-lily)

Pond Lily Family. This family has ten representatives in the state of
Texas. Wherever standing water or running water occurs, one or more
of these forms should be used. All species can be obtained from dealers;
however plants obtained by root divisions from the immediate neighbor-
hood will give the best results.

Nelumbo lutea (Willd.) Pers. Lotus, Youquepin Water Chinquapin. This
giant among water lilies is found growing in all sections of the state
and will do well anywhere it is imported into unoccupied water. It pre-
fers still water to running water. It is easily transplanted by root divi-
sions or by obtaining the nut-like fruits and planting them along the edges
of ponds.

Nuphar advenum (Ait.) Ait. f. Yellow Water Lily. Common to entire
state. Prefers running streams; bloom seldom noticed because it is small
and never completely opens. However because of its dark green leaves,
it is very desirable where a collection of water plants is maintained. It
is easily grown from root cuttings. Commercial.

Nymphaea elegans Hook. Pond Lily. Common white ﬂowered pond lily.
Flowers up to four inches in diameter, the white waxy petals tinged with
blue or violet; blooms throughout the summer. Native in sections 4, 4B,
1, 2, and 3 and will probably grow in any section of the state.

RANUNCULAGEAE

Anemone decapetala Ard. Spring Anemone. A most common ﬂower in
early spring, ﬂowers opening before the single leaf which accompanies
the ﬂower expands; ﬂowers pink, white, or blue. The plants arise from
tuberous roots. The early ﬂowers are much smaller than later ones pro-
duced in the same group. The plant is multiplied by obtaining tubers,
and should be in every small garden, rock garden, or collection of minia-
ture plants.

Aquilegia canadensis L. Columbine. Found in sections 4A and 5 where it
grows in wet, sandy localities in small canyons; beautiful and ideal for
growing in the shade in rock gardens and in yards. Where a large rock
garden is maintained in a public park, this plant should be one of the
ﬁrst to be tried. Commercial.

Aquilegila longissima A. Gray. Long Spurred Columbine. Native of the
high canyons of Big Bend section, growing in the edges of springs;
ﬂowers golden yellow and the spurs of the petals reaching a length of
three to four inches, making a most spectacular plant. This species is
destined to become one of great popularity. l

Aquilegta phoenicantha Cory. Cory’s Columbine. A most unusual and
distinct species bearing red ﬂowers. Native of canyons of section 5. As
it becomes available, this is destined to become a very popular plant in
rock gardens and greenhouses.

VALUABLE PLANTS NATIVE TO TEXAS 37

Clematis teacensis Baclcl. Clematis-Pipe Vine. A vine growing to
a height of ﬁfteen to twenty feet, common in river valleys. Native to
sections 4A, 4, 4B, and 5 and will grow elsewhere if cultivated. Recom-
mended for planting to cover trellises or bushes in yards and for
mass Work in park and roadside plantings. This plant bears no tendrils.
It has very peculiar dark green sepals, the tips of which are scarlet.
Commercial.

Clematis crlspa L. and C. crlspa var. Walteri (Pursh) A. Gray. ‘This
beautiful clematis is found in sections 4B, 1, 2, and parts of 3. It
is to be looked for along water courses and in wet meadows. The vine
which runs over low bushes reaches a length of ten to twelve feet. It
has hard green leaves and a thin red stem. The ﬂowers which are one
and one-half inches in diameter are a beautiful pale pink. This is one
of the best of the native species for cultivation. As its stems take root
wherever they touch the ground it is not hard to ﬁnd rooted specimens.
The var. Walteri grows as a single upright stem bearing from one to
two pairs of leaves and from one to two ﬂowers at the top. These
ﬂowers are from two to two and one-half inches in diameter. This plant
would make a very excellent center for bedding purposes. Both the
species and variety can be had from nurseries.

Clematis Drummondii T. and G. Old Man’s Beard. This clematis is the
most common vine in Texas. It is found in every section of the state and
in some is so abundant as to become a weed. In cultivation where the
old stalks are removed, it produces each summer a large number of
creamy white ﬂowers which are followed by the feathery fruits that give
the name to the plant. Where a vine is needed, this plant will grow with-
out any attention, and will make shade or serve as a windbreak.

Clematis Pitchem’ T. and G. Red-ﬂowered Clematis Pipe Vine. Very similar
to coccinea but a more common plant. Stems of the vine are red, and
the sepals of the ﬂowers range from purple to red, being borne quite
abundantly. Where moisture and shade can be had this vine will give
excellent service as a bush, vine, or background. Commercial.

Delphlnlam caroliniantlm Walt. Blue Larkspur. Native to sections 4A, 4,
4B, 1, 2, 3, 5, and probably 7 and 7A. Very well known but should be
utilized in park and roadside plantings and to a great extent in rock
gardens and in gardens. Differing from the introduced larkspur, the
native is a perennial and easily propagated from the tubers. Commercial.

Delphiniam irlrescens Nutt. White Larkspur. Found all over the state.
The tubers should be dug and transplanted in mid-summer in yards or
wherever they are to be grown. To this end when the wild plants are in
bloom, the place should be marked. The plants produce numerous tubers
and there is no danger of eradicating a colony by taking tubers as there
are always enough left in the soil to insure new plants.

Rammculus macranthus Scheele. Large Buttercup. This golden ﬂowered
plant is common along all of the water courses of" the state where it
grows in soft soils in shade. The plant is obtained either by transplanting
clusters of roots or by growing from seed. The seed should be planted in

1

38 BULLETIN NO. 551, TEXAS AGRICULTURAL EXPERIMENT STATION

September or October if a bloom is to be had the next year. The plant
should be a part of every water planting in parks and should be grown
as a specimen plant in yards, as it blooms through a period of a number
of weeks in early spring. It is a beautiful addition to any garden.

MAGNOLIAGEAE

Magnolia Ashez’ Weatherby. Cucumber Tree. This tree bears the most
magniﬁcent leaves of any tree that grows in the state. Leaves six inches
wide and two feet long are not uncommon. Its ﬂowers likewise attain
a diameter of from six to eight inches. This is one of the rare trees in
the state. There are two known localities for it, both located in section
6. This tree has been transplanted and also grown from seed. Cultivated
specimens are found in the cities of Beaumont and Houston. If one has
a moist locality, he can doubtless grow this plant anywhere in sections
4B, 1, and 2. It should be cultivated so as to prevent its extinction.

Magnolia grandiﬂom L. This beautiful tree needs no description or intro-
duction. It is native in sections 4B, 1, and 2. The magnolia will grow
almost anywere in the state. Commercial.

Magnolia virginioa L. Sweet Bay. This small species of Magnolia is native
to sections 1 and 2. It is a small tree growing to a height of twenty feet,
producing beautiful large lanceolate leaves, and white ﬂowers some four
inches in diameter. It is very largely grown in the sections inhwhich it
is native but is popular elsewero. Commercial.

ANONACEAE

Asimina parviﬂora (Michx.) Dunal. Bush Pawpaw. This small unusual
shrub is found in damp localities in sections 4 and 4B. It much resem-
bles the large pawpaw but grows and produces fruits up to one inch
long which are covered wtih wool. It is an oddity and because of its
rareness should be grown where collections of plants are maintained.
It requires shade and moisture.

Asimina triloba (L.) Dunal. Pawpaw. Small tree with large light green
leaves bearing in early spring dark red ﬂowers almost one inch across.
These are followed in early fall by greenish fruits about two by six
inches which are succulent, being ﬁlled with yellow sweet pulp and
large brown seeds. This plant does not grow abundantly in Texas.
It, however, should be increased by growing it in parks and yards in
sections 4, 4B, 1-, 2, and northeast portion of 3.

MENISPERMACEAE

Oocculus carolinus (L.) DC. Coral Berry. This vine is found in every
section of the state and should be grown wherever a woven wire fence is
to be hidden or one desires a wall of dark green throughout the summer
followed by one of coral red during the early winter. The plant is
easily grown from root division or comes from sowing the seed. It is

VALUABLE PLANTS NATIVE‘ TO TEXAS 39

a perennial aboveground but has very small wire-like stems, dark green
in color. The-y attain a height of about ten feet. The coral berry is
not poisonous as is commonly supposed. It should be included in every
collection of vines and used in every yard or park. It is one of the
most serviceable vines in Texas.

Oocculus diversifolius DC. Snail Seed. A vine similar to the one above
but found only in section 3. It doubtless, however, will grow in section
5 and the southern parts of 4, 4B, and 2. The plant resembles the coral
berry vine except that it has smaller and more varied shaped leaves.
In place of clusters of red berries this plant bears a few large light
green fruits which are somewhat succulent. The plant makes an excellent
shade vine where a small background is needed.

BERBERIDACEAE

Berberis trtfoliata Moric. Agarita. This well known shrub is a native to
all sections of the state with the exception of the pine woods and Gulf
Prairie where it will grow under cultivation. It can be used as a
hedge or specimen plant and is too well known to need further description.
It should be very extensively used for hedges in parks and roadside
work. Commercial. ~ -

Berberis Swazeyi Buckl. Blue Agarita. Native to sections 4A, 4 and 4B.
It very much resembles Agarita and is being used considerably in the
Dallas locality as it gives better results than tripliata in the north central
parts of Texas. The leaves of this plant bear ﬁve leaﬂets and the fruits
are light blue instead of red, as is the case with trifoliata. Commercial.

Persea Borbonia (L.) Spreng. Sweet Bay. This well known shrub, from
which the sweet bay leaves of commerce come, is a native in sections
4B, 1, and 2. The tree is small, and produces coriaceous, dark green
leaves which are fragrant. The ﬂowers are small yellow, being followed
by peculiar pink to purple fruits about one-third of an inch in length.
This tree will grow in the southern parts of sections 4, 4B, and 1 and
in the northern parts of 2 and 3. It should take the place in its section
of some of the introduced small-sized foliage trees.

Persea humilis Nash and Persea pubescens (Pursh) Sarg. These shrub-like
forms of sweet bay are found in sections 5, 6, 4B, 1, 2 and 3, being
abundant along the sea coast. They make excellent hedge plants and
will be good substitutes for many of the green-leafed imported ornamen-
tals.

Podophyllum peltatum L. May Apple. A native of sections 4B, 1, and 2
and will grow anywhere in the state in which shade, moisture and soft
earth are available. It is a very showy and interesting plant. It grows
from heavy underground root stalks. In early spring it puts up a
stem which bears two umbrella-shaped leaves, each about six inches in
diameter. In the axil of the leaves it bears one large poppy-like white
ﬂower which lasts from two to three days. This ﬂower is followed in about

40 BULLETIN NO. 551, TEXAS AGRICULTURAL EXPERIMENT STATION

a month with a yellow plum-shaped fruit aboutone and one-half inches
in diameter. The pulp contained in the fruit is edible but has a strong
medicinal taste. Anyone who wishes an extremely showy and little
known plant should secure "the roots or seed of this one. The Podo-
phyllum of medicine is the pulverized roots of this plant.

Sassafras oﬁicinale Nees and Eberman. Sassafras. Native to sections 4,
4B, 6, and 1 and probably will grow in sections 4A, 2, and parts of 5.
This tree is very interesting, being one of the ﬁrst carried from America
back to Europe. It was supposed to be a new spice. The sassafra-s tea of
literature is made from the roots of this plant. It is a shapely quick-
growing tree with smooth brown bark and light green branches. The leaves
vary in shape from ovate to trilobate. It bears large clusters of small
yellow ﬂowers which are followed by red fruits. Where collections of trees
are maintained or as a single tree in a yard, sassafras should be chosen.

PAPAVERAOEAE

Argemone alba Lestib. White Poppy. Native through the eastern and
southern parts of Texas. It is too well known to need any description.
It is an annual and grows to goodly dimensions. If this plant were
not so common, it would be extensively grown. However it has a place
where one has an abundance of coarse land for which a ﬂoral cover
is needed. The seed of this plant is easily obtained and should be
sown in the fall of the year. It will do well if scattered broadcast with-
out preparation of the soil or covering of the seed. Two other species,
Argemone memioana L. and Argemone sanguinea Greene are native to
section 3. Mexicana is yellow and sanguinea ranges from pink to dark
red. Throughout the habitat of alba, sanguinea and mexica-na should
be sown giving the tri-color effect to a white ﬁeld.

FUMARIACEAE

Oorydal/is aurea Willd. Scrambled Eggs. A low growing annual with fern-
like leaves bearing numerous golden yellow ﬂowers which resemble small
slippers. It is one of the earliest plants to bloom in sections 7A, 4A,
4B, 3, and 5. It does best in sandy soils and where planted will take
care of itself for years. This plant has long been in cultivation. Com-
mercial.

Oorydalis curvisiliqua Engelm. This plant so resembles the above that
they are confused by most people. But it is a larger growing species
and when the two are cultivated they are easily told apart. Curvisi-
liqua blooms earlier and for a longer period of time than the other.
It should be grown by gardeners in sections 3 and 6 and in the southern
parts of 4, 4B, and 2.

Gorydalis m-icrantha (Engelm.) A. Gray. The smallest species of this
group. Its fern-like leaves make it an addition to rock gardens and
small vernal gardens. The perfect ﬂowers of this species are extremely
small and the plant has the habit of bearing cleistogamous ﬂowers which
appear as small colored leaf buds. This habit makes it an interesting
plant to students of botany.

VALUABLE PLANTS NATIVE TO TEXAS 41

Fumaria oﬁicinalis L. Smoke Plant. An introduced plant but in many
places it is used as a bedding plant and in hanging baskets. It has
long feathery green leaves. Its slender branches bearing clusters of
blue-gray colored ﬂowers give it the common name of smoke plant. It
is not common in Texas but is known only from the spinach ﬁelds where
the plant occurs as a weed. It is here given as in ﬂower catalogues,
where it is listed as an ornamental plant.

CRUCIFEREAE

Lesquerella grandiﬂora S. Wats. Field of the Cloth of Gold, Bladder Pod.
There are seventeen species of this genus in Texas, all of them bearing
numerous white or yellow ﬂowers and blooming in early spring. Some
few are perennial but the most showy are annuals. They are also honey
plants. The seed of these species and a few foreign ones are on sale.
All the native species are worthy of cultivation. The seed can be gathered
as the seed capsules are borne on long stems and can easily be stripped.
The seed should be planted in September and October to insure a spring
bloom.

OAPPARIDAOEAE

Oleome serrulata Pursh. Rocky Mountain Honey Plant. A plant exploited
very widely more than twenty years ago as a honey plant. It was sown
over Texas but for some unknown reason did not fulﬁll its recommenda-
tions as a honey plant. It is a tall ragged weed, producing a bunch
of pink ﬂowers. At the present time it is restricted to sections 7 and
7A. Commercial.

Oristatella erosa. N'utt. A very peculiar annual common to all sandy
sections of Texas. From early spring to midsummer it produces large
numbers of yellow ﬂowers. A bed of these plants will be sure to attract
attention. The seed pods are borne on long slim stems making their
collection easy. The seed should be sown in the fall of the year.

   
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
   

l, Wislizenia refracta Engelm. Spectacle Plant, Wild Stocks. Native of

sections 7, 7A, 3, 5, and 6; stout perennial which blooms in early spring
and continues through the summer. It bears a cluster of white stock-
like ﬂowers and so closely resembles the cultivated stock that at a
distance it might be mistaken for a plant of that species. The white
t ﬂowers are followed by two-seeded large ﬂat seed pods which resemble a
y pair of nose glasses, whence the name given by the school child. As
Y» this plant is hardy throughout much of Texas, probably will grow any-
 where,and has possibilities of strain development known by the pink
 and yellow coloring of certain ﬂowers, it is a plant worthy of cultiva-
- tion and experiment.

SARRANCENIACEAE

y Sarracenm Sleldgei MacFarlane. Pitcherplant. This very peculiar beauti-
 ful swamp plant is a native in sections 4B, 1, and 2 and will grow in
f water plantings anywhere in the state. Wherever lily pools, lakes, or
moist conditions are available for planting purposes, a cluster of this
lgrapidly disappearing plant should be grown.

42 BULLETIN NO. 551, TEXAS AGRICULTURAL EXPERIMENT STATION

SAXIFRAGACEAE

Philadelphus serpyllifoliits A. Gray. Syringa. Low-growing shrub of
sections 5 and 6. In early spring this plant bears numerous small white
ﬂowers. It is very close kin to the cultivated syringa of the ﬂoriculturist
but not the syringa of the botanist. This bush is excellent for use in
sections 7A, 4A, and 4, where a low hedge which is composed of ﬂowering
bushes is needed. The plant is common in the Nueces canyon north of
Uvalde.

HAMAMELIDACEAE ~

Hamdmelis virgintana L. Witch Hazel. This tall-growing shrub, which
has the peculiar habit of blooming in the late fall and ripening its fruit
in early spring, is a native to sections 1 and 2. It is grown in sections
4A, 4, 4B, and portions of 5 and will probably grow elsewhere in the state.
It has a curious showy cluster of yellow bloom borne in late October, when
most of the leaves are gone from other shrubs, making it a very spectacular
plant. The witch hazel of commerce comes from a nea-r species. Com-
mercial.

Liquidambaw" Stryraciﬂzta L. Sweet Gum. An ornamental tree native to
sections 4, 4B, 1, and 2. Within the sections where it grows, it is one
of the most abundant of the forest trees. Where planted as a road-
side or yard tree it is excellent, and for avenue planting, it is probably
the best tree found native to Texas. Lts upright manner of growth,
green lobed leaves, and branches with the heavy wings of bark make
it a very sightly tree. It grows rapidly and will give better satisfaction
than most of the native trees used for shade. Commercial.

PLATANACEAE

Platanus occidentalis L. Sycamoie. This well known large-growing tree
is native to almost all sections of the state and its horticultural varie-
ties are to be found in almost every city. The use of the sycamore is
so well known that it is only necessary to suggest its wider use and
the use of plants where dug in the wild or raised in the neighborhood
of the place they are to be used. Commercial.

ROSACEAE

Awnelanchier canadensis (L.) Medic. Serviceberry. A shrub native only
to section 1 but is grown in sections 4A, 4, and 4B. The plant grows
as a bush but resembles a miniature apple tree. In early spring it bears
clusters of showy white ﬂowers having shades of pink. The ﬂowers
are followed in early summer by fruits which are miniature apples in
color, smell and taste. This bush makes a very excellent hedge as it
is showy in spring, summer, and fall, the leaves ‘turning red in autumn.
The berries make an excellent food for birds. Commercial.

Cowanila ericaefolia Torr. and Cozuania Havarrlii S. Wats. Low-growing
shrubs with small, crowded leaves bearing solitary ﬂowers with yellow
petals. The ﬂowers are followed by long feathery tails sometimes two
and one-half inches in length. They are native only in Trans-Pecos

VALUABLE PLANTS NATIVE TO TEXAS 43

Texas but under cultivation will probably give good service in sections
7, 7A, 4A, 3, and 5. They adapt themselves to 10w hedge work. The
young plants are much more ornamental than the older ones, indicating
that the old wood must be occasionally cut from the hedge. These
plants bloom in early spring and the fruits are ornamental throughout
the summer and fall. They are suggested for trial by anyone wishing
an interesting prospect for a new hedge plant.

(Jrataegus Red Haws. Forty-nine species of red haws are known in the
state of Texas. They can be classiﬁed as apple-like trees bearing white
ﬂowers followed by small red apple-like fruits. All of them have a long
life and are easy to keep in shape. When in bloom they are very
ornamental, some of them being- more ornamental in fruit than in
bloom‘. Haw trees should be very largely grown where a few trees
are to be placed in the yard. One of them should be a haw and any
one attempting to grow them should select from those which grow native
in his locality.

Fallugia paradoxa (G. Don.) Endl. Apache Plume. This plant is native to
sections 7, 7A, 5, and 6. It is a shrub which grows to a height of ten
feet or more if protected. It has small divided leaves and bears white
ﬂowers very much resembling a wild rose, so much so that Wild Rose
Pass, north of’ Fort Davis, was named because of the abundance of
this shrub. These ﬂowers are borne in abundance from April through
the summer. Each ﬂower is followed by a group of plumed-tailed fruits
which give the common name of Apache Plume to the plant. It is
grown quite frequently.

Prunus carolintana (Mill.) Ait. Wild Peach. This is a beautiful shiub or
tree, native to sections 1, 2, and a part of 4B. It will grow with care
in sections 3, 4A, and parts of 7A, 3, 4A, 5. It has glossy evergreen
foliage and bears early in the spring an abundance of small inconspicuous
white ﬂowers. These are followed by small blue fruits in Julyand August.
The tree is a beautiful ornamental but cannot endure any great amount of
heat and drought. It has been very abundantly planted throughout the
eastern half of Texas. Commercial.

Prunus mcmicana S. Wats. Wild Plum of eastern Texas which reaches
the dimensions of a forest tree. The leaves are from two to three
inches long and resemble those of the elm. The trees bear an abundance
of white ﬂowers in early spring before any leaves appear in the deciduous
forest. This plum is and should be more widely used in roadside and
park work.

Przmus texczna A. Dietr. Sand Plum or Nerango. A native of sandy sec-
tions of 7A, 4A, 4, 4B, and 3. It does not resemble a plum. It has
very small serrate leaves, bears no thorns, and is the ﬁrst plant to
bloom in the spring. It ripens its fruits in April and May. These
fruits are very similar to apricots both in color and texture. They are
a source of early preserves and make excellent jelly. In some sections
the fruits are so common as to be offered for sale. This plum is easily
obtained by "planting the seeds or digging a seedling in the vicinity of

44 BULLETIN NO. 551, TEXAS AGRICULTURAL EXPERIMENT STATION

the old plants. They commence to bear at two years of age, and because
of their early blooming habits, attractive fruits, and almost evergreen
leaves, they make a very handsome hedge or specimen plant. As they
will grow in almost waste lands, any sandy location should be planted
with this plum. It is a sand binder and also produces marketable
fruit.

Prunus umbellata E1l., var. tarda (Sarg.) Wight. A tree plum growing in
sections 5 and 4. This is an additional tree-sized plum which blooms
before the leaves appear on the tree and should be largely used in
park or roadside work. It will grow anywhere east of San Antonio and
probably anywhere in the state. A single specimen in full bloom in
February when no other plants are attempting to bloom is a wonderful
sight. It is easily grown from the fruits, which are extremely sour
but ornamental, or from water sprouts.

Pyrus arbutifolia (L.) L.f. Red Choke-berry. A beautiful species of the
rose family growing to a height of about ten feet with glossy green
leaves and bearing in early spring clusters of small white to purple
ﬂowers. These are followed by small bright red fruits which are persis-
tent, making this plant an excellent one for hedges, roadside plantings,
or specimen plants. The shrub is native to section 1. Commercial.

Pyrus ioensis (Wood) Bailey, var. tewana (Rehder) Bailey. Texas Grab-
apple. This most beautiful and very little known tree is found in
sections 4B, 1, 5, and probably 4A. It will grow anywhere in the state
where it is protected. It is an apple growing in East Texas to the height
of ﬁfteen to twenty feet. In early spring it bears a wealth of pink
apple ﬂowers and ripens in September a crop of crabapples about three-
fourths of an inch in diameter which are not edible. In the hills of
the Edwards Escarpment, where it occurs, it seldom reaches a height
of six to eight feet but the leaves are more numerous and ﬂowers are
almost red in color. This is one plant that horticulturists should take
up and increase to such an extent that it could be made available for
Iyard planting. It is a beautiful ornamental, recommended to nursery-
men who are interested in making wild plants available to their patrons.

Rosa. There are seventeen species of this genus supposed to be native to
Texas; however with the exception of R. laeviagata Michx., none of the
species is common. Wherever a wild rose is native to the locality of
the grower, it should be planted as it is very probable that the wild
roses will be found to be more tolerant to root rot than those brought
in from other sections or from without the state. R. bractetata Wendl.,
an escape, has become a pest on the Gulf Coast and in the Brazos bottom;
however it has the advantage of being able to take hold and maintain
itself in any kind of a wash, thus being an excellent plant to use in the
repair of deep gulleys in heavily washed soil. A source of excellent
rose stock and of the species that will maintain itself without much
effort exists in the limestone hills around Fredericksburg, Kerrville,
and nearby towns. Plantings were made here nearly seventy-ﬁve years
ago and many of these roses still survive. Where they came from is
unknown, but along the fences they seem to be hardy and can with-
stand considerable cold and much disease.

VALUABLE PLANTS NATIVE TO TEXAS 45

Rubus trivialis Michx. Dewberries. There are four recognized species
and countless varieties of blackberries and dewberries in the state of
Texas. In sections 4, 4B, and 1, there are many introduced species
that have gone wild. There are many varieties of dewberry which

as yet have not been cultivated which will amply repay the nurserymen.

Early forms and ornamental varieties are common with the type in the
low lands of the eastern part of the state.

Vauquelinia angusttfolia Rydb. Small tree belonging to the rose family.
It is only known from Trans-Pecos Texas. It is upright in its manner of
growth and has the most peculiar leaves of any of the rose family.
These are about one-third of an inch in width and three inches long.
Most of them are sickle-shaped and bear a few teeth along the edge.
The plant bears terminal clusters of small white ﬂowers. In its native
habitat the plant is evergreen. Other members of this genus are culti-
vated and it is very probable that this plant which itself is very
attractive will become popular as attempts are made to cultivate it.

LEGUMINOSAE

Acacia amentacea D.C. Black Brush. A tall growing shrub having dark
green typical acacia leaves. It is armed with straight spines about one
inch in length. In early spring the tree is completely covered with
tassels about one inch long of light yellow ﬂowers. These ﬂowers are
followed by thin purple pods which make the tree ornamental. Were
it not for the great abundance of this species in the territory where
it is native, it would be a widely cultivated plant. It will grow anywhere
in central Texas. It prefers sandy soils but will grow in soils mostly
composed of broken rock as is attested by its being more or less common
in section 3. This plant should be used through the southern part of
sections 4, 4B, and 5 in the control of erosion and should be used through
those sections as specimen plants for roadside and park work.

Acacia angustissima (Mill.) Kuntze. Prairie Guajillo. This is a very
beautifulspecies of acacia little known and is seldom used for ornament.
This member of the family does not reach a height of more than three
feet, growing in small clumps in the open prairies and bad lands of
sections 7A, 4A, 4, 4B, 3, 5, and 6. In the southern part of the state
the bush is perennial above the ground. In the northern part it acts
as anannual above the ground. It bears numerous fern-like leaves
and produces through the summer clusters of typical acacia ﬂowers
which are large for the genus and pure white. The plant is easily trans-
planted by root division and easily grown. The plant will well repay
the care given it.

Acacia Berlandieri Benth. Guajillo. The most famous honey plant of
Texas. Found locally in sections 4, 3, 5, and to some extent in 6. It
will grow through the southern half of the state with proper care. It
is a tall-growing shrub with few thorns and bearing fern-like leaves.
It begins to bloom in November, bearing a few clusters of white ﬂowers.
These increase in number until by the middle of March the plant is

.0

46 BULLETIN NO. 551, TEXAS AGRICULTURAL EXPERIMENT STATION

white, so numerous are the ﬂower clusters. The period of the honey
production from this plant is from the middle of March to the last of
April. The honey is water-white and has received the greatest number
of ﬁrst prizes of any honey exhibited. If one wishes to transplant this
shrub from the wild, he must h-unt for seedlings as the roots of the old
plant penetrate the soil so deepl-y that it is next to impossible to trans-
plant them. The easiest way to procure young plants is by collecting
the beans just as soon as they are ripe, which will be in June and
July. The seed should be immediately put into the ground where the
young plants are desired and the ground kept wet for at least a week, at
which time the young plants will appear. These should receive a partial
shade for the ﬁrst year, after which time they will take care of them-
selves. As a specimen plant or hedge, guajillo is decidedly ornamental.

Acacia Farnesiana (L.) Willd. Huisache. This tree needs no comment. It
is a native to sections 4, 4B, 2, 3, and 5. It is increasing in numbers
materially and is emigrating northeastward. There should be increased
plantings through the southern half of Texas. Commercial.

Acacia Greggti A. Gray. Long-flowered catscla-yv. One of the best honey
plants in the state. It is native to sections 7, 4, 4B, 3, 5, and 6. In
the eastern part of its habitat it is a low-growing bush extremely thorny
and producing a profusion of yellow tassels as ﬂowers in April and
May. In the western part of its home, it grows both as a shrub and a
small tree. Because of its armament it is hardly wise to cultivate such
a plant, yet if one wants a hedge which will be beautiful and stop any-
thing, this plant will do the work. There are thousands of acres of
almost worthless land which if planted to this shrub would become
honey producing and at the same time this leguminous shrub would
break up and improve the soil. l

Acacia Roemeriaata Scheele. Round-ﬂowered Catsclaw. A native of sections
7A, 4A, 4, 3, 5, and 6. In most sections this is a small round-topped
tree with typical acacia leaves. In early spring it is covered with yellow-
ish green round acacia ﬂowers which are followed by red seed pods.
This acacia has but few thorns. It is quite largely planted. Commercial.

Acacia tortuosa (L.) Willd. Huisachillo. A plant which is confused
with Huisache. The following differences help in the identiﬁcation of
the plants in the ﬁeld. Huisachillo has smooth greenish brown bark
and lemon yellow ﬂowers, and blooms earlier than Huisache, which has
red brown bark and golden yellow ﬂowers. Huisachillo is generally a
shrub-like plant or tree, whereas Huisache produces strong straight stems
and becomes a good sized tree. The seed pods deﬁnitely separate the
trees. The pod of Huisache is black and smooth on the outside. The
seed pod of Huisachillo is about ﬁve inches long, much resembling the
pod of a snap bean, and is covered with coarse wool which persists after
the bean pod has fallen from the tree. Huisachillo is a honey plant
while Huisache is only a pollen plant. For a specimen plant or back-
ground Huisachillo should ‘be used.

VALUABLE PLANTS NATIVE TO TEXAS 47

Acacia Wrightii Benth. Tree Catsclaw. Native to sections 3, 5, 6, and
parts of 7 and 7A; however it is growing under cultivation in 4A, 4,
and 4B. I11 some sections this acacia grows as a shrub but generally
it grows as la tree up to thirty feet in height and ten inches in diameter.
The ﬂowers occur in May and are produced abundantly. The clusters
are about three inches long with the ﬂowers pure white. It is a good
honey plant and a most excellent ornamental tree. It has few thorns.
It can be transplanted or can be grown from seed.

Amorpha ccmescens (Nutt.) Pursh. Lead Plant. A peculiar legume reach-
ing its southern limitsnin sections 1 and 3, which probably will grow in
the northern parts of 4, 4B, and 1. It is a short-stemmed perennial
bearing very numerous small leaﬂets. During the summer it bears
long spikes of small purple pink ﬂowers. The leaves are lead colored; how-
ever it received the name of lead plant from the fact that it was used
as an indicator of the occurrence of lead ore in the days when Galena,
Illinois was the greatest lead producing town in the world.

Amorpha firuticosa L. var. augustifolia Pursh. Wild Indigo Bush. A
shrub found growing in wet meadows or along the edges of Water courses.
Through the entire summer it bears long spikes of purple ﬂowers which
are increased in their coloration by the fact that the stamens are orange
colored. This shrub will grow anywhere in Texas and should be largely
used where moist locations or water is available. For roadside planting
this cannot be excelled where the road crosses water courses. '

Amphicarpa bracteata (L.) Fernald var. Oomosa (L.) Fernald. Hog Pea-
nut. In Texas a native of sandy parts of sections 4, 4B, 2, and 3. This is a
perennial arising from a heavy root stalk. It produces vine-like stems which
reach a length of four to ﬁve feet. It is dark green in color and the leaves are
sufficiently coriaceous to stand up without shade during the heat of summer.
Following rains this plant produces two kinds of ﬂowers, one which is
a typical purple legume and borne in clusters above the leaves, which
in time give way to pods about three inches long; the other ﬂowers are
very small and white, the peduncle on which they are borne elongating
drives the ﬂowering point deep into the soil where a peanut-like pod is
formed which contains two seeds. This plant is a curiosity. It can
be grown in a hanging basket, and in the shade of the leaves below the
basket will very often produce the peanut-like fruits in the darkness
of the protecting leaves, while on the outside of the cluster the aerial
ﬂowers will produce pods. This plant likewise should be grown through-
out the blow sand regions of Texas as it is an excellent sand binder.

Astragalus Earle-i Greene. Narrow-leafed Loco. One of the common loco
plants of section 6. It will also grow in sections 7A, 7, 3, and 5. As
an ornamental this loco has many things to recommend it. It produces
a heavy rosette of gray green leaves. Through the summer it sends
up shoots of small purple Astragalus ﬂowers. It is a perennial and as
a specimen plant or a border plant it will give excellent service.

 

48 BULLETIN NO. 551, TEXAS AGRICULTURAL EXPERIMENT STATION

Astragalus memicanus A. DC. Mexican Ground Plum. This plant is common
0n limestone soils throughout the central part of Texas and Will grow
almost anywhere that it is planted. Its seed pods are about the size of
the common cultivated plum, green in color, and before the pods ripen,
are succulent. It is used by the Mexican as an article of food and in
Texas during the early days it was a life saver for many communities.
It is a perennial, can be easily transplanted by root divisions, and is
an excellent ornamental, as it is one of the ﬁrst wild plants to bloom
in the spring. Flowers are creamy white and borne in large spikes
which lie ﬂat on the ground.

Astragalus ntollissimus Torr. Loco Weed. Not uncommon in sections 7,
7A, and parts of 5; however it can be grown anywhere in the state.
It is the best known loco weed. It grows from a strong perennial root
stalk and bears a large rosette of green leaves. Throughout the summer
season it puts up large spikes of red purple ﬂowers. For a specimen
plant or for a border this plant will repay the trouble taken in securing
and cultivating it. Contrary to common belief-these plants are slow
in spreading and are easily controlled.

All members of the genus Astragalus are worthy of cultivation. It
is perennial, can be transplanted easily, and bears numerous white to
purple ﬂowers. If one wishes to start a wild garden, this genus offers
great opportunity.

Baptisia Zeucantha T. and G. Wild Indigo. Native of sections 4A, 4, 4B,
1, and 2. The genus Baptisia is one much neglected by ﬂoriculturists.
All of the species produced in early spring a caudex about one foot long
which bears two or three long divided leaves and a cluster of yellow
or white bean-like ﬂowers. In this species, whose home is in sandy
soils, its clusters of yellow ﬂowers much resemble the clusters of Wisteria.
Other species worthy of cultivation are B. Zeucophaela Nutt., B. sphaerocarpa
Nutt, and B. Nuttalltlana Small. These are commonly confused and all go
by the same common name. While they do their best in sandy soils, they
are very common in clay, gravel, and even on rocky hill sides. They
come from a perennial root stalk which can be transplanted.

Cassia Lindheimeriana Scheele. Lindheimer’s Cassia. Common to all
of the state outside of the pinery woods and Gulf Coast. This plant is
annual above ground. It produces strong growing stalks up to ﬁve feet
in height which bear many pinnately divided leaves that are covered
with gray wool. In the latter part of summer it produces a great abun-
dance of golden yellow Cassia ﬂowers almost one inch in diameter. For
a specimen plant, a hedge, or a background this plant is most useful.

Cassia pumilio A. Gray. Native to sections 7, 7A, 4A, 4, 4B, 3, 5, and
6. It is a peculiar plant and known to but few people. The plant above
the ground consists of two lanceolate leaves, the caudex seldom appear-
ing above the soil. A stem arises from between the leaves and produces
yellow and black marked ﬂowers about three-fourths of an inch in
diameter. Because of the supposed resemblance this ﬂower is called
buttercup and yellow violet, but the ﬂower is a deﬁnite cassia ﬂower,

VALUABLE PLANTS NATIVE TO TEXAS 49

and has an underground heavy root stalk which goes down to a distance
of six or eight inches where a series of heavy tubers exists. This
ability of the plant to store moisture makes it one of the few plants
that can bloom on scheduled time every year. This plant should ﬁnd
a place in every rock garden.

Cassia Roemeriavza Scheele. Roemer’s Cassia. Native of sections 7A, 4,
4B, 3, and 5. It has an underground root stalk, and in summer pro-
duces stems twelve to twenty inches in height, bearing green lanceolate
leaves which occur in pairs. It produces throughout the summer large
numbers of golden cassia ﬂowers. As a low-growing border plant or
as a center for a bed where yellow ﬂowers are constantly needed, this
is valuable.

Cassia occidentalis L. Coffee Senna. An annual, tall-growing member of
the genus. It is found native in sections 4, 4B, 1, 2, and 3 and is
generally considered a Weed. However it is valuable in sandy sections
and when sown in early winter will maintain itself and act as a sand
binder throughout the winter and following summer. It can stand any
amount of heat and drought. It is quite beautiful with its dark green
leaves and large yellow ﬂowers. Folk-lore has it that this plant was
introduced many Iyears ago as a substitute for coffee. To those who
wish to plant to attract butterﬂies, this is ideal as it is the food plant
for most of the large yellow species which will be attracted to it abun-
dantly.

Cassia Tora L. Sickle Senna. A most common weed throughout sections
4B, 1, and 2. A single plant grown by itself is beautiful. It bears
delicate leaves and large bright yellow ﬂowers one inch in diameter
which are followed by curious sickle-shaped pods. Through the sandy
portions of its habitat, it is the most common weed. Its vigorous growth
and liking for sandy soil indicate that this plant should be utilized
as a green manure crop. It bears as many nodules as any cultivated
legume. In sections where it grows abundantly it should be turned under
about the ﬁrst of July. A second crop will appear shortly and this
should be turned under at the common bedding time around Christmas.
This will give two green manure crops within one year. At the same
time this will probably reduce the numbers of the most common weed.

Centrosema virginianum. Benth. Gulf Coast Pea. A very attractive
climbing vine common on the Gulf Coast. It is a perennial from a
heavy root stalk. It bears a purple ﬂower somewhat resembling a sweet
pea which is borne in some numbers at the ends of the branches. They
are followed by pods from three to six inches long bearing many seeds.
The plant can be raised from the seed or transplanted by root division.
As it is a perennial it should be used in sections 4, 4B, 2, and 3, and
the eastern parts of section 5.

Cercidium macrmn Johnston. Palo Verde. Found in sections 3, 5, and 6
but will grow anywhere in Texas as far north as Austin. This small tree
with its dark green bark, very small leaﬂets, and clusters of yellow
ﬂowers through the summer makes an attractive hedge or specimen
plant. C. Macrum does not bear as many thorns as C. texana. The plant
is easily grown from seed.

50 BULLETIN NO. 551, TEXAS AGRICULTURAL EXPERIMENT STATION

Oercidium tewana A. Gray. Plant very much resembles the last but is
more shrub-like. In places it covers a large amount of territory. It
bears numerous thorns. The bark isgreenish yellow and the ﬂowers
yellow. It is said to be a honey plant. Easily grown from seed.

Oercis canadensis L. Eastern Redbud. A shrub or small tree the bark of
which is red. The leaves are heart-shaped, smooth, and dark green.
The stems generally rise from a common root-stalk, bear few branches,
and bend from the common center. In very early spring the stems
of this plant bear numerous dark red, small pea-shaped ﬂowers in
large clusters. These ﬂowers which appear as buds that never open give
the name to the plant. The ﬂowers are followed by clusters of red
pods which are also ornamental. This species occurs in sections 4,
4B, 1, 2, and parts of 3 but it will grow anywhere it is planted. It
makes a ﬁne ornamental because of its color and the time at which it
blooms. Commercial.

Gercis occidentalis Torr. Mountain Redbud. This is a plant similar to
the last except that it grows as a small tree but with many branches
from a common trunk. The leaves are very similar and the ﬂowers,
while borne in a similar manner, open and are very bright red. This
tree can be transplanted from the wild or raised from the seed. Though
it is a native of sections 4A and 5, it can be transplanted and raised any-
where. It should be quite largely used in parks and for roadside work
wherever limestone or other rock ridges occur. Commercial.

(Jlitoria ntariana L. Butterﬂy Pea. An annual vine arising from a heavy
perennial root stalk. The stems are green and wire-like growing to
a height of four or ﬁve feet. In the axils of the light green leaves
is produced a large and most beautiful butterﬂy-shaped ﬂower. The
ﬂower is pink and is produced from early spring until frost. This plant
should be very frequently used as specimen plant in yards and parks. A
single tuber will produce suﬂicient vine to cover at least ten feet of
space. The plants may be procured by digging from the wild or can
be grown from seed. Commercial.

Cottrsetia aacillaris Coult. and Rose. Baby Bonnets. A leguminous shrub
found only in section 3 but ca-n be grown in the sandy parts of 4, 4B,
and 2. A low-growing unarmed bush bearing small light green leaﬂets.
Throughout spring and summer the stems of this plant are covered with
numerous smallywhite and pink, pea-shaped ﬂowers. From previous
success in transplanting it, and its performance under "cultivation, this
will doubtless become a common cultivated shrub in the sandy lands
of Texas.

Dalea frutcsccns A. Gray. A low-growing perennial shrub bearing thick
clusters of very small divided leaves and covered during the most of
the summer with very numerous red and white pea-shaped ﬂowers. This
bush is a native of sections 7A, 7, 4A, 4, 4B, 5, 6, and the northern part
of section 3. The plant is attractive, and can be transplanted from the
wild as well as grown from seed, or from cuttings. Cultivated, it is
much larger than in the wild.

VALUABLE PLANTS NATIVE TO TEXAS 51

Dalea nana Torr. A plant much confused with the one above. Native to
every section of the state and can be procured more easily than D. frutescens.
The ﬂowers are white and the seed pods which follow are probably
more showy than the ﬂowers. This genus has many other species all
of which are worthy of cultivation. The ease with which this genus
can be transplanted and the fact that it can be grown from cuttings
should make it popular.

Desmodium bracteosum (Michx.) DC. A very showy plant belonging to
the genus which includes all of the tick-trefoils. The plant is annual
aboveground, from a heavy perennial root stalk. Aboveground it
consists of a long peduncle red in color which bears two or three foliate
leaves. From the axils of the leaves come the ﬂower stalks which are
from six inches to one foot in length. These bear from ﬁfteen to twenty
large purple bean ﬂowers which are followed by quite large ﬂat pods
armed with hooked bristles, giving the name of Beggar Ticks to this
plant. As an oddity or for a planting where natural landscaping is
practiced, this plant is excellent. There are nineteen other species of
this genus in the state ranging from very small growing forms with
small ﬂowers up to the one described. Any one of them is worthy of
a place in landscape work.

Erythrina herbacea L. Coral Bean. A native of sections 4, 4B, 1, and 3 and
will grow anywhere in the state. The plant must have soft soils in which
to grow. It is an annual aboveground rising from a very heavy tuber. In
early spring a single red peduncle, which will grow as high as four feet,
arises from the tuber. This bears from twenty to ﬁfty red ﬂowers that
are about one-fourth of an inch in diameter and on some plants at least
two inches long. The shape of the ﬂowers gives a colloquial name of
Firecracker Plant to this species. The ﬂowers are followed by brown bean
pods which always extend at right angles to the main stem. The pods
have constrictions between the beans. When ripe the pod opens, expos-
ing the coral red beans, which remain fastened to the pod until the
accidents of winter break down the dead plants. The plant itself comes
up after the ﬂower stalks. It consists of a herbaceous stem bearing
a large divided leaf and occasionally a few thorns. The plant is bright
green and makes an excellent ornament. The plant is most easily
obtained by digging and transplanting the tubers; however the plants can
be grown from the seed. It requires three years from the seed to the
ﬁrst bloom. Growing in a narrow strip along the Gulf Coast and on
Padre Islinzl is another species known a-s E. arborea (Chapm.) Small,

ree Coral Bean. It is doubtful if this species can be grown very far from
salt water, though it is worth a trial. The tree grows from a heavy under-
ground root stalk rather than from a tuber. The bark is light green, the
trunk of the tree being two inches in diameter and twenty feet high and
bearing spikes of red ﬂowers in the axils of the leaves. This species blooms
after rains throughout the summer.

Eysenharrlt/ia texana Scheele. Rock Brush. A shrub or small tree native
to sections 4A, 4, and 4B and will grow anywhere in the state. The
plant is unarmed, and. has gray bark and numerous small pinnately
divided leaves. In the spring, again in the early fall, and sometimes

52 BULLETIN NO. 551, TEXAS AGRICULTURAL EXPERIMENT STATION

after rains this shrub puts out an abundance of small white ﬂowers which
are very aromatic. The bloom lasts for about ten days. This plant is
very often confused with Lippia ligustrina, White Brush. Rock Brush is
easily transplanted and just as easily grown from seed. It deserves a
place as a hedge plant and in individual plantings. Commercial.

Gleditsia aquatica Marsh. Water Locust. Native to sections 4B, 1, and
2. It will grow along water courses in sections 7A, 4A, 3, and 5. A
small tree with smooth gray bark and pinnately divided leaves, it bears
in spring clusters of small yellow ﬂowers which are followed by one-
seeded bean pods. This plant has the ability to grow in lands that
are too marshy for other trees. This tree should be planted through
East Texas on roadside work, as it will grow along the edges of swamps
and water courses where variety of species is needed.

Gledivtsia teoccma Sarg. Texas Locust. A tall-growing honey locust native
to sections 4, 4B, and 2, and occasionally found in other sections of
the state. Differing from honey locust, it bears no thorns or sometimes
a few. The foliage is similar but one will ﬁnd pinnate and bipinnate
divisions with the same leaves. This does not occur in honey locust.
Its numerous yellow inconspicuous ﬂowers are followed by long glossy
brown pods. This tree should be planted through sections 7A, 4A, 4,
4B, 1, and 3.

Gleditsia triacanthos L. Honey Locust. This locust with the long brown
bean pods and extremely large thorns needs no introduction. It has
long been used as an ornamental and deserves a place where collections
of trees or specimen plants are grown.

Glycyrrhiza Zepidota Nutt. Licorice Root. Native of sections 4, 6, and 7
but will grow anywhere. The plant is herbaceous aboveground, grows
to a height of three to four feet, is covered with numerous pinnate
leaves, and bears clusters of white leguminous ﬂowers. These are
followed by clusters of very curiously twisted seed pods which are
covered with spikes. It will grow in shady, damp locations where
other plants cannot be raised. For this purpose it is very desirable
especially where one has a large variety of places to landscape. The
plant attracts attention throughout the year because it is little known
and is quite different from any common plant.

H oﬁmanseggia densiﬂora Benth. A very common plant through the whole
of Texas yet it does not seem to have a common name. The plant
appears above ground as three or four feathery pinnate leaves rising
to a height of two to three inches. Throughout the summer this small
plant produces spikes of numerous yellow red ﬂowers which are followed
by small bean pods. Underground the root system consists of numerous
small black tubers which enable the plant to store up suiﬁcient moisture to
bloom through the dry summer without rain. This fact makes Hoﬁman-
seggia a very valuable plant for roadside work especially in the plains

VALUABLE PLANTS NATIVE TO TEXAS 53

country. All that is needed to produce a bloom is to run the grader over
the side of the road, removing the dead vegetation. These plants
will immediately come into bloom. The plant is easily propagated by
the sowing of seed. For a bed plant or border plant there is no better.

Indigofera miniata Ort. A gray green prostrate vine growing from a per-
ennial root stalk. It bears salmon-colored ﬂowers throughout the sum?
mer. It will grow anywhere in Texas but prefers sandy soils. For
a ground cover to prevent blowing sands, or to produce forage there
is no better plant. Wherever blow sands are encountered, this vine
should be one of the plants used for erosion control.

Indigofera suﬂruticosa Mill. A strong growing herb found throughout
Texas. In the southern part it is shrub-like and in the northern part
acts as an annual above ground. It grows most abundantly in sandy
soils where it will become the dominant plant if not opposed. It is
a legume and produces large numbers of nodules. As it will grow in
the poorest of sandy soil and by its massed roots will prevent blowing,
this plant should recommend itself to anyone attempting to control
blowing sands. It is somewhat ornamental as it bears through most of
the summer small spikes of very peculiarly colored bean ﬂowers.

Krameria secundiﬂora DC. Native of all of the state with the exception
of sections 2 and 3. An herbaceous plant from a heavy underground
stem, the branches grow to a length of two or three feet. The leaves
are lanceolate and gray green in color. The plant bears numerous
peculiarly constructed red ﬂowers. As it grows ﬂat on the ground with
the branches radiating from their point of origin and is adorned with
these ﬂowers, it is a ﬁne plant where sod or ﬂower beds have not as yet
been established. It is here included with the legumes for convenience.
As the seed pods are angled, the vine is sometimes confused with the
puncture plant.

Lespedeza prairea (Mack. and Bush) Britton. Prairie Clover. Native of
sections 4, 4B, 1, and 5. A legume that has much promise as a long-time
ornamental. The plant grows from a cluster of heavy root stalks. In
early spring it sends up a number of straight-growing stems which bear
trifoliate leaves. When the stems reach a height of from ten to ﬁfteen
inches, a cluster of bright pink-shaped ﬂowers are produced in a head
rather than a spike. These clusters continue to bloom for a period of
several weeks, making this plant a very showy one. This is best in
sandy lands but will grow anywhere in the state. As it is a perennial
and can stand considerable drought, it is recommended for planting as
a miniature hedge or border plant.

Lespedeza Stuvei Nutt. Tall Bush Clover. This species is similar to the
above but produces only a few stems from each root cluster. These will
grow to a height of six to seven feet and produce a head of purple
ﬂowers about one and one-half inches in diameter. These last for a
period of two months. As a specimen plant anywhere, this will attract

54 BULLETIN NO. 551, TEXAS AGRICULTURAL EXPERIMENT STATION

attention. While its habitat is sandy soils, it will grow almost anywhere.
It can be used to good effect where one wishes to form a temporary
arch of plants. There are ten other species of Lespedeza, all of which
are called Bush Clover, do their best in sandy soils, and are valuable as
sand binders or foragej

Leucaena pulverulenta (Schlecht.) Benth. Tepehuaje. Native of the Gulf
Coast of section 3 and the Rio Grande Valley. In the northern parts
of its habitat it grows as a shrub. The bark is gray and covered with
a powdery white substance. The leaves are ﬁnely divided, giving the
tree the appearance of a huge fern. The ﬂowers are borne in white
heads about one inch in diameter. These are followed by thin seed pods
which grow to the extreme length of ten to twelve inches. In the Lower
Rio Grande Valley this plant becomes a tree of two feet or more in
diameter and reaches a height of thirty to forty feet. It belongs to
the tropical regions and whether it will grow outside of section 3 is
doubtful. It, however, should be used very largely in plantings in the
Lower Valley and seacoast towns.

Leucaena retusa Benth. A small leguminous tree without thorns which
bears numerous yellow ﬂowers in early spring. These ﬂowers are
gathered together in heads about one and one-half inches in diameter.
These are followed by clusters of ﬂat bean pods from eight to ten inches
in length. This tree is found in section 5 and to some extent in sections
6 and 4A. The tree is little known as it is a member of the live oak
motte association Where the trees are hidden. Few people even in
the country where it is common know of it; hence it has no common
name. It is a favorite browse plant with cattle which accounts for the
reason that the surviving members are protected by the oak mottes.
Because of the beauty of the foliage, the peculiar ﬂowers, and seed
clusters, this tree should be made available to the public by some nur-
sery. Besides its habitat it will grow in sections 7, 7A, 4, 4B, and 3.

Lupinus Ha/uardii S. Wats. Chisos Mountain Bluebonnet. The largest
growing member of the bluebonnet group in Texas. It grows to _a
height of about two feet, produces long spikes of light blue ﬂowers
tinged with purple. Though it is very common during the spring of
the year in section 6 and is now growing in cultivation in sections 4, 3,
and 5, it probably will do Well elsewhere, or is worthy of a trial. The
seed should be obtained shortly after they ripen as the pods are explosive.

Lupinus pcrenvzis L. forma roseus Britton. While this is a misnomer the
name is retained as it is explanatory. The plant is very similar to
the common bluebonnet but is pink in color. It is perennial and is
found in a very few locations in section 6 but is grown in cultivation
in sections 4, 4B, and 2. It is easily propagated from the seed. Attempts
should be made to cultivate this plant in yards or parks wherever
shade and moisture are available.

Lupinus subcamosets Hook. The sandy land bluebonnets. Native of
sections 4, 4B, 1, and 3. This bluebonnet, which seldom branches, is
a native of sandy lands of East Texas. The ﬂowers are light blue and
develop red splotches after opening. According to the‘ law, this is

VALUABLE PLANTS NATIVE TO TEXAS 55

the State Flower of Texas; however the next species is the one which
was intended by the author of the bill. The sandy land bluebonnet
can be raised on any soil and anywhere in Texas. It, however, is not
as proliﬁc as the next species.

Lupinus tewensis Hook. The rock or purple bluebonnet. The State
Flower of Texas. Too well known to need any description or any infor-
mation as to its cultivation; however it is to be said that the seed should
be put into the ground just as soon as possible after they ripen.

llledicago arabica (L.) Huds. Spotted Bur Clover. This well-known
introduced plant, which is so well marked by the red spot in the center
of each leaf, is sufficiently ornamental to grow in those sections where
cultivation is necessary. On most of the sandy lands of Texas, if this
plant is seeded in the fall, during the late winter, or early spring, it
will make a large growth which is of great value to turn under as a
fertilizer or for cattle and poultry feed. This plant should be grown
in large quantities on sandy soils.

Medicago hispida Gaertn. Bur Clover. Common Bur Clover has become
native to all of the sandy regions east of San Antonio and will grow
anywhere in the state where some moisture is available. As a winter
pasture plant, as a cover to protect soils from blowing or washing, and
as a green manure crop, this plant is valuable. It should be planted in
the early fall wherever loose sandy soils occur. It is also recommended
because its growth period is from mid-winter until early spring, at
which time it disappears. It can be planted in pastures where perennials
give the feed during the summer months and will not in any way inter-
fere with them. It can be planted in cultivated ﬁelds as it can be
sown, will make its growth, and can be turned under, in time for any
common crop.

Zlledicago sativa L. Alfalfa. This forage plant is Well known in Texas.‘
It, however, has many qualities which make it valuable as an ornamental.
If it is not cut, it will continue to bloom for most of the summer. Its
green foliage and the purple ﬂowers are greatly admired even by th-ose
who are used to seeing it where it is grown in quantity. For specimen
plants or as wind breaks for fragile annuals, alfalfa makes an ideal
plant.

Melilotus alba Desv. White Sweet Clover. Annual, though its variety
Hubam Clover is better known. Hubam has the ability to grow in the
poorest of soils. About its only limiting factors are heat and drought.
It is found growing in all of the state. It will ﬁll the place of a cover crop.
In Texas it should be sown in October. It will start blooming in March and
will continue to bloom until the middle of July, at which time it should be
removed from the land. It will drop suﬁicient seed for a crop for the next
year. A stretch of sweet clover in full bloom is a mass of ﬂowers which give
oﬁ a perfume that will be long remembered. This is one of the best
honey plants, and where roadside plantings of this ornamental super-
sede Weeds and other undesirable plants the soils and the bees will
beneﬁt by the planting.

56 BULLETIN NO. 551, TEXAS AGRICULTURAL EXPERIMENT STATION

Melilotus indica (L.) All. Indian Yellow Clover. A low-growing yellow
ﬂowered sweet clover. A plant said to have been introduced into the
United States through the port of Galveston, it is upright, bearing
numerous spikes of yellow bean ﬂowers. It is a honey plant but because

_ it grows luxuriantly and is through blooming in early spring, makes

it a plant for soil improvement. It can be sown in the late fall and
plowed under by the middle of the next March.

Melilotus ojﬁcinalis (L.) Lam. Yellow Sweet Clover. This plant has been
introduced sparingly into the state. It bears the largest ﬂowers of any
of the genus but is not so proliﬁc as Indian clover. Where it will
grow, it should be planted. It is a good honey plant and also can be
recommended for forage and soils improvement.

Mimosa biunc/ifera Benth. Catsclaw. Native to all parts of Texas save the
piney woods and Gulf Coast. It is a typical mimosa growing to a
height of four feet, quite heavily armed, and covered with large numbers
of leaves. The ﬂowers are light yellow, and the pods which are borne
in clusters are covered with thorns. For a plant to be used as a sand
binder and for forage this species is one of the'best, as nature has
long used it for that purpose. The plant is also useful as an ornamental
where a low hedge which will turn livestock is needed.

Zlfimosa fmgrans A. Gray. A native throughout the northwestern part of
the state but will grow in sections 4, 4B, and parts of 3. This is a
low-growing mimosa which is partial to limestone soils and bears in
early spring large numbers of clustered pink ﬂowers which carry an
abundant perfume. The plant is ideal for park or roadside plantings,
and where an ornamental is needed which will protect itself against
depredators.

Mimosa Wootoni Standl. Vine Mimosa. A vine having deﬁnite mimosa
ﬂowers, fruits, and leaves. Native to section 3 and will probably grow
in sections 4, 4B, and 5 where it can be used to great advantage as a
specimen vine. The stems which reach a diameter of approximately
one-third of an inch attain a length of from twenty to thirty feet. The
plant is covered with strong, curved green thorns and fern-like leaves,
peculiar in shape and structure. In May and June the upper third of
the vine bears large clusters of creamy white spikes of ﬂowers which
are followed by as large clusters of curved, ﬂat bean pods. As an
oddity or specimen plant this is one of the best. It can be transplanted
from the wild with ease. It is available anywhere along the Gulf Coast
through the central part of section 8.

Neptunia lutea (Leavenw.) Benth. Yellow Sensitive Briar. The genus
Neptunia is a peculiar mixture. The vines resemble a prostrate Cassia
while the ﬂowers very much resemble Mimosa. It is a perennial and
will grow in any sandy or moist soil. It is a ﬁne cover for places which
are submerged part of the year and are mud ﬂats at other times. As
a sand binder this plant is unique in that it forms a solid mat of'green
leaves and yellow ﬂowers throughout the entire growing season. It
is one of the best plants for thispurpose occurring in. central Texas.
The plant can be grown from seed or by root division.

VALUABLE PLANTS NATIVE TO TEXAS 57

Parkinsonia aculeata L. Retama. This well known plant in many portions
of the Gulf Coast is looked upon as a weed and in many others as a
most desirable ornamental. Where it occurs in quantity it is a good
honey plant. Its green stems and abundant yellow ﬂowers, which are
borne through the summer, make it desirable as an ornamental. It
is a native of Texas south of San Antonio but will grow anywhere in the
state. Its long peculiarly shaped leaves, its smooth green bark, and
abundant ﬂowers make it desirable. Commercial,

Petalostemum microphyllum (T. and G.) Heller. The small-leafed
Petalostemum. Biennial or perennial; growing in sandy soils in sections
4, 4B, 2, and 3 but will grow anywhere in the state Where soft soils and
moisture occur. This plant bears numerous small green leaves, reaches
a height of some three feet, and bears large clustered spikes of small
white ﬂowers which are very fragrant. As a sand binder and for soil
improvement, there can be no better plant. Throughout the sand sections
of the Gulf Coast and the Rio Grande Plains during certain years, this
plant grows very profusely. As it produces nitrogen nodules and is
easily grown, this plant should recommend itself to those desiring a
plant for soil improvement. A few specimen plants make an addition
to any garden or collection of plants.

Petalostemum obovatum T. and G. Pussyfoot. Annual or biennial. A most
peculiar and spectacular plant. Its stem rises to a height of about one
foot where it branches. The leaves are covered with gray wool and
the ﬂowering spikes are very large, about one inch in diameter and
sometimes three to four inches long. At the time .the plant is in
bloom the tips of the yellow petals can be seen protruding between the
almost white bracts which make up the spikes. This is a plant which
can be raised in any part of Texas where there are soft soils and some
moisture. It is a native of sandy portions of sections 4A, 4, 4B, and 3.
The genus Petalostemum contains twenty-two species. As a genus they
are spoken of as Prairie Clover. They range from annuals to thick-
rooted perennials. All of them are adapted to cultivation. When they
are of use as ornamentals Where backgrounds and roadside Work are
desired, they are of considerable value because they can take care of
themselves. The species growing native to the places where they are to
be used should be the ones selected.

Pithecolobium brevifolium Benth. Gulf Coast Guajillo. A tall-growing
evergreen shrub in extreme southern Texas and growing as far north
along the Gulf Shore as Corpus Christi. In very early spring it is
covered with clusters of ﬂowers which are followed by straight bean
pods. The plant is armed with numerous spines about one-half inch
in length. In many places along the Gulf Coast it has been used as an
ornamental. It is doubtful if it will grow outside sections 2 and 3,
but the plant is of suﬂicient merit "to warrant its trial by experimenters.
This plant must not be confused with the prairie Guajillo. ~

Pithecolobium ﬂexicaule (Benth.) Coulter. Ebony. A leguminous tree
extending along the Gulf Coast from the tropics as far north as Corpus

5 Christi. The tree has very dark green foliage and numerous cream-colored
. ﬂowers in early spring. which are followed by sickle-shaped thick pods. The

58 BULLETIN NO.,55l, TEXAS AGRICULTURAL EXPERIMENT STATION

pods are never dropped from the tree, giving an old tree a very peculiar
appearance. The plant is of slow growth, protected by many thorns
in its youth though in old age thorns are no longer developed. Along
the Rio Grande the tree reaches a diameter of two feet and a height
of thirty feet. In the Corpus country it reaches a diameter of two or
three inches and a height of ten to twelve feet. This tree should be
planted through the Gulf Coast country and on the contiguous parts
of other areas. It is known that it will grow as far north as San Marcos.
The tree is a beautiful ornamental and of slow growth. The wood is
black and very similar to the ebony of commerce.

Poinciana Gilliesii Hook. Bird of Paradise Flower. The common Poinciana
in cultivation in the southern part of the state of Texas, native to
section 6. The bush will grow anywhere within the state. Under proper
care it assumes the dimension of a small tree. To keep the plant in
bloom through the summer and to make a ﬁne shrub, the old wood
should be removed. This will insure large and numerous clusters of
ﬂowers. As the bloom is terminal, the more new wood the greater the
opportunity for ﬂowers.

Prosopis chilensis (Molina) Stuntz. Common Mesquite of Texas. This
name must supersede glandulosa and juliﬂora because of priority. This
tree and its uses need no introduction. Where the tree is dominant and
is to be used in landscaping, the old tree should be allowed to stand,
but needs to be trimmed up and the unsightly ones gradually removed
as the younger and more nearly straight trees reach suﬂicient size to
supply the shade needed. The mesquite should be the state tree of
Texas as it is now dominant except in a few areas.

Prosopis C'i’IZC’l’(Z8C67?8 A. Gray. Screw Bean. This is a miniature tree
found in great abundance near to the waters of the Lower_Rio Grande
and Laguna Madre. The tree grows in the Spartina ﬂats and is over-
topped by the grasses. It grows to a height of eight to ten inches. It
is tree-like in shape, and bears small clusters of lavender colored mimosa-
like ﬂowers which are followed by several tightly coiled beans resembl-
ing wood screws. This plant has long been confused with the last
species and many people have hunted for a tree resembling a mesquite
on the Gulf Coast from which the screw beans found along the roadsides
and in water courses came. Few even of those reared in the sections where
the plant grows are acquainted with it. This dwarf tree will grow any-

where along the Gulf Coast. It can be transplanted or can be grown

from seed. For a rock garden or pot plant this is unique. Even when
growing as a pot plant it will bloom and produce its curious seed pods.

PTOSOpiS pubescens Benth. Tornillo. A tree similar to mesquite which
grows only in section 6. It will, however, grow anywhere that mesquite
grows if planted. ‘With some protection this tree should do well as
far north as Dallas. F01‘ parks and arboretums this tree should be
included.

VALUABLE PLANTS NATIVE TO TEXAS 59

Psoralea esculenta Pursh. India-n Plant Root. There are nineteen species
of this genus in the state of Texas. The plant resembles the lupines.
It is perennial and arises from tubers. The leaves of the plant resemble
more the print 0f a dog’s foot than the leaves of the lupine which was
named because 0f the resemblance of that foot to the leaves of the plant.
The ﬂowers are pale blue to white and quite similar to the bluebonnet.
The tubers without regard to species formed a large part of the food
of the North American Indian and the genus was very probably distrib-
uted by the loss of the tubers around Indian camps. The species is
the “Pomme de Terre” of literature. The root of a mature plant will
often weigh a pound and when baked very much resembles in consist-
ency and taste an Irish potato. As an ornamental this species is ﬁne
for early garden work, as its large woolly leaves and clusters of blue
ﬂowers are very conspicuous. It can be raised either from the seed or
by the transplanting of tubers.

Rhynchosia ieacama T. and G. The One-Leafed Bean. A peculiar member
of the legume family. A vine from a perennial root stalk, the stems
being from .two to three feet long and bearing numerous kidney-shaped
dark green leaves which show a heavy venation both on the upper and
lower sides. The plant gives rise to two kinds of ﬂowers. In early
spring it bears a few ﬂowers which are without stems and are borne
in the axils of the leaves. These ﬂowers are followed by pea pods, each
containing two seeds. In the middle of summer, from the opposite axil
of the ‘leaves a stem about two inches long which arises above the leaves
bears a cluster of three to six bright yellow bean ﬂowers that as a rule
do not produce pods but sometimes produce a pod containing six or
seven seeds. As the plant is peculiar, is extremely resistant to hot dry
weather, and is a sand binder and soil cover, this plant should be used

in parks, roadside plantings, and in yards wherever soft soils occur.

Robinia luzvurians (Dieck.) Rydb. A shrub found on the mountains of
West Texas which bears in spring large clusters of white and pink
ﬂowers. The leaves are from six to eight inches long and are made up
of numerous leaﬂets. This shrub should be used as an ornamental on
sections 7, 5, and 6. It will probably thrive throughout the state. As
its near kinsman which is common to the mountains of the southeastern
states can be grown in any kind of soil, this shrub is recommended for

_ trial.

Robmia Pseudo-Acacia L. Black Locust. This well known tree undoubtedly;
was introduced into the state as an ornamental and for fence post
material. It has established itself abundantly in sections 4A, 4, 4B, and
5, and has lived for many years under cultivation in sections 7, 7A, 4A,
5, and 6. It undoubtedly will grow anywhere in the state that it is
planted. It is a beautiful tree, will stand considerable hot dry weather,
and in from ﬁfteen to twenty years will produce durable fence posts. This
was one of the trees that was highly recommended between 1884 and 1893
when tree claims were being settled through the Panhandle region of
Texas. Numerous groves of this tree still exist. However they have

60 BULLETIN NO. 551, TEXAS AGRICULTURAL EXPERIMENT STATION

not come up to what was expected of them. The plant bears numerous
clusters of white ﬂowers each spring. This tree is recommended for
planting especially in sections 7, 7A, 4A, 5, and 6. In section 4 the
tree has in places become acclimated and grows as a forest tree.

Sophora aﬁinis T. and G. Bear Berry. Small sized tree with gray bark on
the trunk and light green bark on the branches. The leaves are long
and pinnately divided. In spring it gives rise to numerous clusters of
sweet pea ﬂowers which are white and pink. During the fall of the
year the tree is covered with great clusters of black bean pods which are
peculiar in that there is a very narrow constriction between each of
the seeds which gives a common name of “necklace tree” to this species.
The plant is native to all of Texas and makes a good specimen plant for
yard work, and has a place in park and roadside plantings to relieve
the monotony of other species. Commercial.

Sophom secundiﬂora (Ort.) Lag. Mescal Bean. The most common name
of this plant is Mountain Laurel, a name which should not be used, as
Mountain Laurel has long been used as a name for a very different
plant. Mescal bean is preferable as it is a partial translation of the
Indian name. This small tree with dark green foliage and clusters of
beautiful purple ﬂowers in early spring will grow anywhere in the state
and is too well known to need description. It can be raised from seed
or transplanted. However, its propagation is accompanied by a large
number of diﬂiculties. To have success in growing this plant, seed
pods of the year should be obtained in September. The seed should
be taken from the pods and planted immediately, where the trees are
to be located, then watered abundantly for three or four days. The
young plants will come up in about a week. They should then be
protected with a partial shade, and for the next two years the plant will
probably grow not over four to six inches. The third year it will make
abundant growth aboveground and if cultivated and given water, will
grow to a sizable tree.

Sophora sericea Nutt. Silky Sophora. A beautiful plant native to sections
7A, 5, and 6 and will grow in 4A, 4, 4B, and 3. The plant is very
numerous in its habitat but for some unknown reason has received no
common name. It is an annual from a perennial root stalk, growing to
a height of eight to ten inches, and resembling a small leguminous shrub
but having no thorns. Throughout the summer it bears numerous white
legume ﬂowers which make a colony of these plants very conspicuous.
These ﬂowers are followed by small peculiarly shaped pods. For road-
side planting, for borders in parks, or for a specimen plant, there is
no better plant for a permanent ﬁxture. It is easily obtained b'y root
division. This plant is highly recommended.

Tephrosia Zeucosericea (Rydb.) Cory. The Pastel Pea of the sandy lands
in the northern parts of sections 7A, 4A, 4, 4B, and 1. This is the most
beautiful of the genus, all of which are worthy of cultivation. T. Zeucoselricea
grows as a group of short stems about one foot in height. These bear
numerous leaves which are covered with dense white wool, giving the

VALUABLE PLANTS NATIVE TO TEXAS 61

entire plant a very pleasing appearance. In late spring a terminal
spike of bean-shaped ﬂowers of a splendid yellow and red pastel color
make this plant one long to be remembered. It is easily transplanted
because it has a heavy perennial root. This plant should be made
available to the public by some nursery.

Tephrosia Lindheimcri A. Gray. Shoe String. A plant having a perennial
underground root stalk and annual above ground. It produces vine-
like stems six or eight feet in length bearing large pinnately divided
leaves which are silver gray. Throughout the summer it produces quite
large deep red pea-shaped ﬂowers. This plant can easily be transplanted
by root division or grown from seed. It is highly recommended where
one desires a ground cover that will take care of itself. For roadside
work, especially for country cemeteries or other places where only a
minimum of attention can be given, there is no better ornamental. For
yard work this plant will cover a trellis.

Tephrosia virginiana (L.) Pers. Pastel Pea. A plant with a perennial
underground root stalk and annual stems growing to a height of from
one to two feet. In April and May and again after rains, it produces
large numbers of pastel red and yellow pea-shaped ﬂowers. This plant
is found in Texas where soft sands occur and will grow anywhere that
it is planted. It should be adopted for specimen plants, backgrounds and
small hedges, in yards and parks. It has much to recommend it. It is a
soil binder of the ﬁrst class and is found throughout the sand dune
section of Texas, where in addition to its sand binding value it becomes
one of the chief forage plants. Nurseries should make this species
available to the public. This genus has ﬁve other species native to Texas
that are worthy of cultivation. For those wishing to try natives for
ornamentals, these perennial legumes are worthy of trial.

Trifolium species. Besides the ones mentioned T. amphianthilum T. and
G., T. bejaricnse Moric, T. carolinianum Michx., T. dubium Sibth., T. pro-
cumbcns L., T. reﬂexum L., occur in sections 4A, 4, 4B, and 1. These clovers
are all valuable as soil builders and binders. A few of them such as
T. carolinianum and T. reﬂeacum are beautiful enough to be used as
bedding plants. They bloom early in the spring and thus can be super-
seded by other and more showy plants.

Trifolium. repens L. Dutch White Clover. This is the trefoil or sham-rock
of literature. It is a plant introduced from northern countries, and while
it thrives in the northern part of the state, it does not ﬂourish south
of Dallas, though in many places it persists for long periods of time. In
South Texas the plant blooms in midwinter, while on the High Plains
it blooms in June and July. This plant is a favorite in Europe and
northern America as a cover plant for parks, and doubtless will persist
even in Texas. There are six native species in Texas but none of them
is sufﬁciently showy or of abundant growth to warrant its use as orna-
mentals or for forage crops. The red clover, Trifolium pratense L., has
been introduced many times in the state but it will not maintain itself
except in sections 1 and 2 and there for only a short time. After the
removal of the cavalry camp from the government reservation at Leon

62 BULLETIN NO. 551, TEXAS AGRICULTURAL EXPERIMENT STATION

Springs, Texas the entire mule corral became a beautiful ﬁeld of red
clover. It was hoped that the plant would acclimate itself here because
of the lime soil and the protection of the hills, but at the end of three
years the plant ceased to appear. I

Wisteria macrostachya Nutt. A vine Wisteria which is in cultivation. It
must not be confused with the introduced species which produce blooms
before its leaves. The native species is a tall-growing plant, and blooms
in the middle of summer, producing small clusters of violet ﬂowers which
are followed by numerous seed pods. This plant has been so widely
dispersed that it is hard to say just what part of Texas "is its native
home. Where one wishes a tall growing perennial vine that needs no
care, this is the one to use.

Zornia bracteata (Walt.) Gmel. Rabbit Ears. This is an odd member of
the legume family. It grows very abundantly in sandy soils. The small
yellow ﬂowers are produced between two large bracts which suggested
to school children the name of the plant. It grows from a perennial
root stalk and can be used to good effect as a row or border plant in
yards. It can be found in any sandy soils and is best grown from root
divisions.

LINACEAE

Lmum Berlandieri Hook. Large Yellow Flax. Plant native to Ihost oi
Texas. It arises from a perennial root stalk to a height of ﬁve to
six inches and in early spring bears numerous ﬂowers sometimes one
inch in diameter. These ﬂowers, however, fall off very easily and
quickly which detracts from the species. Nevertheless the plant is worth
growing because of its beautiful appearance early in the morning. It
should be cultivated throughout its territory and especially planted
along roadsides and in parks. It will take care of itself.

Linum Lewsii Pursh. Perennial Blue Flax. This ﬂax, which is native in
sections 7A, 4A, and 5, will grow anywhere in the state and is highly
recommended for border plants and roadside work. The part above-
ground resembles a stubby bush about eight inches in height, which
bears throughout the summer large numbers of blue ﬂowers resembling
the cultivated ﬂax. These ﬂowers are followed by ﬂax bolls which con-
tain seed that are almost as large as those of the cultivated species.
This plant has in it the making of a perennial ﬂax which will produce
seed in quantity. For roadside work the plant will re-seed itself and
will stand almost any kind of rough handling.

Linum sanctum Small. and Linum sulcatum Riddell. Other large ﬂowered
species of ﬂax. Generally annual like the the ﬁrst species. They are adapted
to roadside and park work, but unlike L. Berlandieri they hold their flowers
throughout the day, making them more desirable for yard work.

VALUABLE PLANTS NATIVE TO TEXAS 63
OXALIDACEAE

Omalfs dichondraefolia A. Gray. A perennial oxalis native to sections 3,
5, and. 6, which will grow anywhere in the southern parts of 4A, 4,
4B, and 1. It grows as a very 10w shrub not to exceed six inches in
height but with woody stems. It bears gray green woolly leaves and
produces numerous bright yellow large oxalis ﬂowers. As a perennial
border plant or bed plant in localities where only occasional care can
be given, this is recommended.

Owalis Drummondiz’ A. Gray. Oxalis. This is the pink ﬂowered oxalis
which is found in every portion of Texas Where soft soils occur. It
blooms in early spring and again in the late fall. The early blooms
are accompanied by a leaf divided into obovate three-lobed divisions.
In the fall the leaves are much larger and each one of the ovate divisions
is subdivided into two parts, thus giving a six-leaﬂet effect to the leaves.
The plant arises from a peculiar bulb made up of inﬂated leaf-like
scales. To grow this plant these bulbs should be dug and the larger
ones planted where ﬂowers are needed. The plant will maintain itself
after being started. It should be said that this species will grow
as a house plant and it is interesting to know that the Curved Bill
Thrasher of the southern part of Texas lives altogether on the bulbs
of this plant during the Winter. In digging the plants from the hard
ground this thrasher undoubtedly is the means of scattering and bring-
ing into existence hundreds of additional oxalis plants.

GERANIACEAE

Erodium cicutarium (L.) L’Her. Small-ﬂowered Stork’s Bill. A small
winter annual growing to a height of sometimes six inches. The leaves
are dark green and divided into narrow lobes. The stalks are red.
Numerous small red ﬂowers are produced which are followed by the
typical stork’s bi-lls of botany. The plant is a native of the western
parts of the state but will grow anywhere. This plant has been very
largely aided in its population by cattle men scattering the seed to
increase pasturage. As an early cover crop for beds which are to be
utilized later in the season, this low-growing plant is of great use.

Eroclium tewcmum A. Gray. Largeéﬂowered Stork’s Bill. This plant which
is native to all of Texas except the piney woods and Gulf Coast much
resembles the geranium of cultivation. It has geranium shaped leaves
and red stalks, and produces a beautiful red ﬂower much like the ﬂower
of the cultivated geranium, but it differs in that the ﬂowers are not borne
in a cluster and are followed by a long stork’s bill seed pod unlike that
of the cultivated plant. As an early cover and an addition to forage, this
plant should be raised throughout its entire district. It should be
especially planted along the roadside where in the earliest spring it
will give color to the otherwise bare land as the leaves as well as the
ﬂowers are highly colored.

64 BULLETIN NO. 551, TEXAS AGRICULTURAL EXPERIMENT STATION
ZYGOPHYLLACEAE

Larrea tridentata (DC.) Covllle. Creosote Bush. A very peculiar shrub
found in sections 7, 3, 5, and 6 and will grow in 7A, 4A, 4, and 4B.
This is one of the most common shrubs of the desert part of Texas.
Its small hoof-shaped leaves and yellow blossoms make the plant attrac-
tive. The fact that the leaves are covered with a viscid secretion which
has a creosote smell makes this plant an oddity that attracts a great deal
of attention Where the plant is grown as a part of a desert garden or
where under suitable conditions it is used as a specimen or hedge plant
in park work.

Porlieria anlgustifolia (Engelm.) A. Gray. Guayacan. An evergreen rigid

shrub native to sections 7A, 4A, 4, 3, 5, and 6. It grows in large
clumps and the plants reach a height of more than three to four feet;
however, in the Lower Rio Grande Valley certain trees are known
which are eight inches in diameter and thirty feet high. In early spring
these bushes bear numerous white to red ﬁve-petaled ﬂowers over one
inch across. The plant is very attractive to bees and butterﬂies. It is
the source of much of the early spring honey crop. It can be trans-
planted by root division or grown from the seed. As a specimen plant
in yard or park work, it is quite attractive and outside of its own
range it makes an admirable roadside plant because of its hardiness.

KOEBERLINIACEAE

Koeberlinia spinosa Zucc. Allthorn. Native to sections 3, 5, and 6 and to
some extent in 7, 7A, and 4. A most peculiar plant consisting largely
of green barked stems which because the tips are sharpened resemble a
cluster of huge thorns. In early spring these green stems bear a few
minute leaves towards the points of the branches and lower down small
white ﬂowers. The leaves soon fall off. The ﬂowers are followed by
small black berries which disappear within a month, leaving the plant
during much of the year as a shrub or tree composed entirely of green
thorns. It grows very slowly, and outside of its habitat is unknown.
This species will grow anywhere in Texas, and where a collection of
plants or a rock garden is maintained this should be one of the plants
used. It can be transplanted. Allthorn must not be confused with
Adolphia tnfesta (H.B.K.) Meisn., another bush which is generally
without leaves or ﬂowers and consists entirely of green thorns. Adolphia
is more slender than allthorn and the branches extend at right angles
from the plant and also to each other, a habit which does not occur in
allthorn.

MALPIGHIACEAE

Malpighia glabra L. Wild Crape Myrtle. A small shrub with brown bark,
withe~like branches, and smooth green leaves growing to a height of
four to ﬁve feet; very common on the Gulf Coast strip from Corpus
Christi to the Lower Rio Grande Valley. The ﬂowers which are red
and yellow are of the same shape as the cultivated crape myrtle. They

VALUABLE PLANTS NATIVE TO TEXAS 6S

are followed by small red berries. This plant is easily transplanted, is
found in every thicket on the Gulf Coast, responds to cultivation by
making rapid growth and producing many ﬂowers, and is an excellent
plant for yard work in section 8. This plant will grow with proper care
anywhere south of Austin. It has been repeatedly transplanted with
good results throughout its Gulf Coast range.

Thryallis angustiyolia (Benth.) Kuntze. A peculiar and low-growing shrub
found in sections 3, 5, and 4A; it is a perennial and reaches a height of about
one foot. It has dark green almost coriaceous leaves one inch long.
At various times during the summer and fall it bears spikes with a few
red ﬂowers of the same shape as those borne by the crape myrtle. These
ﬂowers, which are about one-half inch in diameter, turn yellow with age
and do not drop from the stem until the seed are ripened. This plant
should be grown in rock gardens or desert gardens wherever these are
maintained, as it is easy to grow. Like any desert plant it blooms after
every rain of any amount, no matter what time of year.

RUTACEAE

Citrus tr-ifoliata L. Bitter Orange. The wild or bitter orange has become
a native in Texas, at many places in sections 4B, 1, and probably 3. In
the vicinity of Tyler it forms large thickets in the ravines leading from
the old nurseries where this plant was formerly used as a root stock
for the cultivated citrus. The plant itself has a horticultural value in
that it will withstand greater amounts of cold than any member of
the citrus group and will produce orange blossoms far north of their
natural habitat. If properly pruned to do away with the dead wood, the
trees present a ﬁne appearance throughout the year. The plant can be
trimmed into a hedge to good effect; however as a specimen tree with
the fruits left intact through the winter, it will receive the greatest
amount of comment.

Helietta parvifolia (A. Gray) Benth. Small-growing tree seldom reaching
a height of more than ﬁve or six feet but always maintaining a tree-like
form. The branches are red brown but the new wood is bright yellow.
The leaves are small and trifoliate. In spring it bears clusters of small
white ﬂowers followed by red brown berries. The plant differs from
other members of the family in that it is unarmed. It is easily trans-
planted and makes a beautiful specimen plant or hedge. It is native
to the Gulf Coast strip of section 3 but will grow anywhere south and
east of San Antonio and probably elsewhere. It is worthy of a trial.

Ptelea Baldw/inii T. and G. The narrow-leafed Wafer Ash. This member
of the well-known wafer ash group is found only in isolated localities
along the Rio Grande where it grows on gravel-topped hills. Differing
from most plants of the genus the stems are straight, smooth, and up-
right. They reach a height of from eight to ten feet and bear thick
clusters of narrow leaves which also point upward. The leaves are
trifoliate and the leaﬂets about three-eighths of an inch by one and one-
half inches. The ﬂowers are the typical green clusters of the wafer ash

66 BULLETIN NO. 551, TEXAS AGRICULTURAL EXPERIMENT STATION

and are borne near the tips of the limbs. The ﬂowers are followed by
typical wafers that give the name to the tree. The wood of this differs
from others in that it is white and tough. The plant does not have as
much of the characteristic odor of the wafer ash as the other species.
Because of the hardiness of this plant and places it can ﬁll in in yard
or park plantings, this species should be made available to the public.

Ptelea monticola Greene. and Ptelea trifoliata L. Wafer Ash. These two
species resemble each other very much and grow in the same district,
one preferring hills and mountains while the other grows in river bottoms
and prairies. They are so confused in the mind of the public that they
must be grouped together. The plants are well known by the peculiar
shaped pods which resemble the wafers once used in sealing letters and
public documents. A later and more up-to-date name is Potato Chip
tree, as the child of today never heard of a wafer but is well acquainted
with potato chips. Besides being a quick-growing shrub, the plant will
grow under all kinds of weather and soil conditions and is ornamental
throughout the year. Commercial.

Xanthoocylttm Clava-Herculis L. Hercules Club. A medium forest tree of
sections 4B and 1 and to some extent in 4 and 3. Will grow anywhere
in the state. The trees in early youth have an armament of stout thorns
along their base. As the trees increase in size these thorns have
developed under them a thick layer of cork which causes the thorn to
extend as the apex of a pyramid of cork. Some of these projections are
three inches long and four inches in diameter. By the time the tree
reaches a diameter of more than four inches these lumps disappear with
the exception of a section at the base of the tree. The upper bark of
the trunk and limbs is almost white. The leaves are pinnately divided
and bear few thorns on the midribs. The plant bears a cluster of yellow-
green ﬂowers followed by small capsules which burst, exhibiting glossy
black seeds. The leaves. possess a sharp aromatic odor and ﬂavor giving
the common name of tickle tongue. This tree should be grown as a
specimen plant in every collection of forest trees. For roadside planting
through the eastern part of the state it has its place. Commercial.

Xanthomylunt Fagara (L.) Sarg. Colima. This is the most beautiful of the
Xanthoxylum group. It grows as a heavily branched shrub with numerous
zigzag branches, the nodes of which are not over two inches in length.
The leaves are pinnate but are divided and are less than two inches in
length. The old plant bears numerous thorns which curve backward
giving the name of “Una de Gato” to this shrub. It is easy to push
one’s arm into one of these bushes and next to impossible to pull it
out. About the middle of the winter this plant puts forth hundreds of
small yellow ﬂowers which have an orange odor. By March it has
ripened a large group of small yellow-red capsules which have a strong
odor of citrus. This shrub is valuable as it can be trimmed to shape
and in growing will maintain this shape. It is well adapted as a plant
in a formal garden where all of the trees and shrubs are trimmed to
shape. Native to sections 3, 5, and 6, and parts of 4, 4B, and 2.

VALUABLE PLANTS NATIVE TO TEXAS 67

Xanthoxylunz macrophyllzmn Nutt. Prickly Ash. This is a tall-growing
shrub somewhat resembling Clava-Herculis; however it does not pro-
duce the excrescences at the base of the trunk and does not have smooth
light-colored bark on its limbs, nor do the limbs extend from the trunk

at right angles. The branches are short and zigzag, and bear small -

pinna-tely divided leaves that have many thorns along the mid-ribs. This
shrub like its large kinsman should be used in every part of Texas where
an odd and different species of small tree is desired. It already is
used in many parks and roadside plantings.

SIMARUBACEAE

Ailanthus glanclulosa Desf. Tree of Heaven. This tree, which is a native
of the Orient, has gone wild all over Texas. It is here mentioned with
the caution that it should not be grown unless there is some special
reason for desiring the plant. It has the habit of putting out water
sprouts which are next to impossible to exterminate. It has very little
to commend it with the exception that it will grow almost anywhere.
It is of rapid growth and goes to pieces just as rapidly. There are many
other trees that will answer the same purpose and give n1uch better
servlce.

Oastela temana (T. and G.) Rose. Amargosa. This is one of the most
spinose of the shrubs of the brush country. It is native in sections
4, 3, 5, and 6. It grows in thickets of an almost pure stand. The
bark is light gray, the branches very stiff and ending with a sharp thorn.
The leaves are about one-third of an inch long, very narrow, dark green
above, and almost white below. The ﬂowers are very small, being
about one-fourth of an inch across, and red in color. They have four
petals. These ﬂowers are followed by fruits which are about one-half
inch long, one-fourth of an inch in diameter, and glossy red. One of
these stiff bushes either in full ﬂower or full fruit is a very pleasing
thing. Every portion of this bush possesses a bitter juice whose ﬂavor
will persist in the mouth for several days and gives the common name
to the plant. Where a specimen plant is needed to protect a colony
of some tender plant there is nothing that equals this shrub, as not even
the strongest of cattle can make their way through a thicket of it. The
plant is recommended for protecting hedges and ﬂower beds where rare
or valuable plants are grown.

MELIACEAE

Melia Azedarach L. Umbrella China. This is another plant that is men-
tioned to caution against its use. The plant itself is very beautiful.
Its abundant foliage, quick growth, and clusters of blue ﬂowers followed
by yellow berries make it a very desirable ornamental; however this
tree is heir to-‘every disease which trees have, and insects are extremely
fond of it. As a result most of the trees appear old, very much diseased,
and unsightly. The leaves which are early dropped and the large num-
bers of berries which adhere to the stems and which drop during the
winter create a constant chore of cleaning up around this tree. Before
planting a chinaberry other species should be considered.

68 BULLETIN NO. 551, TEXAS AGRICULTURAL EXPERIMENT STATION

POLYGALACEAE

Polygala alba Nutt. Angel Wings. This is a very peculiar plant. Native
of all of Texas. Its special habitat is dry hills. The plant itself consists

' of a heavy perennial root stalk and a small cluster of all green annual

stems aboveground which reach a height of not over six inches. These
delicate wand-like stems bear small, light green leaves and are. covered
throughout much of the summer with delicate white tassel-like ﬂowers.
The resemblance of the spray of white ﬂowers suggested the common
name. This plant makes an excellent border for sidewalks and for
ﬂower beds. It is easily transplanted by digging out the root clusters
and dividing them. It is a plant that should be widely used, but so
far as known only experimenters have grown it. All it needs is to be
planted. It will grow through long periods of time without cultivation.

Polygala ovatifolia A. Gray. A species resembling a small shrub. Native
to Texas south of San Antonio. The small bush grows to a height of six
inches, has a heavy underground root stalk, and bears numerous small
ovate leaves. All through the summer new branches bear clusters of
pink pear-shaped ﬂowers about one-third of an inch long. This plant
is seldom seen as it grows only under the protection of thorny shrubs
as cattle relish it for food. This plant should be sought out and made
available to the public.

EUPHORBIACEAE

Acalypha Lindheimeri‘ Muell. Arg. Cardinal Feather. An almost vine-
like plant rising from a perennial root stalk, stems wiry from two to
three feet long, bearing thin lanceolate leaves, and a spike of red ﬂowers
at the tips of the branches. Axils of leaves are also adorned with bracts
which turn red as the plant reaches maturity. Very ornamental for a.
rock garden.

Acalypha mdians Torr. Cardinal Feather. A very peculiar evergreen
plant arising from a heavy root stalk. Plant seldom reaches a height
of more than four to six inches. It consists of numerous upright stems
bearing small woolly leaﬂets. The pistillate and staminate ﬂowers are
borne on separate plants. The pistillate ﬂowers occur as small bright
red spikes at the tips of the branches. On the staminate plant the red
stamens are very conspicuous as they come from the axils of the large-

lobed bracts on the sides of the stems. These plants are very hardy’

and easily grown in sandy locations. They should be included in all
rock gardens and other places where peculiar and interesting plants
are grown. Will grow anywhere in Texas. l

Bernardia myricaefolia (Scheele) S. Wats. Myrtle-leafed Croton. This

little known shrub bears a large number of small coriaceous leaves
and having the ability to grow under the most adverse conditions should
be used wherever such conditions confront the planter. This species

VALUABLE PLANTS NATIVE TO TEXAS ’ 69

is native to all of Texas west and north of Houston and will grow any-
where planted providing the soil is well drained. In cultivation where
the old wood is pruned from the bushes, the fresh growth makes this
plant a pleasing sight, and as a specimen or hedge plant it is of value.

Euphorbia albomarginata T. and G. One of the prostrate Euphorbias which
make a very efficient ground cover and sand binder. This plant is known
by the small white margins on both the leaves and ﬂoral bracts. It is
native of all sections of the state and is very abundant wherever loose
blow sands occur. It is an annual or biennial and the numerous pros-
trate branches do not make roots; thus the entire plant can be lifted
from the ground. This plant and other species which closely resemble
it should be freely used as sand binders especially where blow sands
occur. The seed is easily gathered by cutting the plants and, after
drying a short time, threshing the seed. The seed should be planted
in the fall of the year by broadcasting over sandy areas. This group
of prostrate Euphorbias is called Golondrina by the Mexicans and Flux
Weed by ranch people.

Euphorbia bicolor Engelm. Snow-on-the-Mountain. A plant growing to
the height of about three feet, having a single stem and few short
branches. The leaves are lanceolate, somewhat woolly when young.
The ﬂoral bracts and leaves are edged with white. Native of section 2
and parts of 3 but will grow anywhere planted. The seed is found on
the market under the name of Snow-on-the-Mountain, throughout the
northern and eastern states.

Euphorbia heterophylla L. Wild Poinsettia. A small stemmed plant
growing up to two feet in height, bearing numerous lanceolate to ovate
leaves which have on their surfaces large spots of pink, red, or brown.
The seed clusters and bracts are colored and resemble the cultivated
Poinsettia. This is a common weed through the river valleys of Texas.
It is a plant for the experimenter. There is little doubt that strains
can be selected from this species that will be as beautiful and become
as widely cultivated as the exotic species which are offered for sale.

Euphorbia marginata Pursh. Snow-on-the-Mountain. This is the more

common. species in cultivation. In Texas it grows in every part of the

i’. state as a weed and no attempt has been made to use it as an ornamental.

It, 'however, has its place where large unsightly areas are to be covered

, with a green and white covering. It will give good service where new

 building sites are being improved, as within part of a year large acreages

_l can be given a cover which will be pleasing up to the time of the ﬁrst

 frost. Seed is easily gathered and needs no preparation of soil for plant-

i; ing. The seed should be sown broadcast at any time between Septem-
 ber and June. A

     
 
 

Jatropha cathartica (Berl.) Johnston. A very little known but beautiful
plant. It occurs in section 3 and doubtless will grow under cultivation
in sections 7A, 4A, 4, 4B, 5, and probably others. The plant consists of
a large globular tuber much bigger than the plant above the ground. The
plant above ground is represented by a cluster of palmately divided leaves

70 BULLETIN NO. 551, TEXAS AGRICULTURAL EXPERIMENT STATION

about one and one-half inches across and resembling somewhat the leaves
of the castor bean. They are smooth and light green in color and occur
as a thick rosette about six inches in diameter. Throughout the summer
small umbels of bright red ﬂowers rise to a height of three to four inches
above the rosette. This plant has been under observation two years and
has given the best of results both as an outdoor plant which will maintain
itself and as a pot plant living under shelter. This plant should be made
available by dealers as it will become a ﬁne addition to any rock garden.

Jutropha spathulata (Ort.) Muell. Arg. Leather Weed. “A most peculiar
plant. Native to sections 3 and 6. Growing to some extent in 5, 4, and
4B but will grow anywhere. The plant consists of long succulent root
stalks about one-half inch in diameter and aboveground stems from
eighteen inches to two feet long, bearing numerous spatulate leaves and
at times small white to pink ﬂowers in the axils of the leaves. The
peculiar thing about the plant is that the stem consists of a brown paper-
like bark. The cambium layer is very deep and mucilaginous. The wood
ﬁbers are collected in a central body and are small in proportion to the
stem. The branches can be bent in any direction so that the plant can
be tied i.nto knots without stopping the growth. The mucilaginous sub-
stance has led many people to believe that this plant contains rubber;
however, analyses have shown that it does not. The Mexicans know the
plant as “Sangre de Grado,” meaning the blood of the dragon, and use
the root as a toothwash, believing that it will cure pyorrhea. As a speci-
men plant or a small hedge this species will attract attention anywhere.
It should be a part of every collection of desert plants.

Phyllanthits alvicullaria Small. The Texas Star Gooseberry. A little known
plant. It and its near species are common to all of Texas; however, it is
more common in sandy soils than elsewhere. The plant grows as an
annual 'or biennial above the ground and resembles a small spreading
tree, reaching a height of only ten or twelve inches. The leaves are
very small and so close together as to touch each other along the stems.
On the under side of the branches it bears abundant green fruits, each
one marked at the blossom end with a small green star. Introduced
species, which are shrubs, are grown in some places and the fruits used
as substitutes for the gooseberry of commerce. This plant which can
thrive under adverse conditions and in almost pure sand soils should be
utilized in abundance where a persistent and beautiful plant is needed
for a ground cover.

Ricmus communis L. Castor Beans. Several types of commercial castor
beans have gone wild in Texas. They are known as the red and green.
castor beans. On the Gulf Coast the red bean is the more common, while
in other parts of the state, the green is predominant. This plant recom-
mends itself to those who wish a tall growing species in a garden or
elsewhere to produce an abundance of shade on short notice. The plant
itself is so common that it is not considered as an ornamental. In many
parts of Texas the plant which is annual becomes perennial because of
no killing frosts. Commercial.

VALUABLE PLANTS NATIVE TO TEXAS 71

Stillmgia tewana Johnston. A heavy herb arising from a perennial cluster
of roots and bearing numerous upright stalks with lanceolate green leaves
tipped by a peculiar cluster of yellowish green ﬂowers. This plant is
native to the most of Texas. Other and similar species, hard to dis-
tinguish, are found with the above. Where an herbaceous species is
needed to attract attention through the summer or to become a member
of a row or specimen planting, this plant should be used.

ANACARDIACEAE

Pistiacia mer/cicana H. B. K. A small tree of rapid growth, having long
Withe-like branches covered with brown bark and bearing numerous pin-
natelry divided small leaves. The plant very much resembles certain
species of sumac. It is found native only in a few places along the
Rio Grande river; however when raised in cultivation it produces a
beautiful ornamental tree. It reaches a height of ﬁfteen to twenty feet
and produces many small berry-like fruits which are similar to the
pistachio nuts of commerce in everything but size. This plant will do
well in all of Texas south of Austin and should be made available to the
people by some nursery.

Rhus lanceolata A. Gray. Dwarf Sumac. This is the most common
form of sumac in the state of Texas. It generally grows to a height
of four to ﬁve feet, blooms in July, and ripens its thick cluster of red
fruits in August, but the fruits stay in place all winter. This sumac
can be told from all others because of the leaf-like edges which con-
nect the leaﬂets and fasten them to the midrib. The water sprouts
of this species especially in river valleys sometimes grow to a height
of ten or ﬁfteen feet and bear quite large leaves but can be recognized
by the connecting leaf tissue. The plant is easily grown from seed or
transplanted. It should be used wherever a small tree-like ornamental
which has both ﬂowers and fruits that are showy is desired. This is
adapted to mass work on hillsides in parks, and is valuable for roadside
plantings through rough sections where it is necessary to hide masses
of native rock.

Ootinus americanus Nutt. Smoke Tree. A member of the genus which
has long been cultivated and also confused with an introduced species
which is also cultivated. This plant is common only from section 5 but it
grows throughout the state. It is a very beautiful small tree or tall
shrub. It bears numerous small greenish ﬂowers in early spring which
are followed by elongated seed stalks bearing feathery pods. A tree in
full fruit looks as if it had a halo of smoke around its top, hence the
name. This tree is hard to gr'oW from seed and is not found in great
abundance in nature. It can be procured from almost any nurseryman.

Rhus glabra L. Sumac of East Texas. A tall-growing sumac reaching a‘

height of twenty feet, bearing huge pinnately divided leaves and large
clusters of white ﬂowers followed by even larger clusters of red fruits.
In autumn the leaves turn bright red, making it a very desirable tree.
It is found in sections 5, 4B, and 1, and will grow in sections 7A, 4A,
4, 2, 3, and 5. Commercial.

72 BULLETIN NO. 551, TEXAS AGRICULTURAL EXPERIMENT STATION

Rhus vernix L. Poison Oak. This is the most violent of the poison ivies.
It is found in bogs in section 1. It is here mentioned only to call atten-
tion to the fact that where botanical gardens maintain exhibits of plants
that a bed containing all of the poisonous varieties of the genus Rhus
would be one of great value as it would give the visitors an accurate
knowledge of what plants are to be avoided. R. vernix does not in any
way resemble poison ivy. It has a most beautiful foliage. The leaf
consists of a red midrib bearing from three to six pairs of ovate dark
green leaﬂets and a terminal one. These leaves are borne in clusters at
the ends of the branches. A person unacquainted with. the plant, being
attracted by the beauty of the foliage, is likely to come into contact
with it. The result is a very violent case of poisoning.

Rhus virens Lindh. Evergreen Sumac. Native of sections 7, 5, and 6 and
will grow in most of the state. One of the best of this group of ornamen-
tals. It is easily grown, has evergreen leaves, and in the fall of the year
bears small white ﬂowers. The ﬂowers are not gathered in clusters like
the other sumacs; the fruits are bright red and quite ornamental. The
plant can be grown from seed or dug from the wild. Commercial.

AQUIFOLIACEAE

Ilew decidua Walt. Deciduous Holly or Possum Haw. A small straight-
growing tree with deciduous lanceolate leaves, bearing clusters of small
yellowish ﬂowers in early spring. After the leaves have fallen, the
numerous bright red berries cover the branches. Native in sections 7A,
4A, 4, 4B, 1, 2, 3, and 5 and will grow anywhere in the state. This tree
is recommended for mass planting along roadsides where there is mois-
ture; and as a specimen tree for yards and parks.

Ilew opaca Ait. American Holly. Native in sections 4B, 1, and 2 but can
be grown in 7, 4A, and parts of 3 and 5. This is the most popular of the
genus and is called Christmas Holly. It bears on each leaf from ﬁve to
seven strong teeth armed with spines which give this holly the resemblance
to the European holly. It is a most beautiful tree growing to a height
of forty feet. The small white ﬂowers are inconspicuous as they are
hidden under the mass of the coriaceous leaves; however the large red
berries which ripen in late autumn make this a very conspicuous tree.
Because of the demand for its branches for Christmas decoration, this
tree has reached the verge of extinction. Wherever trees are to be
planted where they can be cared for, this tree should receive a place in
order to increase its number and the decorative material. Where the
branches are harvested a goodly crop can be taken from a tree each
year without detriment to the tree. Because of the small numbers left in
their native habitat and the diﬂiculties encountered in growing this plant
from seed, young plants should be secured from nurseries.

Ilew vomitoria Ait. The Evergreen Holly or Yaupon. A most beautiful
evergreen shrub bearing numerous small coriaceous leaves and in early
spring huge masses of very small yellowish ﬂowers which are followed in
the fall by equally numerous clusters of wine-red berries. This plant

VALUABLE PLANTS NATIVE TO TEXAS 73

is becoming extremely popular as a producer of Christmas decorations.
Native of sections 4, 4B, 1, and 2 but will thrive anywhere soft soils and
moisture are present. The plant is diﬂicult to grow from seed or to
transplant; however as it can be had from nurseries, this shrub should
recommend itself to anyone wishing an evergreen hedge which has no
thorns and is green throughout the year and adorned by red berries.

CELASTRACEAE

Celastrus scandens L. American Bittersweet. A perennial vine native to
sections 1, 2, and 6. It is very common in the Big Thicket and around
the edge of Trinity Bay. It consists of a strong growing vine with smooth
gray bark. The upper branches of the vine are long and green in color.
The leaves are ovate, light green, and borne in numbers. In July the
plant bears numerous clusters of small white ﬂowers which in autumn
are followed by red fruits about one-third of an inch in diameter. Later
in the winter the red outer part of the capsule breaks, exposing the very
dark red seed underneath. This plant has long been a favorite of ﬂori-
culturists in the eastern and northern states. It should be used every-
where that plantings of a permanent nature are to be made. This vine
can be used in connection with a tall growing plant, especially if a tree
has deciduous leaves. Commercial.

Evonymus americanus L. Strawberry Bush. A small shrub growing’ in
shady, moist localities in sections 1 and 2. The stems are covered with
green bark and are four angled. The obovate leaves are thin and the
plant green. In the fall the bush is adorned with brilliant red fruits
about one inch in diameter, the outer part of which is somewhat rough-
ened. Later in the year the capsule breaks exposing several highly
colored seeds. It is doubtful if this plant can be used for general work;
however where water gardens or lake and river fronts are to be land-
scaped, this plant can be used to good effect. As a specimen plant, a low
hedge, or member of a group of water living shrubs, this will give good
service. This shrub has been used in the southeastern states for years in
landscape work. Commercial.

Evonymus atropurpureus Jacq. Wahoo. A small round-topped tree with
gray bark below and green above. It bears numerous small white ﬂowers

. in late spring which are followed in August by large three- or four-angled

fruit pods, which are green when ﬁrst produced but afterwards turn
bright red. As soon as the leaves fall from the tree in autumn, the pods
open and display bright red berries in the lighter red pods. These persist
throughout the winter. This tree should grow anywhere in sections
7, 7A, 4A, 4, 4B, 1, and probably in parts of 5 as it is hardy as far north
as Chicago, Illinois. It is recommended for use in yards where a small
good-looking tree is needed and for specimen plantings in parks and
along roadsides. Commercial.

Mortonia Greggii Gray. A low-growing shrub native to the Lower Rio
Grande Valley. The stems grow to the height of about one inch and are
covered with very numerous leaves so close together that they hide the
stems. These leaves are about one-eighth of an inch wide and one-fourth

74 BULLETIN NO. S51, TEXAS AGRICULTURAL EXPERIMENT STATION

of an inch long. In spring this plant gives rise to a number of ﬂower
stems, six or eight inches long, each one of which bears numerous white
ﬂowers about one-fourth of an inch across. The plant has Wonderful
possibilities as a hedge and border plant. It probably will grow anywhere
in section 8 and probably farther north. Some nursery should make this
available.

Schaeﬂemla cimeifolia A. Gray. Desert Yaupon. Native of sections 4A, 4,
3, 5, and parts of 7A and 6. A low-growing shrub with small oval leaves
about one-half of an inch long borne in large numbers. In early spring
and during the summer it bears many small green colored ﬂowers. They
are followed in time by small red berries. The name Desert Yaupon has
been applied to it because of its resemblance to the Ilex of East Texas.
This plant is coming into use for Christmas decorations throughout the
territory where it is native. The plant is very slow in its growth but
transplants easily and can be trimmed to shape. This is one plant that
should be used by those desiring low hedges for formal gardens and
specimen plants in ﬂoral architecture. It can easily be transplanted or
grown from seed.

ACERACEAE

Acer ﬂoridanum (Chapm.) Pax. Southern Sugar Maple. This is native
to section 1, but under cultivation will grow anywhere east of Austin.
It is a typical sugar maple with dark-colored bark and smooth gray
branches, and grows as a shapely round-topped tree. It should be included
in park and roadside plantings a11d for trees in yards. Commercial.

Acer grandidentatum Nutt. var. brachypteruan (Woot. and Standl.)
Palmer. Big Tooth Maple. A typical sugar maple native to the moun-
tains of Trans-Pecos Texas. This tree will probably thrive also in sections
1, 2, and 9. It should be used in plantings in its own territory. The
tree now is conﬁned to almost inaccessible canyons, as those growing on
ﬂat lands were long ago used as a source of ﬁre wood and building
material. The tree is easily grown from seed and is worthy of being
perpetuated and made popular by nurseries.

Acer negundo L. Box Elder. The box elder and its variety, the Texas Box
Elder, occur throughout the state. They are of rapid growth but do their
best in moist locations. They are short-lived trees and require consid-
erable attention to give them a neat appearance. They have, however,
to their advantage the rapidity of growth which will give good shade
within a few years. Commercial.

Acer saccharum Marshall. Sugar Maple. The common sugar maple of the
United States will grow anywhere in Texas if given proper care. Com-
mercial. i

Acer saccharinum L. Soft or Sugar Maple. A most popular tree for road-
side and park plantings in the North because of its rapid growth. It is
given here to warn against its extensive use, as this tree seems to be
unable to stand the sun and temperature of Texas except in the extreme
northern part of section 7. Commercial.

VALUABLE PLANTS NATIVE TO TEXAS 75

Acer rubrmn, L. Red Maple. This maple and and its several horticultural
varieties are natives of section 4B, 1, 2, and 3. The tree is a small-
growi11g maple with gray bark below and bright red above. The winter
buds and ﬂowers are brilliant red. In its habitat it grows in swamps or
swamp-like situations; however it does well anywhere in sections 1, 2, and
parts of 4, 4B, and 3. Where a single small tree is needed, this is
recommended. Commercial.

Acer saccharum Marsh var. sinuosum (Rehd.) Sarg. Balcones Escarpment
Maple. A peculiar form of sugar maple found only along the Balcones Escarp-
ment at the southern edge of section 5 being known only from ﬁve counties.
This is a small straight sugar maple with dark-colored bark and bearing
toothed leaves. Because of its rarity this tree which is adapted to the
central part of Texas should be grown by nurseries and made available
to the public.

AESOULACEAE

Aesculus discolor Pursh. The Woolly Buckeye. This is a small growing
buckeye tree which bears both light red and light yellow ﬂowers. The
leaves are very large and attractive. The fruits are about two inches in
diameter. It is a quick-growing tree and where shade and moisture are
available is ﬁne for park or roadside work. A single one of these trees
is very attractive in a yard. Commercial.

Aesculus glabra Buckl. Tree Buckeye or Horse Chestnut. A large tree
conﬁned to the eastern part of the state where it grows i11 moist situations.
The wood is very light but tough. It is hard to ﬁnd an old specimen of
this species because of the great demand made in past time on this
species for ox yokes, an implement which necessitated a very strong piece
of material and yet one which was light. The wood is durable as is
attested by the numbers of ox yokes which are still extant. This tree
should be propagated and made abundant through roadside and park
plantings as it has its place among the forest trees of Texas.

Aesculus arguta Buckl. A tall-growing Buckeye, found throughout the
state. It is to be known by the large peculiarly formed leaﬂets which
make a very attractive tree in the summer. It should be used in road-
side and yard plantings. Commercial.

Aesculus Pavia L. A name of an eastern low-growing, red-ﬂowered buckeye
but in Texas applied to a small tree which is common in sections 4A, 4,
4B, 1, and 3. In early spring this shrub bears large clusters of dark
red ﬂowers which are followed in the early fall by seed pods sometimes

:7 three inches in diameter. This form is one of the best for planting in
~ yards and along water courses, as it is easily grown and will bloom the

third year from seed. This form is sufficiently distinct to warrant a.

 speciﬁc name.

76 BULLETIN NO. 551, TEXAS AGRICULTURAL EXPERIMENT STATION
SAPINDACEAE

Cardiospermum Halicacabum L. Balloonvine. An annual vine of rapid and
vigorous growth. The plant is native to the overﬂow parts of rivers
of Texas. Following overﬂows, drifts, dried mud holes, and other
unsightly places are covered with the thick mass of feathery-leafed vines.
There are about as many white ﬂowers as leaves. A little later the
ﬂowers give way to balloon-shaped capsules about one inch in diameter.
These capsules contain a few black seed, each one of which bears a
heart-shaped white spot giving the name to the plant. This vine has
been in cultivation for many years. Seed can be purchased anywhere.

Gardiospermum microcarpuon H.B.K. Perennial Balloon Vine. This is a
plant native to section 3 and will probably grow anywhere in the southern
half of Texas. It is a low-growing woody vine which produces through-
out the summer abundant dark green foliage. After midsummer it pro-
duces long sprays of white, rather showy ﬂowers which are followed by
balloon-like capsules about one-half inch in length. The capsules are
bronzed and give the plant a very peculiar appearance, making it a
thing of beauty. It is a honey plant throughout its native range and
should be planted to cover trellises, as a background for bed plants, and
cover for fences.

Sapindus Drummondii H. and A. Wild China, Western Soap Berry. A small
tree which is nowhere abundant but which occurs in every section in
Texas. It bears numerous pinnately divided leaves and clusters of white
ﬂowers of such a shape and color that the tree is often called wild
ligustrum. In the fall of the year these ﬂower clusters become bunches
of yellow grape-like berries. The outside pulp is yellow and the seed
jet black. This pulp has properties that make it valuable to the manu-
facturers of varnish and ﬂoor wax. The tree is recommended for plant-
ing where there is need of a native tree that can stand the weather and
take care of itself. Commercial.

Serjania bmchycarpa A. Gray. A perennial vine common to the sections
4, 4B, 2, and 3. The vine very much resembles clematis and is often
mistaken for it. However this vine remains green throughout the year
and bears in the fall and winter a large number of balloon-like capsules
more than an inch in length and having from three to ﬁve sides. This
vine is recommended for use in sections 4B, 1, 2, and 3.

Ungnadia speciosa Endl. Mexican Buckeye. A tall growing shrub or at
times a tree. Native of most of Texas. The wand-like stems of the
shrub are dark colored. In early spring it bears clusters of pink ﬂowers
about one and one-half inches across. The leaves come out as the
ﬂowers fall- By the ﬁrst of June the tree is adorned by very peculiar
three-lobed pods which bear three or four small black buckeyes. The
pods open later in the year but not suﬁiciently to allow the buckeyes to
fall from the case. The leaves fall early and leave a very peculiarly
adorned bush that holds these pods through the winter. The plant is
looked upon by the beekeepers as a source of early honey. It is very
ornamental and should be more extensively used. It is most easily
grown from seed.

VALUABLE PLANTS NATIVE TO TEXAS 77
RHAMNACEAE

Adolphia infesta (H.B.K.) Meisn. This shrub which is very common in
Trans-Pecos Texas seemingly has received no common name. It is con-
fused in the Big Bend country with allthorn. They, however, should
not be confused as Adolphia is of more slender growth and seldom
reaches a height of more than a few feet, while allthorn becomes almost
tree-like. For a desert or rock garden Adolphia has a place. The plant
is undoubtedly easily transplanted as it has been abundantly used
throughout its habitat in roadside and advertising work. Commercial.

Berchemia scandens (Hill) Trel. Rattan, Supple Jack. A beautiful vine-
like Rhamnus; grows as a vine with smooth green bark which cannot
be separated from the wood. It attains a diameter of as much as six
inches and will grow to the tops of the tallest trees. The leaves are
about one inch long, ovate, and beautifully veined. Through the spring
and summer the vine is covered with clusters of white ﬂowers which are
the source of much of the honey of East Texas. During the fall and
winter these ﬂowers are replaced by small blue berries which are very
much appreciated by migratory birds. This vine will grow anywhere
in Texas where there is moisture and some shade to protect the vine

until it is well established. It should be very largely used in park and‘

stream landscaping. Commercial.

Geanothus americanus L. New Jersey Tea. A small low growing shrub
found in almost every section of Texas. It seldom grows more than two
to three feet high and bears in spring dense clusters of white ﬂowers.
The seed pods which fall are almost as ornamental as the ﬂower clusters.
This shrub bears no thorns; it can be easily transplanted or grown from
the seed, and makes a beautiful hedge. Commercial.

  
  
  
  
  
   
  
   
 
   
 
  
   
   

Geanothus Greggii A. Gray—-Gregg’s Ceanothus. A large-growing form of
New Jersey Tea. It is a native of sections 7A, 4A, and 5. It also
should be more largely used for hedge work.

Geanothus ovatus Desf. Red Root. A low growing shrub found in sections
4B and 1 but will grow under cultivation in all of Texas east of Austin.
This plant grows to a height of not more than a foot, and is covered
,throughout the spring and early summer with dense clusters of small
g,white ﬂowers. The leaves are oval and borne in great quantity. This
‘ little shrub makes a ﬁne low hedge or border plant for permanent beds.
; It is easily transplanted. A red dye can be procured from its roots.
Y »  Commercial.

Golubrina temensis (T. and G.) A. Gray. Hog Plum. An unarmed low-
Jjgrowing desert shrub; the leaves light green in color, small and rough.
};The branches are gray and zigzag. In early spring this bush bears a
ilarge number of peculiar yellow ﬂowers which are followed in summer
jby dry capsules about one-half inch in diameter containing hard seed.
 e plant has little in its favor with the exception that it will grow any-
fivhere, is easily transplanted, and can be trimmed to shape. This shrub
{should be used wherever hedges or backgrounds are needed in sections
731A, 4, 4B, 5, and s.

78 BULLETIN NO. 551, TEXAS AGRICULTURAL EXPERIMENT STATION

Oondalia obovata Hook. Btasil. Shrub or low-growing tree bearing
abundant ovate green leaves. In the fall of the year the tree is generally
covered with small, red, edible berries which are much sought after by
birds and children. This tree does not grow rapidly but produces many
leaves so that it makes a ﬁne tree for yard planting. It has few thorns
located at the tips of the branches. Its wood is peculiar in that it is easier
broken than cut. It is a favorite stove Wood of those living in sections
3, 5, and 6.

Oondlalia obiusifolia (Hook) Weberb. Lote. This small tree-like shrub
is also called Texas Black Haw and Texas Buckthorn. It is one of the
most widely distributed plants in the state and is known everywhere
as a nuisance. When it gets a start no amount of digging will eradicate
it; however this is in its favor when one wishes a plant to help in the
stopping of erosion. In places where it has been used for that purpose
it has been found to be just the plant. It also should be used by any-
one wishing a small low-growing tree that has attractive branches and
fruits.

Karwinskia Humboldtiana (R. and S.) Zucc. Coyotillo. A shrub common
to sections 3 and parts of 5 and 6. A low-growing plant with smooth
brown bark and bearing beautifully veined, dark green leaves. In early
summer the bush is covered by numerous green ﬂowers which are
followed during the winter with shiny brown berries. The shrub always
has a fresh vigorous appearance. It is easily transplanted by root
divisions and has been utilized to some extent in section 3 in yard
work. This plant is destined to become an ornamental throughout the
southern half of Texas; just how far north it will grow is problematical.
This species has a reputation of being poisonous to livestock; however
it is seldom eaten by them if there is anything else to be had, and it
is to be said that many of the favorite ornamentals of commerce also
possess poisonous qualities. This species should be made available to the
growers of native plants.

Rhamnus caroliniana Walt., var. molle Fernald. A small tree with almost
white bark, growing to a height of from twenty-ﬁve to thirty feet. It
is native of section 5 but is also found in parts of 4A and is growing
under cultivation in section 4B. The tree is upright in its manner of
growth, bears numerous ovate, green leaves, and in the fall of the year
has a large cluster of red berries. The plant is easily grown from the
fruits and can be transplanted from the wild. This is a model where
a single small tree is needed in parks or in a yard.

VITAGEAE

Cissus Ampelopsfs Pers. Simple Leafed Ampelopsis. A strong-gowing
vine resembling a grape. It is of quick growth, produces very large
leaves, and makes a nice cover for any kind of a trellis. It produces
a few small, blue grape-like fruits which are edible. This vine is recom-
mended where a large amount of space is to be covered by a hardy
vine. It is adapted for river banks and to protect the sides of ravines
and steep moist hills. Commercial.

VALUABLE PLANTS NATIVE TO TEXAS 79

Cissus arboreia (L.) Des Moulins. Pepper Vine of South Texas. A rapid-
growing vine bearing many pinnately divided leaves, small yellow ﬂowers
and clusters of red berries. This vine is a native to all of Texas east
and south of Austin, but will grow anywhere planted. It has in its
favor its ability to grow under the most trying circumstances. As a
plant to aid in the control of erosion in the southeastern part of Texas,
this plant is excellent. As a quick cover for a trellis or similar structure,
one can make no mistake in trying this vine. Commercial.

Oissus incisa (Nutt.) Des Moulins. Cow Itch or Yerba del Buey. A strong-
growing vine, annual above ground, bearing a three-parted succulent
leaf. This plant is confused with poison ivy and is wrongly accused of
being poisonous to the skin of cattle. So far as is known, this plant
has no objectionable features. It grows from woody tubers which are
produced in abundance. To grow this plant, it is necessary only to
secure one of these tubers and plant it. Sometime during the year it
will put up a stalk which may grow to a length of thirty or forty feet,
bearing numerous branches and numerous succulent green leaves. In the
fall of the year it is covered by blue-black grape-like fruits which are
not poisonous but are not palatable. They are favorites of birds. Because
of the ease of transplanting, this vine is recommended to anyone wish~
ing a cover for any kind of a shelter.

Parthenocissus heptaphylla (Buckl.) Small. Seven-leafed Ivy. This is
the common Texas form of the Virginiana Creeper or Woodbine. P. quin-
quefolda (L.) Planch occurs in sections 4, 4B, and 1, while P. hepto-
phylla occurs in sections 7A, 4A, 4, 3, and 5. Both vines are easily trans-
planted or can be grown from cuttings. They live through many years
making a ﬁne growth, are not poisonous, and give a desired shade through-
out the summer. In fall the leaves turn red which adds to the attractive-
ness of these vines. Commercial.

Vltis candicans Engelm. Mustang Grape. This is perhaps the best known
vine in Texas and will grow anywhere within the state. Where a
tall-growing beautiful vine is needed for park or roadside plantings,
the mustang grape should be the choice. It has many purposes besides
that of supplying shade and beauty. The grapes themselves have some
commercial value. The fallen fruits are a favorite food of turkeys
and other poultry. Where one wishes to raise other grapes the more
choice forms can be grafted into a mustang root, thus assuring longer
life for the introduced grape.

Vitis Lincecumii Buckl. Lincecum’s Grape. A peculiar vine found in
sections 4, 4B, and 6. It grows more as a shrub than as a vine, its
longest branches being not more than four feet. The factthat this
grape will grow in almost any kind of soil, always looks fresh, possesses
large beautiful leaves, and under protection from livestock, produces
each year an abundant crop of fair-sized edible grapes, makes it a
valuable hedge, a screen to hide foundations, or a windbreak.

Vitis monticola Buckl. Mountain Grape. A species native to sections 7A,
4A, and 5 and probably elsewhere. The plant produces numerous small
stems of small diameter which grow to a. length of twenty to thirty

80 BULLETIN NO. 551, TEXAS AGRICULTURAL EXPERIMENT STATION

feet. The leaves are not large, being less than two inches in length.
They are light green, smooth and thin. In August and September this
grape, which grows more like a bush than a vine, produces quite large
clusters of dark blue grapes. These are much sought after for preserv-
ing by those who live in the vicinity. This vine has the properties of
looking fresh and prosperous no matter What kind of weather. It has
been used to considerable extent for covering trellises and fences through-
out the Edwards Escarpment country and should be used elsewhere.
There are sixteen species of wild grapes in Texas and most of them will
pay to cultivate. In selecting a vine which is expected to give shade
through a number of years, a grape native to the section where it is
to be planted should be chosen.

Vitis rotundifolia Michx. Muscadine Grape. A grape found largely in
sections 1 and 4B but will grow under cultivation in 3, 5, and 4A. It is
found growing in ravines and occasionally along river banks. The main
vine grows to considerable length, however the laterals are short and
much branched. The leaves are less than two inches in diameter and
are not shaped like grape leaves. This species produces the most
peculiar fruits of all of the grapes. While it produces abundantly, the
cluster seldom bears more than four fruits. These are sometimes three-
fourths of an inch in diameter. The rind is quite thick and the pulp
of the interior very pleasing to the taste. This grape is of commercial
value especially in the southeastern states. It and its white variety
should be grown in eastern Texas.

TILIACEAE

Tilia Linn or Basswood. This is the most famous honey-producing tree
of the United States. However in Texas it does not occur in suﬂicient
quantity to be of great value to the beekeeper. Four species occur but
nowhere in any great numbers.

Tilia caroliniana Mill. Basswood of the Southeastern United States. It
is found sparingly and in local colonies in Texas east of Austin. It is
one which should be used in parks and roadside plantings throughout
East Texas. It is a tall stately tree with large heart-shaped leaves.
Commercial.

Tilta floridana Small. This is the form of basswood found in central
Texas where it occurs in small colonies in the canyons of the eastern
Edwards Plateau country. Its numbers should be increased in this
section by roadside and yard plantings.

Tilia phanera Sarg. The Basswood having the widest distribution
in Texas. The tree is found in some places in section 5 in suﬂicient
numbers to make it valuable to the beekeeper. The trees are of such
size that some lumber is made from them. It is of quick growth
and should be used in roadside plantings through sections 4, 4B, and 1.

VALUABLE PLANTS NATIVE TO TEXAS A 81

MALVACEAE

Oallirrhoe digitata N'utt. Annual Wine Cup. Native of central Texas and
will grow anywhere planted. The plant under cultivation reaches a
height of from two t0 three feet and bears numerous wine-red ﬂowers
about one and one-half inches in diameter. The seed should be sown
about Christmas and blooms may be expected by the ﬁrst of April. It
will bloom throughout the summer. The seed of this plant and its
several horticultural varieties are on market.

Gallirrhoe involucrata (Nutt.) A. Gray. Perennial Wine Cup. A very
widely distributed perennial plant but not very well known. The under-
ground root is a quite heavy tuber which gives rise to annual leaves
and ﬂowers. The leaves seldom reach a height of more than six to
eight inches. The plant bears numerous wine-red ﬂowers some of them
reaching a diameter of more than two inches. This plant has wonderful
possibilities -as a border or bed plant in yards as the tubers can be
planted and will remain there giving service year after year. Com-
mercial.

Oienfuegosia sulphurea (St. Hil.) Garcke. A little known but beautiful
member of the mallow family. It is a low-growing perennial shrub-
like plant native of the Gulf Coast of Texas. The stems are red brown
and weak. The leaves are inconspicuous and not borne in numbers,
however, in early spring and again after rains, this plant bears yellowish
green ﬂowers about two inches in diameter which are extremely beauti-
ful. In a few places where they have been transplanted to yards and
given attention, the branches have made abundant growth and the plant
has produced many more ﬂowers than it does in nature. This plant
has wonderful possibilities as it needs little attention with the exception
of protecting it from livestock and other plants. It is a native of
sections 4, 4B, 2, and 3.

Hibiscus cardiophyllus A. Gray. Silver Leaf Hibiscus. A typical hibiscus
plant with heart-shaped silver gray leaves growing to the height of four
to ﬁve feet, bearing throughout the entire year ﬁve-petaled red ﬂowers
from one and one-half inches to three inches in diameter. This plant
deserves the attention of everyone in sections 4, 4B, 2, 3, and 5 who
desires a beautiful ornamental.

Hibiscus lasiocarpus Cav. The Hairy-fruited Rose Mallow. Native to
sections 1, 2, 3, and in some places in 4 and 4B. This plant which is
well known in cultivation will grow anywhere that water is available
in parks or along streams. It makes a ﬁne plant to grow in connection
with a lily pool or goldﬁsh pool. Commercial.

Hibiscus miliiaris Cav. The halba-rd Leaf Rose Mallow. This plant is
probably more hardy than H. Zasiocarpus. The ﬂowers are produced in
greater abundance and the plants only need moist ground in which to
grow. They do not need any large quantities of water. Many places
they are grown in the blackland prairies of section 4. It is hardy
and blooms abundantly in the vicinity of San Antonio on the upland.
It should be very widely used. Commercial.

82 BULLETIN NO. 551, TEXAS AGRICULTURAL EXPERIMENT STATION

Hibiscus Moscheutos L. Rose Mallow. This is the seaside mallow and
should be abundantly planted through sections 2 and 3. It will, how-
ever, grow anywhere and is a nice addition to any collection of water-
loving plants. Commercial.

Malvaviscus Drummondii T. and G. Shrub or small tree found abundantly
through sections 4A, 4, 4B, 1, 2, 3, and 5 and will grow anywhere
planted. It produces numerous green leaves two and one-half inches to
three inches across. Through the summer it bears spikes of bright
red malva ﬂowers which are followed by light red apple-like fruits.
Because of the hardiness of this plant it should be used for roadside
planting and in parks. As a specimen plant it is very beautiful; how-
ever to obtain the best results, this plant must have the old wood cut
from it at least every two years. This is a native plant much resembling
the Turk’s Cap of commerce.

Sphaemlcea coccinca (Pursh) Rydb. A low-growing herb having a peren-
nial underground root stalk and a low cluster of woody annual stems,
which bear throughout the summer numerous pink to red malva ﬂowers.
This is one of the best plants for roadside and park plantings, as it can
maintain itseif in spite of much neglect and a lack of moisture. For
yard work this plant makes a ﬁne bed or can be used as a border plant.
The varieties of species are found throughout sections 7, 7A, 4A, 4,
3, 5, and 6 and will probably grow anywhere within the state. It can
be transplanted easily by root division.

Sphaeralcca anlgztstiolia (Cav.) Don. This is a malva-like plant, perennial,
and grows to a height of ﬁfteen inches. It is white through pink in
color, and one that attracts attention when seen along roadsides and
in pastures. It should be very widely cultivated, as it will maintain
itself and give an all-summer bloom with little care. The plant should
receive some cultivation and protection from livestock. It can be propa-
gated by root division. The malva family contains a large number of
ornamentals. Those wishing to obtain new and attractive ornamentals
should watch their native species of this family and transfer them to their
proving grounds for testing.

HYPERICACEAE

Ilypericztm aureuwt Bartr. Golden St. Johns-wort. A native of section
5. A low-growing shrub with hard green leaves and bearing at intervals
throughout the spring and early summer numerous golden yellow ﬂowers
up to two inches in diameter. This shrub is excellent as a bedding
plant, especially along edges of walls and foundations of buildings where
it will grow in dense shade, thus ﬁlling a place which no other plant will
occupy. The bush is easily transplanted. Commercial.

TAMARICACEAE

Tanzaria: articulata Vahl. Aethyl or Evergreen Tamarix. A tall-growing
salt cedar which is evergreen but does not do well except in the southern
part of section 3. It is recommended for extensive use through that
section as a windbreak, a roadside tree, and for yard planting.

VALUABLE PLANTS NATIVE TO TEXAS 83

Tamarix gallica L. Salt Cedar. The most common in cultivation. It has
become very abundant throughout Trans-Pecos Texas and the high and
low plains where it becomes the dominant plant. It can withstand a
great deal of cold and should be used for windbreaks and hedge plantings.

Tamaria: pentandra Pall. A form of Tamarix which is almost tree-like in
its growth. The bark is red and the ﬂowers a very bright red. This
plant should be used in yard work throughout all of the state of Texas.
All species of this genus are commercial.

FOUQUIERIAOEAE

Fouquiera splendens Engelm. Ocotillo. This most spectacular plant of
sections 5 and 6 has become very popular for roadside and park work
during the past few years. It needs little introduction. It can be had
from nurseries, and where suﬂiciently Well drained lime soils are avail-
able, it will give good service.

VIOLACEAE

Hybanthus verticillatus (Ort.) Baill. A common plant throughout sections
7, 7A, 4A, 4, 4B, 1, 3, 5, and 6 but is a little known plant. It consists of
a perennial bush-like growth about one foot high above the ground,
bearing numerous small lanceolate leaves and during most of the sum-
mer having very numerous small violet-shaped ﬂowers. These are red
and white in color and not over a sixteenth of an inch in diameter. The
plants when once established are very attractive and under cultivation
grow to double the normal size. This plant can be propagated either
by transplanting from the wild, or from seed. It can be found almost any-
where in the state during the ﬁrst part of the summer. As a plant for
a rock garden, or where a choice collection of plants is maintained, this
is a ﬁne addition.

Viola lanceolata L. Blue Violet of sections 4A, 4, 4B, 2, and 3. It has
leaves about two inches long and one-half inch wide, and bears in early
spring numerous blue violets. It is a choice violet to grow in yards,
especially wherever shade and moisture are abundant. Commercial.

Viola missouriensls Greene. The most abundant blue violet in Texas.
Found in sections 4A, 4, 4B, 1, 3, 5, and probably elsewhere. This
violet, which is characteristic of the family, bears pale blue ﬂowers
throughout early spring and can be found in almost any piece of sheltered
woodland especially along water courses. Responds to cultivation and
makes very abundant growth. Commercial.

Viola peclata L. Bird Foot Violet. Sometimes called Wild Pansy as it has
three petals of light blue and two petals of maroon. The leaves are

. divided palmately into from ﬁve to seven divisions supposed to resemble

a bird’s foot, hence its name. The plant is found throughout sections
1 and 2. It responds to cultivation and can be multiplied by root division
or by seed. This rapidly disappearing wild pansy should be very exten-
sively grown in parks and. yards by those who wish rare and choice
plants.

84 BULLETIN NO. 551, TEXAS AGRICULTURAL EXPERIMENT STATION

Viola primulifolia L. Primrose Violet. A species common to East Texas
wherever very moist conditions occur. This violet does not require
shade but will grow on the edge of lakes in the full sun. The leaves are
about one-half inch wide and three to four inches long. The numerous
violet-shaped‘ ﬂowers produced are white with an indication of pink. The
plant is very easily grown by root division and should have a place in
every water garden. It can be'grown in small lily pools and in some
places it is even grown in aquariums. Commercial.

Viola sagittata Ait. Arrow Leaf Violet. Native of woodlands of sections
1 and 2 but is grown under cultivation in sections 4, 4B, and 3 and will
grow elsewhere wherever it is given some shade and moisture. Under
cultivation the plant grows much larger and produces many more ﬂowers
than it does in the wild. Commercial.

Each of the ﬁfteen species of violets, found in the state, and of the
numerous varieties within the species, is worthy of a place in culti-
vation. Flower growers are advised to seek out and cultivate their
local violets.

PASSIFLORACEAE

Passiﬂora incarnata L. May Pop. This is the common and well-known
red passion ﬂower of East Texas. It maintains itself in the wild
throughout southeast Texas and is grown to such an extent in the north-
eastern part of the state that it can be found native almost anywhere;
however it is killed by heavy frost. The plant needs no introduction.
The large red purple and white ﬂowers are ornamental through the
whole summer and the peculiarly formed fruits eagerly sought by chil-
dren and poultry are quite ornamental. Commercial.

Passiﬂora Zutoa L. A perennial tall-growing passion vine, very common
but little known. The underground part is perennial. In spring a
number of stems come from this root and climb on the nearest support.
The leaves are three-lobed about one and one-half inches across and
are variegated in color. The stems are light green and climb by tendrils.
As a rule the vine reaches a height of from sixteen to twenty feet. In
the middle of summer it bears numerous yellow typical passion ﬂowers
about three-fourths of an inch in diameter. These ﬂowers are followed
by purple berries. The berries have a juice which possesses the prop-
erty of imparting a lasting purple color to anything stained with it.
It was used by the Indians as a source of dye. This plant can be grown
from seed or by planting in root cuttings. It is a very handsome vine
and will repay the work placed upon it.

Passiﬂora tenuiloba Engelm. Small White Passion Flower. This very
little known vine grows to a height of from four to ﬁve feet and may
have a number of stems arising from the same perennial underground
root stalk. The vine is peculiar in that the leaf has a width of nearly
three inches and a length of less than one-half inch which gives it a
very odd appearance. It seems as if the leaves were attached at the

VALUABLE PLANTS NATIVE TO TEXAS 85

wrong place. In summer the plant produces numerous typical white
passion ﬂowers almost one inch in diameter which are followed later by
dark green pulpy fruits. This plant makes an excellent addition to any
collection of rare plants or to a rock garden. It is best obtained by
hunting out a plant early in the spring and digging out the perennial
root. The plant can be told by the peculiar leaves which are so much
wider than they are long.

LOASACEAE

Oevallia sinuata Lag. This plant which is found in sections 7, 7A, 5, and
6 will grow anywhere that Cactus will grow, especially if it receives
the attention of the cactus enthusiast. The plant grows from a perennial
root. Aboveground it is an intricate mass of spiny leaves of deep
green, and bears in the late summer clusters of very peculiar pale pink
ﬂower stalks. The ﬂowers are so hidden Within the spinose bracts as
to be inconspicuous. As a member of any cactus collection or a plant
for any rock garden there is nothing better than this. It can be grown
from seed or obtained by root cuttings. Commercial.

Eucnjde bartonioi-des Zucc. Plant native to sections 4A, 4, 4B, 1, 3, 5, and
6. The plant is vine-like, sprawling over shrubbery. The green leaves
are covered with hooked hairs by which the leaves become attached to
the clothes of the passers-by so that an encounter with one of these
vines leaves the victim covered with green leaves which can be removed
only by shaving them from the clothes. Throughout the summer
this vine-like relative of the cacti bear small yellow cactus-like ﬂowers.
As an oddity and as a member of a rock or desert garden, this plant
is admirable. It has a perennial root stalk, making it easy to transplant.

Mentzelia. A genus very close to Cacti. It has ten species scattered
through the state all of which are worthy of cultivation. It is known
as a plant growing from a heavy underground tuberous root. The stem

'is upright, bearing numerous lanceolate leaves which are somewhat

smooth and bear bristles. The ﬂowers are borne on the upper part of
the plant, in the axils of the leaves in some species, in terminal clusters
in others. The ﬂowers are white or yellow having from a few to many
petals and a large number of stamens. They have the peculiarity of
opening late in the afternoon and closing at sun-up. Among the species
Mentzelia decapetala (Pursh) Urban and Gilg.; Mentzelm multiﬂorrz‘
(Nutt.) A. Gray; and Mentzelia nuda (Pursh) T. and G. offer the best
opportunities for the beginner. Those seeking to grow these plants
should avail themselves of species in their neighborhood until they
become acquainted with the manner of their growth, at which time they

p should introduce species from elsewhere. One of the ﬁnest of this

group is a large white-ﬂowered variety which is found growing on the
high plains along the breaks of the Canadian and Palo Duro. These
ﬂowers sometimes are four inches in diameter.

86 BULLETIN NO. 551, TEXAS AGRICULTURAL EXPERIMENT STATION
CACTACEAE

This family which contains about one hundred species is too popular
and well known to need any comment. There is probably not a
species occurring within the state but which is now grown in gardens.
In case one wishes information as to the habitat and growing of these
plants this information can be found in “Texas Cacti” by Ellen D. Schulz
of the Witte Memorial Museum, San Antonio, Texas, who is also the
author of a book dealing altogether with the cultivation of cacti.

LYTHB~ACEAE

Lagerstroemia indica L. Grape Myrtle. A well known shrub or small
tree. Introduced but has become a native over large areas in Texas.
It also has produced many varieties. It is commercial and if one is
satisﬁed with a plant that produces large numbers of showy ﬂowers
and will grow with little attention, there is no better. Commercial.

Lythrum alatum Pursh. Winged Loosestrife. A little known but beauti-
ful annual, growing to a height of one foot or more and found in certain
localities throughout central Texas. The stem of the plant is ﬂuted
and the branches bear small wings of leaf-like material. Throughout
the spring and summer the plant is covered with rows of bright red
ﬂowers nearly one-half inch long. A group of these plants gives a great
deal of color to a small space. The plant will grow equally well in
soft soils that are cultivated and watered as in swamp lands. The
seed which can be collected by threshing the dried stalks should be
sown in February. The plant will bloom through the summer and fall.
There are several other species in this genus, all of which bear a close
resemblance and should be tried for cultivation. Introduced relatives
of this plant are among the choicest ﬂowers of gardeners.

MELASTOMACEAE

Rhexiu mariana L., var. Zeiosperma Fern. and Grisc. Maryland Meadow
Beauty. A little known plant growing in marshes and damp situations
but grows also in the open sun. The ﬂowers are about the size of the
red evening primrose. The plant is an annual with an upright stalk
and bears beautiful red ﬂowers for at least three months during the
spring and summer. This is one of the rare plants of Texas and should
be grown wherever lily pools or water plantings are available.

Rhexia wiry-mica L. Meadow Beauty. This differs from the above species
as it is a perennial and almost a shrub. It grows in section 1 and will
grow in 4A, 4, and 4B. The ﬂower resembles a small red evening prim-
rose and is about three-fourths of an inch in diameter. The ﬂowers
are borne one at a time making the bloom of the plant last through the
summer. This plant has wonderful possibilities as a perennial orna-
mental. It can be grown from seed or obtained by root division.

VALUABLE PLANTS NATIVE TO TEXAS 87
ONAGRACEAE

Gaura coccinea Pursh. Bee Blossom. Wild Buckwheat. A perennial herb
growing to a height of two feet. The plant is branched at the base,
stems numerous, and covered with thin spatulate leaves about three
inches long. Each branch bears a spike of small ﬁve-petaled ﬂowers
which are red and in age turn scarlet. It is an excellent honey plant.
It grows readily and under adverse conditions. It is a ﬁne roadside
cover and will persist in spite of much neglect and pasturing. When
cultivated in a yard, it responds to such an extent that it is one of the
most beautiful of this family. It is easily propagated by root division
and will thrive anywhere in Texas west of Houston.

Gaura odorata Sesse ex Lag. This species is so similar to the above that
they are confused by most people. In this species, however, the ﬂowers
are white when they open and turn pink before they fall. It also differs
from the ﬁrst in that it opens late in the afternoon and stays open all
night, while the other opens in the full sun. It is another excellent
honey plant and of great value as a park and wayside ornamental. A
native of all of Texas with the exception of sections 1 and 3.

Gaura parviﬁora Dougl. Velvet Leaf Gaura. A tall-growing biennial,
covered with ovate velvety leaves. It commences to bloom in early
spring and continues through the summer and fall, the plant reaching
a height of seven to eight feet. It bears numerous spikes of very small
pinkish gaura ﬂowers. It is a very common roadside weed but under
cultivation it is a spectacular plant, as it responds readily to care and
rewards the grower by an immense growth and numerous ﬂowers. As
a roadside plant to supersede ragweeds, cockleburs and other unattrac-
tive plants, this Gaura is excellent because of its strong growing habits
and the fact that it will reseed itself. It should be used wherever new
work on a large scale is being done. Later it can be replaced by other
and more showy species.

Gaura suffulta Engelm. Woody Gaura. Annual or perennial; native
throughout central Texas especially in soft soils. The plant is peculiar
in that it grows a heavy stalk about one foot high with much branching
at the top. From these branches come numerous spikes of pink and
white Gaura ﬂowers. After the seed of these ﬂowers are ripened, a set
of stems will arise from the old to a height of about one foot and a
new branch system developed from which a second set of ﬂower stalks
will arise. This process will be repeated four or ﬁve times during the
summer depending on the rainy period. This habit makes this species
a good plant for small yards and for collections of curious plants. Easily
grown from seed or by digging the plants in the wild.

Jussiaea diﬁusa Forskl. Primrose Willow. Perennial found in sections
4, 4B, 1, and 2, and probably even in the state where marshy conditions
exist. The seed are dispersed by birds so that this is one of the ﬁrst
plants to become established around newly made lakes and ponds. The
plant very much resembles a willow but bears throughout the summer
numerous bright yellow four-petaled ﬂowers over one inch across. The

88 BULLETIN NO. 551, TEXAS AGRICULTURAL EXPERIMENT STATION

plant grows on the surface of the mud in shallow water and is easily
transplanted by pulling up a portion of the plant and taking it to the
new location. This plant should be used in every water planting through
the state. The bright green leaves and numerous yellow ﬂowers make
it a spectacular plant.

Jussiaea suﬁruticosa L. Primrose Willow. This very much resembles
the above but grows on the edges of lakes rather than in the water. It
becomes woody and bears a number of yellow ﬂowers up to two inches
in diameter. The plant will persist throughout many years and will give
good service as an ornamental along any water course. Native of all
central Texas where damp conditions exist.

Oenothem biennis L. Evening Primrose. The most commoniof the yellow

evening primrose in central Texas. As it grows from a perennial root l

stalk, it is easy to maintain a perpetual bed of these ﬂowers as they
will reseed themselves on the piece of land and give a. continuous bloom,
with the exception of in the middle of the summer. It has numerous
bright yellow ﬂowers and grows to a height of better than two feet.
The plant is recommended wherever a large mass of yellow ﬂowers is
needed.

Oenothera heterophylla Spach. Tall Evening Primrose. Native to sections
7, 7A, 4A, and 5. The plant does its best in any soft soil. It puts up
a strong stem to a height of two and one-half inches when it begins to
bloom. The ﬂowers are yellow, almost three inches across, and are
borne freely throughout the summer. The plant at times reaches a.
height of six to seven feet. It received its name from the varied forms
of the lower leaves. This plant is more easily grown from seed than
obtained from the wild. The seed pods should be gathered and the seed
propagated in a coldframe, then transplanted to the permanent location.
As a specimen plant, this is one of the unique ornamentals to be brought
from the wild.

Oenothera baciniata Hill. Mexican Evening Primrose. Native of sections
4, 4B, 1, 3, and 5. It is the largest and earliest of the yellow primrose.
The ﬂowers sometimes reach a diameter of better than three inches.
The plants occur in thick colonies, and in many places during February
and March acres of land are bright yellow with this ﬂower. It comes
into bloom in the early evening and closes about the middle of the
next morning. The plant is best propagated by collecting and planting
the seed. Wlhere one has soft soils, this plant is recommended for
beds and for roadside work and as a bed plant which ﬁnishes its blooming
in time to be superseded by other and later blooming plants. Commercial.

Ocnothera serrulata Nutt. A perennial Oenothera growing to a height of
ten to ﬁfteen inches, and having wire-like stems bearing throughout the
spring numerous light yellow ﬂowers nearly two inches across. In
some of the varieties of this plant the inside of the tube is black.
Because of the stems, in many places in Texas, this is known as the
wire primrose. It is of value for roadside and park work in that it

VALUABLE PLANTS NATIVE TO TEXAS 89

remains open through the day and blooms through a long period of
time. It responds to cultivation and is easily multiplied by root division.
Native of all of central Texas.

Oenothera speciosa Nutt. Red Primrose or Hartmannia: This beautiful
pink or red primrose is well known in all portions of the state. It has
many natural varieties. The colors range from pure white to deep
red and its size ranges from one-half inch to better than four inches.
The plant is a perennial from a woody root stalk. It is best propagated
by obtaining root divisions. The plant is too well known to need further
description. It should be used as a bed plant wherever landscape work
is to be done. Commercial.

Oenothera triloba Nutt. An Oenothera growing as an annual or a peren-
nial. Native of limestone hills and in lime soils. Produces a few
smooth ovate leaves above the ground. In early spring from one to
many large yellow primrose ﬂowers are borne. Some of these are
four inches across. This large ﬂower that persists for two days is
followed by an equally large trilobate dry seed pod. As a plant for
a rock garden, or for a bed of curious plants which are ornamental,
this plant is recommended. The seed can be obtained almost anywhere
there are limestone hills. The pods should be carefully picked and
the seed planted in beds. After the young plants have established
themselves, they can be transplanted where needed. All that is required
for success is soil that has a heavy lime content, protection, and some
moisture.

Stenosiphon Zinifolius (Nutt.) Britton. Giant Gaura. A most spectacular
plant that is native to sections 7A, 7, 4A, and 4. It is probably an
invader from the plains country farther north. The plant much resembles
Gaura but grows to a height of from six to seven feet and bears on its
upper branches long spikes of white Gaura-like ﬂowers. This is a
wonderful honey plant and its only detriment is the lack of numbers.
The plant is extremely spectacular, having ﬂower spikes from eighteen
inches to two feet long all in bloom at the same time. The plant
requires soft soils with a lime content and protection from livestock.
It can be grown from seed. The seed should be planted on the per-
manent location in October and November. As soon as the plants are
up, they should be thinned and cultivated. They will commence
vigorous growth about the ﬁrst of April and should commence to
bloom in June, continuing until October. This plant occurs as a native
over much of North Central Texas and there, because it is a native,
should be used in quantity in roadside plantings. Its height and
numerous ﬂowers allow it to take its place where brush and trees
form the background.

HALORAGIDACEAE

Myriophyllum. Water Rope. This genus contains three species that are
useful wherever there is a suﬂicient amount of running or standing

90 BULLETIN NO. 551, TEXAS AGRICULTURAL EXPERIMENT STATION

water in the area to be landscaped to warrant the use of water plantings.
The feathery foliage is of value to hide muddy pools. All the plants
in this species do well in running water.

Proserpinaca ‘pectinata Lam. The tall-growing wa-ter Weed. A species
which will grow in any piece of permanent water. During the winter
the stems with ﬁliform leaves ﬁll a portion of the pool. In early
spring, stems rise above the water forming a mass of light green
peculiarly shaped branches on which the small white ﬂowers are borne.
This plant has been long used in water plantings and as it is a native
in Texas, it should be widely used Where new water plantings are to
be made.

ARALIACEAE

Aralia spinosa L. Hercules’ Club. A plant found native in section 1 but
will grow in sections 4A, 4, 4B, 2, 3, and 5. A most peculiar plant
which grows as a small tree. The ﬁrst part of its life, it puts up a
strong straight stem to a height of from eighteen to twenty feet
seldom over two inches in diameter, but with hard wood and bark
similar to any tree. It bears no branches or leaves on this trunk.
During this growth period it will bear terminal clusters of large
pinnate leaves. Having reached this height each spring the plant
bears from two to six pinnately divided leaves sometimes thirty inches
in diameter and from the terminal bud, produces an enormous ﬂat
topped cluster of small ﬂowers sometimes twenty-four inches in diameter.
These clusters are followed by coral red berries. There is no more
spectacular plant which is native to Texas. Where moist and shady
conditions occur in parks or in yards, a specimen of this plant will be
a great addition to the interesting plants. It can be grown by obtaining
the young plants in the wild or from the seed.

UMBELLIFERAE

Oicuta maculata L. Wild Parsnip. There is little to recommend the use
of this plant which bears the reputation it has for its poisonous root
stalks; however for a water planting in marshes or lakes, no matter
where located, this is one of the most beautiful of pants. Its fern-
like foliage and its numerous white ﬂowers make it well worthy of a
place. It can be obtained through root divisions and is most easily
grown but it does not run Wild and become obnoxious. The Umbellifer
family is well represented by a large number of weeds which are common
all over Texas. These are called Queen Anne’s Lace, Dill, Wild Celery,
and Wild Carrots. Among the species named Queen Anne’s Lace are
the well-known pot-herbs: _ cummin, coriander, chervil, and others.
These plants undoubtedly have come from the yards of the pioneers
as they are quite common along all roadsides where early in the spring
they are the most beautiful masses of White and pink ﬂowers which
extend for miles through river valleys and black land sections. Any
or all of these species should be grown according to the desires of
the gardener. The seed is easily gathered and should be planted in
early winter.

VALUABLE PLANTS NATIVE TO TEXAS 91

Eryngium Hoolceri Walp. Native to river valleys and black soils through-
out Texas. It is a semi—prostrate plant having stiff cut leaves and
bearing through the summer small heads 0f brilliant purple ﬂowers.
Where water stands along roadsides followed by mud ﬂats in the
summer and fall, this is the cover that is needed. It will grow in such
situations and completely hide the muddy water and mud ﬂats. To
the attention of planting and establishing the colony must be added
the collecting of the dead stalks each fall, because during dry times in
the winter, the plants blow from the growing places and become a
nuisance, owing to the hard stiff stems. A desirable plant for pre-
liminary work in massed landscaping.

Eryngium Leavenworthii T. and G. Purple Eryngium. A most beautiful
plant found through the entire state wherever soft and somewhat moist
areas occur. Plants grow to a height of three to four feet. In July
and August it bears large heads of purple bracts from which come the
small greenish ﬂowers. In addition to these dense clusters of purple
bracts larger and leaf-like bracts which are bronze in color occur both
above and below the spike. After about a month of blooming the spike
loses the purple color and turns green. The seed is ripe about the
middle of October when it should be gathered. If scattered immediately
in localities similar to where the plant grew, protected from cattle, and
thinned in the spring, one can easily reproduce one of the beautiful
purple spots that adorn some of the plains of Texas.

Eryngium. yuccifoliuwt Michx. Button Snake Root. A perennial arising
from a tuberous root which is found in sections 4A, 4, 4B, and 1 but
will grow in 7, 7A, and probably 3. During most of the year the plant
very much resembles a yucca. In May and June it produces a heavy
stalk of about three feet high, bearing single long yucca-like leaves and
at intervals along the stem. This is topped by an umbel of green ﬂower
clusters about an inch in diameter. The plant while a native of wet
places will grow wherever it is cultivated and is an addition to any
formal garden and also has its place in a rock garden or as a specimen
plant in yards. Commercial.

Hydrocotyle u/mbellata L. A peculiar water-loving plant which bears
numerous disc-like leaves attached by the centers. It grows in abundance
along the edges of lakes, spring holes, and marshes. Because of differing
sizes of the disc leaves, this plant is known as Nickels and Dimes by
the school children. The plant produces small umbels of yellow-white
ﬂowers throughout the summer. This plant is quite desirable for an
edge plant along lakes and other water plantings. There are several
species of Hydrocotyle. The gardener should use the species native in
his immediate vicinity.

Tauschia teznana A. Gray. A member of the parsley family that seemingly
has no common name. It is a native of river valleys and marshy land
ln sections 4B, 1, and 2. It has no stalk above the ground. Through
the winter and early spring it bears numerous fern-like leaves which lie
ﬂat on the ground and as soon as the ﬁrst warm days come, it produces

92 BULLETIN NO. 551, TEXAS AGRICULTURAL EXPERIMENT STATION

numerous golden yellow clusters of common umbellifer ﬂowers. It is
a very desirable species to plant in parks as this plant does its best
under the shade of trees. As soon as it blooms it disappears, and is
absent until late fall when the new green leaves add color to the winter
landscape. The underground root is easily transplanted or the plant
can be grown from seed.

CORNA GEAE

Oornus asperifolia Michx. Rough Leaf Dogwood. This small growing tree
is common in moist situations in sections 7A, 4A, 4, 4B, and 1. The
plant is very showy because of the smooth stems of its numerous water
sproutswhich are dark red. The leaves are borne in large numbers,
and are ovate and beautifully veined. In spring it bears clusters of small
white ﬂowers. This species can be used to advantage wherever plantings
are being made along water fronts or in parks having Water areas,
and for roadside work as the road approaches the crossing of a stream.

Oornus ﬂorida L. Flowering Dogwood. A tree too well known to need any
recommendation. It is native to sections 4B, 1, and 2, and will probably
grow in parts of 7A, 4A, 3, and 5. Because of diﬂiculties encountered
in transplanting, it should be purchased from nurseries where only a
specimen plant or a few trees are desired. Where large plantings are
to be made the seed should be planted in leaf mold in deep shade. In
two years the seedlings will be sufficiently large to transplant to the
permanent location. As a single tree to be used for yard or park work
it is better to procure one that is six or seven years old as the young
trees need much shade in order to make strong growth.

Garrya Lindheiaateri Torr. Silk Tassel Bush. A native of sections 7A, 4A,
and 5 and will grow anywhere in the state if planted and given a small
amount of protection. Its growth is regulated by moisture and soil.
Where the moisture supply is small the plant is a shrub, but where
moisture is plentiful, it becomes a tree twenty to thirty feet in height.
The leaves are almost coriaceous and covered with considerable wool.
In early spring it bears silky white spikes from which the small pink
ﬂowers protrude. In fall these spikes are followed by clusters of blue
berries. The plant is not common even in its habitat but is sufficiently
beautiful to warrant its cultivation. It is most easily obtained by
growing from seed.

Nyssa aquatica L. Big Tupelo. The water gum of East Texas. Will grow
anywhere in sections 4B, 1, and 2 and should be largely used as a road-
side tree through those parts. Because of the ease with Which young
plants can be obtained, the tree should be a favorite and used because
of its beauty.

Nyssa sylvatica Marsh. Upland Tupelo. This is the common upland gum
of East Texas and should be used in yard and park plantings wherever
such are being made. The tree always presents a pleasing appearance.
It can be obtained easily and will give service for many years.

VALUABLE PLANTS NATIVE TO TEXAS 93
ERICACEAE

Arbutus texana Buckl. Texas Madrono. A most beautiful and peculiar
tree found in sections 4A, 5, and 6, where it occurs only on high rocky
uplands and in canyons in mountains. At the eastern end of its range
it occurs as a small tree up to three inches in diameter and twelve to
fourteen feet in height. In the mountains of West Texas, 1t often
reaches a diameter of two feet and a height of forty to ﬁfty feet. It
has smooth red to gray bark, ovate, coriaceous, green leaves, and bears
in early spring large clusters of greenish white ﬂowers which are bell
shaped. In the fall of the year the trees are covered with red fruits
which have a surface resembling the skin of an orange. This is one of
the most spectacular trees of Texas and if not cultivated will become
extinct because of the inroads of agriculture and ranching. The cattle
destroy the stems not so much by grazing as by tramping them from

the soil. To obtain specimens one must procure the fruits and grow
them in seed shelters. This tree should be made available by some
nursery.

Lyonia ligustrina (L.) DC. White Alder. Small shrub growing in the
damp woods of East Texas which bears through the early summer
numerous white bell-shaped ﬂowers which are very attractive. This and
its larger relative Lyonia mariana (L.) D. Don., which is larger in growth
and more extensive in distribution, should be planted wherever moist
and shady situations occur in sections 4, 4B, and 1. While the plants
are very common in section 6 they will become extinct if not taken into
cultivation as they are rapidly disappearing through pasturing and ﬁres.

Rhododendron canescens (Michx.) D. Don. Hoary Azalea. A native of
sections 1 and 2 but will grow in sections 4A, 4, and 4B. This and
Rhododendron oblongifolium (Small) Millais, pink azalea, as well as Rhodo-
dendron visoosum (L.) Torr., white azalea, are similar species, all of which
are known as azalea wherever found. They are natives of moist and marshy
places but will grow even in many parts of sections 4A, 4, 4B, and probably
in 5. These most beautiful plants should be cultivated to save them from
extinction. Because of the showiness of the plants when in bloom, few of
them remain anywhere near a public road as the ﬁrst passerby has but
one idea, to take it with him, only to ﬁnd that the ﬂower soon wilts.
Wherever one wishes beautiful and rare plants, these three species can
be recommended.-

Vaccinium arboreunt Marsh. Tree Huckleberry. A small round-topped
tree native to sections 4, 4B, 1, and parts of 3. Its red brown bark,
intricate branches, and small ovate leaves make it attractive. In early
spring it is covered by numerous white ﬂowers followed in the middle
of summer by glossy dark red berries. It is very desirable as a specimen
plant in parks and yards, and can be grown from the seed or dug from
the wild. Commercial. Several other varieties of blueberries occur in
East Texas and one along the Gulf Coast. The berries are hot very
edible but the plant with its red barked stems and light green leaves
makes a very attractive hedge or specimen plant. They can be obtained
through nurseries or dug from the wild.

94 BULLETIN NO. 551, TEXAS AGRICULTURAL EXPERIMENT STATION
PLUMBAGINACEAE

Limonium brasiliense (Boiss.) Small. Sea Lavender, Sta-tice. A peculiar
plant common to the entire water front of the Gulf Coast where it grows
in salt ﬂats and salt marshes. It has smooth large palmate leaves which lie
ﬂat on the ground. Through the summer and fall, it puts up clusters
of numerous tiny purple ﬂowers which are everlasting, the color remain-
ing for months after the ﬂower has become a fruit. This plant is
recommended for trial. It is abundant along the seacoast, making it
easy to obtain. It has a heavy underground root stalk.

Plumbago soandens L. Texas Plumbago. A shrub-like plant growing in
section 8 where it is found in deep thickets along the Gulf Coast and
the Lower Rio Grande. It will grow under cultivation in parts of 4, 4B,
1, and 2 and should be tried. The plant is confused with the cultivated
plumbago; however this ﬂower is white, only one-half inch across and
borne on a long stem which is peculiarly colored, making the cluster
quite attractive. The plant is evergreen and bears ﬂowers throughout
the year. It can be obtained through root divisions or grown fromseed.

PRIMULACEAE

Dodocatheon llleadia L. Shooting Star. A rare plflnt in sections 4A, 4,
4B, 2 and in one place in section 5. It grows in moist and shady locations
where a continual supply of seep water is available. The plant has a
heavy underground root stalk. In winter it puts out a rosette of spatulate
green leaves about six inches long which have red midribs. In early
spring it sends up numerous straight stems to a height of ten to twelve
inches. The stalks are red and produce from the top eight to ten very
peculiar red ﬂowers. This is one of the most beautiful of the native
ﬂowering plants. It should be very widely grown wherever opportunities
are offered. It will grow and do well if one gives it some cultivation and.
considerable water in early spring. It has been grown on the black land
prairies of section 4 where the only care it receives is that commonly
given to garden plants, and is planted on the north side of the house.
In early spring it needs considerably more water than the other plants
and rewards the gardener by numerous blooms. This plant can be
purchased from many ﬂorists.

Hottonia inﬂata Ell. American Feather Foil. Probably the most peculiar
ﬂowering plant in Texas. It consists of a number of hollow stems which
ﬂoat on the surface of pools. The leaves, too, are inﬂated and can
hardly be recognized as the same as the leaves of other plants. In
summer it bears small inconspicuous ﬂowers. It is an addition to any
water garden or lily pool, and has a place in mass water planting along
the edges of lakes. Native of sections 4B, 1, and 2 and will grow
anywhere that it is given suﬂicient water.

Samolus alyssoides Heller. This is a wide-leafed plant which grows in the
edge of the salt water on the Gulf Coast. Throughout the summer it
bears delicate spikes of white and pink bell-shaped ﬂowers. It is

VALUABLE PLANTS NATIVE TO TEXAS 95

adapted to landscape work where there is salt in the soils. It should be
used along the Gulf Coast where native plants are to be used around
hotels and summer resorts.

Samolus cuneatus Small. A very delicate plant found only where much
moisture and shade occur. Found through sections 4A, 4, 4B, 1, and
parts of 3 and 5. For park work where fountains or water fronts occur,
this plant should be used in connection with maiden hair ferns as they
ﬂourish under similar conditions. The Samolus has cuneate green leaves
which lie ﬁat on the ground. Through the summer it produces spikes
of very small white ﬂowers. It can be obtained easily as seedling plants
in the Wild. After these have become established, the plant will take
care of itself.

SAPOTACEAE

Bumelia Schottii Britton. Ironwood. A small round-topped tree native to
section 3 but will grow in 4, 4B, and 5. The tree is evergreen, being
covered with shiny coriaceous leaves, oval, and about three-fourths of
an inch long. The tree is peculiar in that it bears clusters of green-
colored ﬂowers about one-fourth of an inch across through November
to January. These are followed by blue plum-like fruits about three-
fourths of an inch long which are ripened in April and May. Because of
its dense dark green foliage, its small size, and peculiarity of ﬂowers
and fruits, it should be much utilized through the sections in which
it will grow. It is very probable that this plant has possibilities as a
fruit tree and as a source of chicle. The Mexicans in section 3 call it
chicle and obtain that substance from the tree by bleeding, which occurs
when the fruits are picked green. The plant can be grown from seed.
There are eight other species of Bumelia native to the state of Texas.
None of them occurs in pure stand and all are worthy of being grown
as specimen plants. As a rule they are a smooth tree with dark green
leaves and brown bark. These trees should be made available for
planting by nurseries.

EBENACEAE

Diospyros tearana Scheele. Black or Mexican Persimmon. Native of
sections 4A, 4, 4B, 3, 5, and 6. Small slow-growing tree with spatulate
leaves, dark green, and covered with wool. The bark of the tree is
green in youth and white in old age. In spring the tree produces
numerous yellow bell-shaped ﬂowers which make this plant one of the
best early honey plants. These ﬂowers are followed in the middle of
summer by black fruits about three-fourths of an inch in diameter
which are ﬁlled with sweet pulp and brown seeds. The fruits are
relished by all wild animals and eaten to considerable extent locally.
The objection to the fruit is that it stains the skin a sooty black, which
persists for several days. The plant received the name of Capote as
the Mexican women use the ripe persimmon in making a hair dye. The
tree is easily grown from seed and makes a good addition to a collection
of trees and is adaptable to roadside work through section 8.

96 _ BULLETIN NO. 551, TEXAS AGRICULTURAL EXPERIMENT STATION

Diospyros virgmiana L. Eastern Persimmon. A plant too well known t0
need comment. Native to sections 4B, 1, and 2 and will grow in 7A, 4A,
4, 3, and 5. It is a beautiful tree and the fruits are somewhat desirable.
A good tree for shade especially for roadside planting in sections 7A,
4A, 3 and 4.

STYRACACEAE

Halesia diptera Ellis. This is the Silver Bell or Snow-drop trees of the
Gulf Coast. It will, however, grow in sections 4, 4B, 1, and 3 and should
be tried. It is a beautiful tree and can be obtained from nurseries.

Styraa: americana. Lam. The large Silver Bell Tree. Native to sections
4B, 1, and 2 and is growing in cultivation in parts of 4 and 3. Like the
small silver bell tree, it can be had in all of its varieties from nurseries.
It should be planted in the sections recommended. '

OLEACEAE

Ohionanthus virginica L. White Fringe Tree. Native of sections 4B, 1,
and 2. A beautiful tree resembling ash, reaching a height of ten to
ﬁfteen feet. In early spring this tree appears to be covered with a mass
of small white streamers, which are the slender petals of its numerous
ﬂowers. As an attractive specimen tree or a small tree for a yard there
can be no better one chosen. It is recommended for trial in sections 4A,
4, 3, and 5. Commercial.

Forestiera pubescens Nutt. Elbow Bush. A peculiar shrub having a long
recurved stem which bears branches at right angles. Wherever a branch
touches the ground it takes root. The total height of the bush is seldom
more than a few feet. It is covered throughout the summer with
numerous leaves. This makes an ideal shelter for wild animals; hence
the names turkey-shed and wolf-shed given this bush. This species is
one of the earliest plants to bloom in the spring. The staminate bushes
often are brilliant yellow with the masses of stamens which are produced
in the axils of the leaf scars. This bush makes a ﬁne erosion control
plant. It is also good for hedges, and where one is planting cover for
birds, no better plant exists. It can be grown from cuttings or from
seed. There are seven other species in the state; however, they are so
similar in their looks and habits that they are much confused. All of
them have the same characteristics and the same cultural value.

Framinus amlericana L. White Ash. A well-known tree native in sections
4B and 1. The tree is grown in cultivation through the whole of Texas.
It is available from nurseries and is a shade tree with a pleasing
appearance.

Fraxinus caroliniana Mill. Water Ash. A low-growing ash common to
damp localities-. Where an ash tree is needed that can stand much
moisture, this one should be chosen. It is not very different from the
other species of the genus with the exception of very large seed pods.
Commercial.

viva" i.

VALUABLE PLANTS NATIVE‘ TO TEXAS 97

Frawinus pennsylvanica Marsh, var. Za-nceolata (Buckl.) Sarg. Green Ash.
The native ash of sections 3, 4, and 5. Common in cultivation as a yard
plant and should be still more largely used. Commercial. Of the six
remaining species in the state all should be used in order to increase
the numbers of this genus which is perhaps the most choice of shade
trees.

Ligustrum ovalifolium L. California Privet. One of the ligustrums so
commonly used in yard work throughout the whole of Texas. This and
Ligustrum vulgare L., the European form, in many places become native
in this state. However where they are not cared for, they soon lose
their trim and well-shaped appearance and are very similar to some of
the native yaupons.

Menodora heterophylla Moric. Red Bud. This name should not be used
for this plant; however it is used very Widely and is in a country Where
the red bud of literature (Cercis_sp.) does not exist; therefore it is
thought best to use this common name. The plant has an underground
perennial root stalk. In the late fall it puts up a number of shrub-like
stems to a height of about six or eight inches. These bear in earliest
spring numerous yellow ﬂowers. The outside of the ﬂower is deep red
and as the ﬂowers remain in bud for a month or so it is easy to see why
the name is so well known and widespread. The ﬂowers are trumpet-
shaped and about three-fourths of an inch across. Should the plant be
frosted it will put out a second set of stems and ﬂowers. 1n a month
after the plant has bloomed, the seeds have ripened and fallen, and the
plant disappears until the next winter. This plant should be hunted
out in the spring, either marked or dug at once, and transferred to
parks or yards where it makes a most excellent permanent bed plant
or border plant.

LOGANIACEAE

Buddleia. A general of shrubs represented in Texas by B. Lindleyana
Fort., B. marrubifolia Benth., B. raeemosa Torr., B. racevnosa var. incana
Torr., B. scordioides H. B. K. These are low shrubs generally growing in the
southwestern part of Texas. They are peculiar in that they can stand
almost any amount of drought and heat. The ﬂowers which are very small
are surrounded by a woolly growth which gives the plant a most unique
and pleasing appearance. Few trials have been made in the cultivation of
this genus but B. rscordioides is recommended for trial by those who wish a
plant that will grow under conditions of great heat, drought, and poor soil.

Gelsemium sempervirens (L.) Ait. Yellow Jasmine. A prostrate or vine-

like shrub with bright green bark and small dark green leaves, and

bearing through the spring and summer numerous yellow trumpet-
shaped ﬂowers. A plant which is well known in cultivation and has been
widely distributed through horticulturists. Native of sections 4B, 1, and
2 but will grow anywhere that it is planted and receives attention,
A nice specimen plant or a background for smaller and more brightly
colored ﬂowers.

98 BULLETIN NO. 551, TEXAS AGRICULTURAL EXPERIMENT STATION

Spigelia marylandioa L. Indian Pink. A very beautiful tall-growing plant
found in the swampy parts of sections 4B, 1, and 2. Throughout the
summer it bears spikes of tall red tubular ﬂowers two inches or more
in length. This plant, which is a perennial, has long been in cultivation
iin'the southeastern states. Where a tall showy plant is needed it is a
favorite plant. Commercial.

GE NTIANACEAE

Eustoma Russellianum (Hook.) Griseb. Prairie Gentian. This plant
occurs in three very distinct forms in the state of Texas. Along the sea
beaches and islands, the plant grows upright to a height of about four-
teen inches, has numerous opposite ovate leaves, and bears a cluster of
pale blue ﬂowers about one and one-half inches in diameter. Towards
the center of the ﬂower the color is pale yellow to white. This variety
blooms through the entire summer. The second variety, commonly known
in its locality as Texas Blue Bell, grows to a height of at least two feet
with a few ovate lanceolate leaves, and bears numerous deep purple
ﬂowers nearly three inches across. This plant grows in large numbers
sometimes covering many acres. In certain seep places in sections
4, 4B, 1, and 2, this plant has very largely become commercial as it is
gathered in the wild by the carload and transported to large cities for
sale, the ordinary blooming time being from the middle of July to the
middle of August. A third variety of shorter stature and bearing from
one to three dark purple ﬂowers about two inches in diameter is not
uncommon in sections 7A and 7. All of the plants are winter annuals
and prefer the same character of environment, seepy ﬂat ground with
some salt content. This requirement makes it diﬂicult to grow these
plants. It would, however, be proﬁtable to grow the larger ﬂowers and
attempt to make them a seasonal article of commerce.

Frasem speciosa Dougl. Pyramid Flower. A very showy biennial plant
native to Trans-Pecos Texas. The plant must grow in shady moist con-
ditions. The ﬁrst year it presents a large rosette of lanceolate leaves,
sometimes as many as ﬁfty, with the rosette having a diameter of two
feet. The second year in the middle of summer it puts up a stalk to
a height of ﬁve to seven feet. The ﬂowering stalk bears but a few leaves,
which are lanceolate, and is topped by a large spike of peculiar four-
petaled yellowish white ﬂowers. The petals are unique in that in the
center of each petal is a chocolate brown gland which makes the ﬂower
very conspicuous. The ﬂower cluster blooms through a period of three
to four weeks, after which the upright seed capsules make the spikes
very attractive. After two or three months the dead plant should be
removed. The seeds are very small but in seed shelters easily propagated.
The seedlings should be removed from shelters early in the spring so
that they may become well established the ﬁrst year. This plant will
undoubtedly grow in the northern parts of section 7, 7A, 4A, and 4 and
can be grown anywhere that moisture and shade occur in quantity.

Gentiana Saponaria L. Swamp Gentian. A typical blue ﬂowered gentian
from a perennial root stalk, growing to the height of one to two feet and
from August to September, and producing numerous blue ﬂowers. It is

VALUABLE PLANTS NATIVE TO TEXAS 99

known only from section 1 but probably occurs in section 4B. It can
be grown anywhere that moisture and shade, accompanied by care, exist.
Commercial.

Nymphoides aquaticum (Walt.) Kuntze. Floating Heart. A very peculiar
water plant which consists of a heart-shaped leaf sometimes six inches
across. On the stem just below this leaf-like body are produced from
one to a dozen white ﬁve-petaled ﬂowers from three-fourths to almost
an inch in length. This plant has been reported from the lakes and
swamps of section 1 and doubtless occurs in 4B and 2. As it is a common
plant with ﬂoriculturists it is found in lily pools and goldﬁsh pools
throughout the state. Commercial.

Sabutia angularis (L.) Pursh. Rose Pink. The well known Rose or
Prairie Pink of East Texas, a plant growing to a height of from two to
three feet, having a four-angled stem and opposite leaves. The ﬂowers
are from one inch to one and one-half inches Wide and rose pink with a
star in the center. The plant is annual or perennial and is very erratic
in its growth, probably on account of selective moisture requirements.
It produces an abundance of seed, yet it is only on certain years with
these sometimes separated by long periods, that the plant is common.
Where one collects the seed as soon as it is ripe in the middle of summer,
plants it immediately‘ in soil similarly located and moistened as that
in which the original plant grew, and takes good care of the seedlings,
a bloom can be had each year. The plant is adapted to soft soils where
moisture is common. It does its best in the open sun. Commercial.

Sabatia campestris Nutt. A "plant very similar to the last and confused
by most people with it, as are the following species: Sabatia calycina (Lam.)
Heller; Sabatia carnosa Small; Sabatia gentianoirles Ell.; Sabatia gracilis
(Michx.) Salisb.; Sabatia stellaris Pursh. These species are so similiar
that only by close examination can they be distinguished. As they gen-
erally grow in isolated sections and do not overlap their territories, they
pass easily for the same species. All of them have the same habits, can
be grown with the same care, and should become popular as bedding
plants.

APOGYNACEAE

Amsonia ciliata Walt. var. tcxan/a (A. Gray) Coulter. Blue Texas Star.
Found in sections 7, 7A, 4A, 4, 4B, 5, and in many places in 3. An annual
herb forming a heavy perennial root cluster bearing numerous lanceolate
leaves, the seedlings growing to a height of eighteen inches to three feet
and bearing throughout the summer clusters of blue ﬁve-pointed ﬂowers,
each one of which is about one-half inch across. This species will grow
anywhere that it is planted and given attention. It needs soft rich soil
and a great amount of moisture. It grows in the open sun or in some
shade. It is a ﬁne addition to permanent plantings in any yard or park.
A suggestion is here made that a collection of the various plants named
Texas Star, but which must be preceded by an adjective giving the color,

'_ would make a ﬁne bed in any small park or large yard.

‘r

100 BULLETIN NO. 551, TEXAS AGRICULTURAL EXPERIMENT STATION

Anzsonia Tabernacmovztaiza Walt., var. salicifolia (Pursh) Woodson. A
species known to sections 1 and 2; found in certain places in 4, 4B, and 3.
The plant very much resembles the last but grows in swampy places and
to a height of four to ﬁve feet. The ﬂowering clusters are much larger
and contain numerous small ﬂowers. This plant should be used in all
water plantings and in moist shady places wherever these occur. It is a
welcome addition to any water planting. '

Apocynum cannabinum, L. Dogbane. A species in this family so closely
resembling the milkweeds that anyone can see the relationship. A tall
growing herb aboveground with heavy perennial roots. The leaves are
smooth and a peculiar yellow green. In summer and fall, clusters of
small pink bell-shaped ﬂowers are produced in small umbels near the
top of the stems. These are followed by seed pods about one-fourth of
an inch by three inches with two pods in a place. This species is wide-
spread throughout Texas and will grow anywhere that it may be planted.
As a specimen plant in a collection or in a group of tall-growing plantings
in parks, this has a place.

Macrosiphonia macrosiphon (Torr.) Heller. Found in sections 3, 5, and 6.
A perennial plant which much resembles a milkweed in form and a
dogbane in fruit, but bears ﬂowers which are very showy. These white
tubular ﬂowers are from three to four inches long; the lip ﬁve-lobed and
ﬂowers occurring in the axils of the upper leaves. The plant is perennial
aboveground in most places where it occurs. Because of the large
ﬂowers and rarity of the plant, it is little known; however if it is made
available to the public, it will become a favorite of those desiring a
beautiful and hardy ornamental.

Nerium oleandeo" L. Oleander. A beautiful ornamental too well known to
need description. For sale in all of its varieties by all dealers and a
plant that in parts of sections 4B, 1, 2, and 3 has gone wild. In some
places are found thickets of a peculiar variety which was introduced
years ago. Commercial.

Vinca ntinor L. Periwinkle. As the three species of periwinkle—Vinca
minor L., Vinca rosea L., Vinca major L., are all well known in cultivation
and as all of them have become wild in Texas this species needs no
recommendation. It is one of the plants on which those who wish showy
ornamentals with the least amount of trouble can depend. In the greater
part of South Texas after this is once planted, it will take care of itself.

ASCLEPIADACEAE

Acerates auriculata Engelm. Green Milkweed. This plant is a native of
most of Texas, and where this species is not present A. ﬂoridana (Lam.)
Hitchc. takes its place. The plant is perennial, arising from a long under-
ground root stalk. The aboveground part consists of a slender stem
about eight to ten inches in length bearing numerous umbels of small
yellow green milkweed ﬂowers in the axils of the linear leaves. Under
cultivation these stems are produced in large clusters, and a group of

VALUABLE PLANTS NATIVE TO TEXAS 101

these plants is a very pleasing and curious sight. They are easily trans-
planted by root division or grown from seed. This genus has a number
of species which are not here discussed that are so similar to the one
given that what is said of one applies to all. These species are adapted
to rock gardens.

Asclepias amplewicaulis J. E. Smith.lBlunt Leaf Milkweed. Found in sandy
soils in wooded sections. Like all of this genus the plants come from
heavy underground root stalks. The stems are large, stiff, and bear
lanceolate leaves. The ﬂowers are borne in clusters on the upper parts
of the stem. These clusters bear from few to many ﬂowers which are
peculiarly constructed, and differ from all others in that they consist of
small greenish white ﬂowers borne on stalks at least one inch long, giving
the ﬂower cluster a most peculiar appearance. This plant has been
brought into cultivation in parts of East Texas and as a low plant growing
in a garden is very showy. For park work, a group planting of the
various milkweeds is very attractive both in summer and fall as the large
seed pods are of pleasing appearance.

zlsclepias Zatifolia (T0rr.) Raf. This is a large green milkweed found in
every section of Texas. It bears a cluster of pink ﬂowers almost three
inches in diameter which are followed by large pods ﬁlled by the silky
umbrellas which carry the seed. It is a plant that should become a
member of collections in parks and yards.

Asclepias incarnata L. Swamp milkweed. A species growing to the height
of ﬁve to seven feet and having the peculiarity of growing in standing

water. The leaves are lanceolate, dark green, and lo11g. In the fall of

the year it bears large numbers of scarlet ﬂowers making a most notable
addition to any water planting. This plant will also grow in moist soils
and thus can be raised in yards and parks where moist conditions are
available. The plant can be grown from root divisions or from seed.

Asclepias nummularia Torr. Money Milkweed. The most peculiar and
best looking of all of the genus. It is native of the mountains of Trans-
Pecos Texas. Like others of the genus it grows from an underground
root stalk making it possible to transplant easily. Aboveground the
plant consists of two, and in some specimens, four very thick light green
leaves; arising from the axils of these leaves are generally two clusters of
typical milkweed ﬂowers from white to pink in color, the entire cluster
being about three-fourths of an inch in diameter. This is one plant
that should be grown in every rock garden and collection of rare plants.
Some nursery should make this species available to the public.

Ascleptodora decumbens (N'utt.) A. Gray. Antelope Horns. This species
is probably one of the best known plants in the state, in early spring a
heavy stem bearing lanceolate stalks growing to a height of eight to ten
inches. It produces a large ball of light green ﬂowers. These balls
sometimes are at least four inches in diameter. In turn these ﬂowers
give way from one to several peculiarly shaped pods which when green

102 BULLETIN NO. 551, TEXAS AGRICULTURAL EXPERIMENT STATION

much resemble the horns of the Texas antelope. As this plant will grow
for years, is easily transplanted, and produces beautiful ﬂower and fruit,
it should be grown as a part of any collection of milkweeds in a rock
garden, or park planting.

Asclepiodora virirlis (Walt) A. Gray. This plant is so different from its
relative that it is given, with the suggestion that it be planted in the
same vicinity to show the differences between the species. This plant
has a slender stem rising to a height of two feet. It bears numerous
almost oval leaves which are dark green with red midribs. At the top
it bears a few umbels of reddish color. These clusters are not over one
and one-half inches in diameter. They are followed by long, curved milk-
weed pods. The plant has a peculiar appearance and when grown with
other milkweeds makes a nice addition to a collection.

Gonolobus Zaevis Michx. The most common vine milkweed in Texas,
found wherever moisture is available. The vines are extremely long.
They have nodes two feet apart where they produce lanceolate leaves up
to three inches in length. The axils of the upper leaves produce large
numbers of small clusters of white ﬂowers. The vine is a honey plant
of note. It is also of value in erosion control as it will grow on a newly
eroding bank and will tie sandy soils together with a mat of roots that
will withstand considerable water current. The large seed pods make it
attractive throughout the summer.

Vincetoazicum biﬂorum. (Raf) Heller. Star Milkweed. This plant has
underground root stalks and is perennial. The plant aboveground con-
sists of numerous short branches. These bear opposite, lanceolate leaves

' in the axils of which are borne two to several star-shaped yellow black

ﬂowers. These in turn are followed by pods resembling the others of the
milkweed family. This plant is peculiarly adapted for a rock garden,
collection of desert plants, or bed work in yards and parks. There are
seven other species in this genus which range from this low-growing one
to the longest of vines belonging to the milkweed group. All species have
the common ﬁve-lobed dark colored ﬂowers with the white colored knob

in the center, which gives to this group the common name of pearl

milkweed.

CONVOLVULACEAE

Oonvolvulus hermanmoides Gray. Red-centered Vine Morning-glory. The
leaves are three cornered and longer than broad. The morning-glory
ﬂowers are about one inch in diameter and ﬁve sided. When the ﬂowers
ﬁrst open they are pure white but after pollination they turn red within
the tubes. As this plant is a perennial and of slow growth, it does not
produce a seed as do most of the morning-glories. This plant when prop-
erly cared for will produce numerous white and red ﬂowers throughout
the dry parts of summer, and has its place in every large park planting
and especially along the roadsides where the ground is full of rocks and
where clay exists.

VALUABLE PLANTS NATIVE TO TEXAS 103

Cuscuta Gephalanthi Engelm. Buttonwood Dodder. A selective member
of the dodder group. The plant attacked bears numerous rope-like
clusters of yellow to white ﬂowers which are not unattractive. It seldom
injures its host but is unsightly in the winter. This parasite is annual,
thus saving it from death by the parasite. Because the plant is little
known and is very attractive these parasites are of interest in park work.
To obtain them the matured plants should be procured in the fall and
should be scattered on the ground under the plant they are to attack the
following season.

Ouscuta imdecora Choisy. Prairie Dodder. This is typical of the dodder
group which are all deﬁnite parasites. They start life as an annual plant;
however as soon as the stems which contain no chlorophyll touch the
host plant they become attached and henceforth are typical parasites.
Among many species some are very detrimental. The one that attacks
clovers is one of- the most injurious of the weeds of Europe. It was
introduced in the United States and is a pest in some sections. The
plant is a curiosity and is little known. In some sections the huge masses
of yellow stems before they become attached to the host are spoken of
as love vines. Most of the species are selective and live on but one species
orone genus of hosts. The plant is ornamental and will pay anyone
interested in producing attractive collections of wild plants to secure in
the fall the fruiting specimens of this parasite and immediately sow them
in the park under the plant Where the parasite is desired the next year.

Dichondm repens Forst, var. carolinensis (Michx.) Choisy. Moneywort.
A plant well known to everyone, but few know the common name. The
plant will be noticed early in the spring in lawns or around buildings
Where it appears as paired oval leaves lying ﬂat on the surface of the
soils. The vine and branches are underground. This plant in places
becomes so numerous as to make unsightly places in closely mown lawns.
It, however, is a very valuable plant to landscape gardeners. It will
form a green mat of leaves with which to cover vacant areas along the
north sides of houses and other places where no other plants will grow
because of dense shade and moisture. In the open this plant is ideal
for a soil binder and should be used for that purpose. Where it is to be
used in large quantity, vines should be dug and replanted on a seed bed.
In the course of a few weeks the entire bed will be covered by new plants
which can be cut up in short pieces and replaced where the sand or soil
binder is needed. The plant is extremely hardy and is native to all of
Texas.

Evolvulus sericeus Swa-rtz. A small hardy plant perennial underground
and bearing numerous short vine-like stems with many silver gray linear
leaves. The plant through the summer bears numerous small morning-
glory like white ﬂowers. The plant can withstand any amount of heat
and drought when once established. This is a ﬁne border or bed plant
for a yard. There are several other species of this genus. One has blue
ﬂowers instead of white, these ﬂowers being only one-fourth of an inch
in diameter. This species should be sought out and grown because of
the daintiness of the small blue ﬂowers which somewhat resemble ﬂax.
This genus can be found in dry soils in all of Texas south of San Angelo
and will grow anywhere within the state where planted.

104 BULLETIN NO. 551, TEXAS AGRICULTURAL EXPERIMENT STATION

Ipomoea crassicaulis (Benth.) Robinson. The Tall Bush Morning-glory.
A plant which under the name of Ipomoea fistulosa is said to have been
imported from Brazil. It has gone wild over most of the state and will
grow anywhere planted. South of San Antonio it becomes a perennial
aboveground but farther north it is annual aboveground. It makes a
vigorous growth and reaches a height of six to eight feet. It is dark green
in color and bears very numerous pale pink morning-glory ﬂowers.
Where all of the old wood is removed every spring, this plant makes a
very ﬁne ornamental. It can be used as a hedge, specimen plant, or
roadside plantings to maintain a background for mile posts or other
markers. It is most easily grown from the numerous large seeds.

Ipomoea leptophylla Torr. Bush Morning-glory north and west of Austin.
This is a small herbaceous bush coming from a perennial underground
tuber. The branches which are more or less prostrate reach a length
of three to four feet. The leaves are lanceolate. The plant bears
throughout the summer and fall numerous bright pink morning-glory
ﬂowers about two inches in diameter. This plant should receive the
attention of those making park and roadside plantings as it is easily
transplanted and will stand up under all weather and will require but
little attention. The plant has requirements of a yard beautiﬁer. Many
nurseries give this plant in their catalogues.

Ipomoea Lindheihnem‘ A. Gray. Perennial blue morning-glory found in
sections 5 and 6 and to some extent through the state wherever its
tuberous roots are planted. The parts aboveground are annual and are
typical morning-glory vines and leaves. These vines grow to a height
of ﬁfteen to twenty feet and are sufficiently numerous to cover a large
area. The ﬂowers are bright blue and have the ability to remain open
through the greater part of the day. This is a morning-glory that
should be very widely cultivated because of the fact that it is perennial.

Ipomoea Pes-Gaprae (L.) Sweet. Goat Foot Morning-glory. A perennial
plant found along the Lower Gulf Coast. The vine aboveground is
short, curiously branched, and succulent. The leaves are dark green
and of such a shape as to give the name of goat foot to this plant. The
ﬂowers are deep red and are borne sparingly along the stems through-
out the year. This plant is widely grown in window boxes or hanging
baskets as it seems to be able to adapt itself to growing indoors; how-
ever away from the seashore the vine will repay for its cultivation. When
grown in the open the plant very often blooms just before coming of
cold weather. It can be procured as a tuber or grown from seed.

Ipomoea Quamoclit L. Annual Ipomoea. It is an introduced plant and is
the most beautiful of the red morning-glories in cultivation. It does
well throughout the state and becomes a weed in the river valleys of the
southeastern portion. The plant is a favorite with ﬂorists as is attested
by the fact that this plant is advertised in all seed catalogues.

Jacquemontia tamnifolia (L.) Griseb. The Clustered Blue Morning-glory.
An annual morning-glory like plant which has the common morning-
glory vines and leaves but bears numerous morning-glory like ﬂowers
in heads. In certain strains these ﬂowers are at least one inch across.

VALUABLE PLANTS NATIVE TO TEXAS 105

The plant has long been in cultivation and is an escape in Texas. It
will please anyone who wishes a peculiar vine with blue ﬂowers. It is
adapted to covering large surfaces where uneven ground or other
unsightly areas are to be landscaped. Commercial.

Operculina cllissecta (Jacq.) House. Alamo Vine. A tall-growing vine from
a perennial root stalk, the leaves of which are divided into ﬁve to seven
lobes, the edges of the lobes being waved. The plant bears a white
morning-glory like ﬂower about one inch across and has large green
sepals which are much longer than the ﬂower. The ﬂower is followed
by the largest seed capsules of this family, these containing from ﬁve
to ten black seed. The plant is very easily grown either from seed or
from the tuberous root. The vines from San Antonio south are perennial
aboveground but north of there they are annual. It is found growing
throughout all of section 3 and because it covers much of the walls of
the Alamo it has received this name a11d the seed have been distributed
from the Alamo.

POLEMONIAOEAE

emu "ilncisa Benth. False Flax. Pheasant’s Eye. A very common but
almost unknown plant. It is a winter annual which has wirelike stems,
grows to a height of eight to ﬁfteen inches and has small pointed leaves
that are stiff and hard. The upper parts of the plant bear numerous
ﬁne branches which bear on their tips blue ﬁve-pointed ﬂowers with
light-colored centers, the ﬂowers being about one-third of an inch across.
This plant very much resembles a miniature ﬂax. It does not produce
many ﬂowers at a time but continues to bloom throughout the summer.
It is to be looked for in any shady, damp location especially in rough
lands or on rocky hillsides. The ripe seed pods should be collected and
sown sparsely in beds where there will be some shade. The plant will
amply repay for the trouble of securing and growing it. It is found
abundantly in sections 7A, 4A, 4, 4B, 3, 5, and 6 and will grow any-
where. This miniature plant should be in every rock garden or rare
ﬂower collection.

Gilia longiﬂora (Torr.) Don. The annual white ﬂowered Gilia. A tall
Gilia native to the sand hills of sections 7, 7A, 5, 4A, and 6 and will grow
anywhere planted where there is soft soil and moisture. The plant is
almost tree-like in its form, reaching a height of from three to ﬁve feet
and bears at the top numerous long-tubed white ﬂowers, some of these
tubes being more than two inches in length. The ﬂowers are followed
by dry seed capsules which make the collection of seed an easy matter.
This plant should be grown by anyone who has soft soils and moisture.
Those seeking this plant should visit, from June on, the shinnery oak
and sand dune localities anywhere west of Brownwood where they are
sure to ﬁnd the plant.

Gilia rigidula Benth. A plant common to all of Texas west of San Antonio.
It is a perennial that grows as a small shrub with dark green linear
leaves, the entire plant being about six inches in height. In early
spring it bears large numbers of bright blue ﬁve-pointed ﬂowers with

106 BULLETIN NO. 551, TEXAS AGRICULTURAL EXPERIMENT STATION

yellow centers. Throughout the summers a few of these ﬂowers are
always present. The plant can be transplanted easily because of its
compact root system and can be grown from the seed; however it
requires two years from seed to the ﬂowers. The plant is to be looked
for in any section where the plant has been protected from cattle by
brush or rough lands. This will make a bautiful row plant as it is
persistent, produces attractive ﬂowers, and is of low growth.

Gilia rubxa (L.) Heller. Red Gilia. A plant common to sections 7A, 4A,
4, 4B, parts of 3 and 5. The plant is a biennial and through dry periods
may remain as a rosette through a period of ﬁve to six years before
it has stored sufficient food to bloom. The seed should be sown, as
soon as the capsules are ripe, on the land where the ﬂowers are to bloom.
Throughout the late summer and ‘following winter, a large rosette of
very ﬁnely divided leaves will be developed. If there is sufficient moisture
in early spring, a tall spike well covered with ﬁnely cut leaves will arise
from the rosette, which will produce through a period of four to ﬁve
weeks a wealth of bright red star-shaped ﬂowers having a tube about
one and one-half inches long. This plant is very showy and is easy to
cultivate. It has been in cultivation for many years and warrants all
the care given it. The seed can be purchased anywhere.

There are twelve other species of Gilia occurring in the state of Texas,
all more or less showy. In the sand dunes of section 1 several Gilias
bearing very showy blue ﬂowers occur. Those Wishing a new plant for
ornament which ‘will give perfect satisfaction should collect the seeds
of the Gilias for trial.

Phlox cllvarlcata L. Wild Blue Phlox or Sweet William. This is the
Sweet William of American literature. It is found in sections 4B and
1 and will grow under cultivation anywhere that it has soft soils and some
moisture. If grown in partial shade the ﬂowers are inclined to be
li_ght colored, often pure white. The same plant, however, in the full
sun produces a cluster of dark blue ﬁve-lobed ﬂowers. The plant comes
from a heavy root cluster and is easily transplanted from the wild but
is just as easily grown from the numerous seed capsules which are ripe
about the beginning of summer. This is a plant that should be in any
garden where one specializes in small showy ﬂowers.

Phlox Drummondii Hook. The most noted Phlox in the world. This plant
came to the attention of Drummond, a botanical explorer, in 1834. He
obtained seed in Bexar, Wilson, Gonzales, and several other counties
where this plant is native. The seed was taken to England and from
this start came the majority of cultivated varieties of Phlox Drummondii.
It is known by its early blooming period and bright red ﬂowers. The
seed can either be gathered in the wild or can be purchased, and will
grow anywhere in Texas.

Phlox glabewima L. The Smooth Pink Phlox. This species like clivoricata
represents the southwestern outpost of this plant. It is a typical tall-
growing phlox reaching a height of twenty to thirty inches, its heavy
stem bearing but one cluster of ﬂowers and numerous opposite lanceolate

VALUABLE PLANTS NATIVE TO TEXAS 107

leaves. The ﬂower cluster is ﬂat topped. The ﬂowers are borne close
together, are pink in color, and have a peculiar porcelain-like surface.
This plant has been extensively used in the North as a~ bed plant and
for backgrounds. It blooms later than most of the species of this genus,
and a cluster of plants bear ﬂowers through a period of at least two
months. Because of the rarity of the plant in Texas, seed or roots should
be purchased from dealers. It will grow in sections 4A, 4, 4B, and 1
and probably in 7, 3, and 5.

Phlox pilosa L. Prairie Phlox. Common in sections 1, 4A, 4, 4B, and 6,
and in some parts of 7A, 3, and 5. The growth habit of this plant is
very similar to that of Phlox Drummondii; however the ﬂowers are
larger and lighter in color. The plant is annual and produces a large
amount of seed, making it excellent for roadside work. It is working
westward along highways where the State Road Commission is making
possible the increase of wild plants. This phlox should be used in
gardens and park work as it blooms later than Phlox Drummondii and
prolongs the season in which pink to red ﬂowers predominate.

Eight other species of Phlox are common and occur in Texas. All of
them are worthy of being brought into cultivation as all of the ﬂowers
are showy, the seed easily obtained, and the plants easily grown. They
perpetuate themselves if the ground is kept reasonably soft where they
are growing.

HYDROPHYLLACEAE

Hydrolea OVItEL Nutt. A low-growing shrub, perennial in the southeastern
part of Texas and annual aboveground in the northeastern part. It
grows in shallow water or muddy places. It reaches a height of ﬁfteen
to twenty inches above the water or soil and bears through the summer
light blue ﬂowers some of which are one inch in diameter. It is armed

'with spines in the axils of the lower leaves. The leaves are light green

and abundant. This is the only shrub which can be used in Water
plantings that will maintain itself without care and will for years
give a wealth of light green and blue throughout the summer to the
water’s edge. It is well worthy of cultivation everywhere that water
and muddy places are available. Commercial.

BORAGINACEAE

Goldemla canescevzs DC. A low-growing perennial pla-nt which has no
common name. It grows throughout sections 7, 7A, 4A, 4, 3, 5, and 6
and is probably the most valuable native plant in that section in the
control of sheet and wind erosion. In many places in the semi-arid parts
of Texas, this plant covers many acres of land, saving the soil from the
wind. Cattle browse on it to some extent but tramping does not seem
to injure it. It bears at certain times very small white ﬂowers hidden
in the axils of the leaves. This plant will make an excellent border or
a solid mat of cover for yards, road work, or park work in the sections

108 BULLETIN NO. 551, TEXAS AGRICULTURAL EXPERIMENT STATION

of Texas where it is native. Under cultivation it grows stalky and is
a good border plant growing t0 a height of eighteen inches. This is
a species that should be widely planted in sections where wind and sheet
erosion are rapidly destroying the range.

Oordia Boisserz‘ DC. Texas Wild Olive. A low-growing tree of the Lower
Rio Grande Valley. It will grow under favorable circumstances on
the Gulf Coast. It is a most beautiful tree because of its large velvety
leaves, its clusters of white and yellow ﬂowers, and ivory white fruits.
This tree must be taken under man's protection, else it will soon be
extinct. Nurseries should make it available and should recommend its
use in all of the territory in which dealers prove that it can be grown.

Ehretia anacwa (Berl.) Johnston. A very desirable tree native to section
3 but will grow in parts of 4, 4B, 1, 2, 5, and probably 4A and 6. In
the southern part of its range, this tree attains a height of some thirty
feet and a diameter of two feet. It is almost evergreen. The leaves are
coriaceous and very rough. The bloom consists of clusters of small
white ﬂowers which appear in March and April. These are followed in
June and July by large groups of red fruits about one-third of an inch
in diameter. While the fruits are mainly ﬁlled by very large seeds,
the pulp has a very pleasing taste. The fruits are favorites with birds
and children. This tree has a number of valuable characteristics. In
the section where it will grow, it is one of the most valuable plants to
aid in the arrest of erosion in large gulleys, as this tree has a habit of
putting out numerous water sprouts and building what is known as a
motte formation. When the tree has been established, it is next to
impossible to eradicate it. It is not subject to disease and in addition
to being valuable in erosion control, it is one of the few plants that will
make considerable growth, endure the semi~desert sun, and furnish
shade throughout much of the territory where it is native. This tree
is highly recommended for roadside and yard plantings. Many years
ago this tree was planted quite largely through towns in sections 4, 4B,
2, and 3. Some of these trees almost one hundred years old are still
in healthy cohdition and are the most beautiful trees in the town in
which they exist. Water sprouts of this plant can be obtained very
easily wherever the plants are native and as they transplant easily the
plant is ideal for the grower who wishes a new tree that will be 0f
use.

Heliotropium confertifolium Torr. A small gray green perennial which is
very common in sections 7A, 4A, 4, 3, and 5. It is also found in 7, 4B,
and 6. It is a low-growing plant and produces wire-like stems about
four inches in length. These are covered by silver gray scale-like leaves
giving the plants the appearance of something artiﬁcial. In early spring
it bears numerous small white ﬂowers hidden in the axils of the scales.
As the plant grows in great masses, it appears as a large gray moss.
The plant has great possibilities for use in borders and for mass plant-
ings where a silver gray color is desired. This plant is of value in the

VALUABLE PLANTS NATIVE TO TEXAS 109

control of sheet and wind erosion. For that reason this plant should be
scattered by those interested in protecting their range. The plant so far
as known has no common name. It is easily transplanted from the
wild.

Heliotropium convolvulaccztm A. Gray. Found in sections 7, 7A, 4A,.4,
4B, 3, 5, and 6 and will probably grow anywhere planted. This is
known in some places as the woolly heliotrope. In many places from
June to September it occurs in large patches where the low-growing
dark green plants completely cover the surface of ground and bear
numerous white morning-glory like ﬂowers about one-half inch across.
This is one of the most showy plants in all of the plains country of Texas.
It arises from a perennial root stalk and can be easily transplanted.
Likewise it can be easily grown from the seed that can be obtained in
quantity from any colony of this plant. It is highly recommended for
roadside, park, and yard work where a maximum of beauty and service
is desired with a minimum of exertion.

Heliotropium curassavicttm L. Seaside or Salt Flat Heliotrope. A very
peculiar ﬂeshy, large perennial which bears clusters of small ﬂowers
that uncoil as they bloom. It is generally found along the Gulf Coast
but is found in land wherever there are small amounts of salt. It will
grow under cultivation in many parts of Texas. Where grown in salt
free soils it grows larger and produces more ﬂowers than elsewhere.
It is worthy of a trial. The seed should be collected in the wild.

Heliotropium indicum L. Introduced Heliotrope. Considered in many
places as a weed. Where one wishes a spectacular plant, this will give
the desired results. It will grow in any kind of wet soils. It is there-
fore valuable where one has such problems as the hiding of sewage dis-
posal plants and other similar problems. This species will grow to a
height of seven to eight feet and produces lanceolate woolly leaves some-
times six inches in length. It bears throughout the summer small spikes
of pale blue ﬂowers. It can be obtained from seed. This plant should
recommend itself for a roadside plant where irrigation ditches and stand-
ing water are problems for the landscape engineer.

Heltotropium tenellum Torr. A peculiar small-growing heliotrope reaching
a height of less than one foot. The leaves are almost linear and the
ﬂower clusters small. The little white ﬂowers are typical of the genus
and are produced in quantity throughout the year. Where one wishes
a bed of peculiar plants this is a ﬁnd. It is annual, hardy, and will
stand up under much neglect. It is best procured by collecting seed
from the wild.

Lithospermum oaroltnense (Walt.) MacMil. Woolly Puccoon. A v-ery
showy early perennial found in sections 7, 7A, 4A, 4, 4B, 1, and parts
of 3 and 5. This plant grows from a heavy root stalk which is ﬁlled with
a juice that imparts a lasting red dye. The plant above the ground is
annual and grows to a height of one to two feet and bears many dark

110 BULLETIN NO. 551, TEXAS AGRICULTURAL EXPERIMENT STATION

green woolly leaves which are aided by numerous large bracts almost of
leaf size. For about three weeks in early spring this plant is covered
by numerous golden yellow tubular ﬂowers which are about one-half
inch in diameter. As a permanent bedding plant for roadside and yard
work, this plant is strongly recommended everywhere that soft soils
exist. It will grow in sand, gravel, or rocky soils but not in clay. It
should be started by obtaining the seed and growing the young plants
in plats. It requires two years from seed to bloom.

Lithosperm-um incisuwz Lehm. Narrow Leaf Puccoon. Found in every
section of the state. One of the ﬁrst ﬂowers to bloom in early spring;
has long narrow leaves equal in color and amounts of wool on both sides.
These generally are parallel with the stem, giving the plant a very
upright appearance. It bears light yellow ﬂowers the lobes of which are
ornamented by small scallops. The roots of this plant contain the red
dye material.

Onosmodium bejarense DC. A plant that seemingly has received no
common name. It is one of the spectacular spring ﬂowers. It grows
to a height of two to four feet. Each stem bears numerous lanceolate
leaves which are covered with very coarse wool. At the end of the
stem it bears a long cluster of pure white ﬂowers that apparently never
open. Because of the oddity of the shape of the plant, the time of year
at which it blooms, and the huge colonies in which the plant grows, this
species is desirable for park work. It is also adapted to road work where
moist conditions occur. The entire plant disappears about the ﬁrst of
June and does not reappear until the ﬁrst of November, making this
valuable to use in summer rotation. The plant can be obtained by root
divisions or by collecting and growing it from seed. It is found through
sections 7A, 4A, 3, 4, 4B, and parts of 3 and 5 and will probably grow
anywhere that it is planted.

Onosmodium Heller? Small. This species is similar to Onosmodium
bejarense; however it does not grow to exceed eighteen inches in height.
It is yellowish green in color and the ﬂowers are much larger than Onosmod-
ium bejarenlse. The plant is a native of sections 7A, 4A, 4, and parts of 3
and 5. It is generally found in rough hilly land in spots where dense
shade and moisture occur. It is easily transplanted by root divisions
or grown from seed. It should be planted in rock’ gardens and collections
of little known plants, and for use in mass work in parks.

VERBENACEAE

Oallicarpa americana L. French Mulberry. A plant that because of its
abundance in the sections where it grows has been neglected by land-
scape engineers. The plant is a bush with ovate leaves, growing to
a height of four to ﬁve feet but does better in cultivation where it should
be trimmed to a compact plant not to exceed three feet in height. During
the middle of summer its new branches bear numerous very small pink
ﬂowers in the axils of the leaves. These are followed by a group of mul-

VALUABLE PLANTS NATIVE TO TEXAS t 111

berry-colored fruits which persist throughout a period of two to three
months. The plant is found in sections 4A, 4, 4B, 1, 2, and portions of
3 and 5 and will grow anywhere. It is recommended for roadside plant-
ings, for mass shrubbery work in parks, and for background work in
yards. Commercial.

Lzmtana Ocmzara L. This is the most common lantana in central Texas.
Grows abundantly in sections 4A, 4, 4B, and parts of 2, 3, and 5. It is
a low-growing perennial shrub bearing throughout the spring and summer
numerous clusters of small red and yellow tubular ﬂowers which are
followed by clusters of blueberries. Numerous varieties of this plant
are grown by horticulturists. In nature there are seldom two plants
which are identical in shade of color or manner of growth. Because
of the ease in which the plants can be obtained, their resistance to hot

dry weather, and their long life, they are of great value in roadside and ‘

park work. The only objection is the peculiar odor.

Lantana involucrata L. White ﬂowered Lantana. Found in sections 2, 3,
and parts of 4B, also along the Rio Grande in section 5. A lantana
with small clusters of white ﬂowers which, because of the willow-like
branches, should make a ﬁne ornamental. It is not known in cultivation
outside the few places along the Rio Grande. It should be widely used
in roadside plantings in the sections where it is native and will probably
do well anywhere in the state. Some nursery should make this plant
easily available.

Lantcma macropoda Torr. A native of sections 3, 5, and 6 but found under
cultivation in 7, 7A, 4A, 4, 4B, and 1. This is one of the best looking
of the native lantanas in Texas and is the one most frequently in
cultivation. It is a slim-growing bush arising to a height of only a
few feet and having a cluster of white and lilac ﬂowers. Its odor, though
typical, is not so penetrating as in Lantana Camara L.

Lippia Berlandieri Schauer. A slender-growing bush reaching a height of
three feet or more. It is found only along the Rio Grande River but
will probably grow anywhere in sections 4A, 4, 4B, 3, 5, and parts of
7A. Throughout the year it is covered with small green leaves and
bears in early spring and again after rains small spikes of small lavender-
colored ﬂowers which make this plant a very desirable ornamental. The
plant will do best as a low hedge or as a group of specimen plants. It
has no. thorns. It is easily transplanted because of the shallow root
system. It should be used in roadside and park work throughout the
sections where it will grow.

Lippia lanceolata Michx, var. recognita Fernald and Grisc. Carpet Weed,
Frog Fruit. A prostrate green barked annual or perennial growing in
large mats on any variety of soil. The stems take root at the nodes.
The vine produces numerous lanceolate leaves up to three inches in
length. From the nodes it produces throughout the year a round cluster
of small white ﬂowers which is borne on the stalk that rises from one

112 BULLETIN NO. 551, TEXAS AGRICULTURAL EXPERIMENT STATION

and one-half inches to two inches above the plant. This habit makes
it easy to collect seed of this Plant which has proven valuable as a yard
cover and a soil binder. It is used very extensively to protect newly
made road ﬁlls and to hold in place newly graded yards and park sur-
faces. Commercial.

Lippia ligustrina (L.). Britton. White Brush. A tall-growing slender
branched bush found in sections 7A, 4A, 4, 3, 5, and 6. It reaches its
highest population in sections 8 and 9. This species has a great repu-
tation as a honey plant. It has many things in its favor as an orna-
mental. It can be transplanted any time of year, can be trimmed to
shape, and will make abundant bloom any time after a rain of one-half
inch or more. The bloom is copious but lasts only throughout a period
of three or four days. As the plant bears no thorns, and because of its
numerous blooming periods, this is a very desirable hedge plant through
all of central Texas.

Lippia nodiﬂora (L.) Michx. Frog Fruit, Carpet Weed. A perennial pros-
trate vine which will grow anywhere planted and can be found in
almost every section of the state. Its greatest value is its use against
water and wind erosion. Its manner of growth is such as to make it
adaptable to this work. It grows and blooms throughout the entire
year producing clusters of white to pink ﬂowers on stalks which raise
themselves above the level of the plant, thus making the procuring of
seed very easy. Where a soil cover is needed at once to protect the
newly graded surface, the plant should be brought in as root divisions.
These should be laid ﬂat on the surface and watered. They will put out
new growths at once and give the protection needed. This is one of
the plants native to Texas that should be very widely utilized in park
and road work.

Verbena ambrosifolia Rydb. Western form of Common Verbena of the
whole of Texas. It is found as abundantly in sections 7, 5, and 6 as Verbena
bipinnatiﬁda is found in the remainder of the state. The leaves are longer
than wide. The ﬂowers are of a deeper shade of color than the eastern
relative. This species should be introduced in the central parts of the
state as there is no doubt that it will maintain itself through long periods
of time. It is in cultivation in many places. To obtain this plant, the
seed pods should be gathered as soon as ripe, and seed planted only where
it is to be grown.

Verbena bipinnatiﬁda Nutt. The native lavender Verbena of most of Texas.
This is the earliest and most persistent of verbenas in the state. It blooms
in early spring and under normal conditions will bloom through the
summer. It can be transplanted from the wild in early spring or the
seed secured and planted in mid-winter. This species is very widely
used as a roadside planting in parks and is the foundation from which
many horticultural varieties have been derived. Commercial.

Verbena qu/adrangulata Heller. A small-ﬂowered pink verbena native to
the Gulf Coast where it takes the place of V. bipinnatiﬁda. Because of
the differences in shade of color, this plant should be introduced into
yard and park work to get a variation in color. It is easily grown from

VALUABLE PLANTS NATIVE TO TEXAS 113

seed but can be purchased or collected anywhere along the Gulf Coast.
There are twenty-two other species of Verbena within the state. These
range from annuals through perennials and through color from white
to deep blue. A number of these have been taken into cultivation and
can be purchased from seed stores. Some of the blue-ﬂowered species
produce quite large and showy spikes of ﬂowers but as yet have not
become common in cultivation. Those wishing to try new ﬂowers
should attempt the cultivation of the wild verbenas found within their
own territories.

Vitex Agnes-Castus L. Mexican Lavender. A tree growing to twenty feet
height whichlis found throughout sections 4A, 4, 4B, 3, and parts of
5, in cultivation or as an escape. Throughout the summer it is covered
with numerous clusters of small purple ﬂowers. The entire plant is
supposed to bear the odor of lavender. The leaves and blossoms are
used by Latin people as a preventive against moth. This ornamental
is desirable; however to keep it in shape the old wood should be com-
pletely cut away so that new vigorous wood is present to bear ﬂower
clusters.

Vitea: negundo incisa. Japanese Vitex. This ornamental is mentioned in
connection with Agnes-Castus. The plant has been newly introduced
into Texas and in certain places apparently will become native. It grows
more as a bush than the other species and has light green leaves with
no odor. The plant bears throughout the summer large numbers 0f light
blue ﬂowers. These have the habit of opening about ten o’clock A. M.
and remaining open until after dark. It is a ﬁne honey plant and it is
not uncommon to see bees working it until the darkness causes them
to leave or to remain for the night on the plant. This is a species that
should be very largely procured from nurseries as it is a most valuable
ornamental.

LABIATAE

Brazoria truncata (Benth.) Engelm. and Gray. A native of sections 7A, 4A,

4, 4B, and parts of 2, 3, and 5. A plant common to localities where
soft and sandy soils occur. It grows to a height of about one foot, bears
a thickened spike of white tubular ﬂowers spotted with pink. The
plant produces ﬂowers through a period of nearly two weeks. The short-
clustered ﬂower spikes give rise to the common name of Rattlesnake
plant as it is supposed to resemble the rattles of a snake. The plant is
annual. The seed should be harvested about two weeks after the ﬂowers
are through blooming and sown the next fall. The plant will do well
only in sandy and moist places.

H edeoma Drummondii Benth. False Pennyroyal. Lemon Mint. An aromatic
plant with delicate stems rising to a height of twelve to fourteen inches.
It grows in shady and moist localities. It is perennial and does most
of its growing during the summer. In early spring it bears numerous
small blue ﬂowers. It is a good honey plant and a desirable species

114 BULLETIN NO. 551,_TEXAS AGRICULTURAL EXPERIMENT STATION

to grow in beds of rare or interesting plants. The aroma of this plant
is very desirable as is that of all of the plants in this genus. There are
ten other membersof this group ranging from a species which is peculiar
in that it is less than three inches in height but produces numerous
tiny pink ﬂowers with extremely long corolla tubes, to the species just
described. All members of this family are called pennyroyal and have
been used by various peoples to make medicinal tea. Where an interest-
ing plant is wanted the nearest species of Hedeoma to the grower should
be the one collected and grown.

Lamium ampZeaJ-icaule L. Henbit or Dead Nettle. This plant is mentioned
for no other reason than to warn amateur gardeners of the danger of

allowing this mint-like plant with its small red ﬂowers to obtain a hold»

in the garden. This plant is one of the hardest weeds to combat,
especially in truck garden crops.

Leonotis nepetaefolia A. Br. Lion’s Head. The most spectacular of the
mint family, a plant introduced from Africa through the port of Galves-
ton. At the present time it is native all over the state. It grows in
soft soils where moisture occurs and will grow in dense shade. The
plant puts up a straight stalk in early spring which will reach a height
of from six to eight feet by the middle of summer. It bears on the upper
third of this stalk clusters of bracts from which come red mint ﬂowers,
some of these ﬂowers being two and one-half inches in length. This
ﬂower cluster is supposed to resemble the mane of a lion, hence the
name. Where in parks or roadside work weed patches are to be done
away with, this mint is a ﬁne substitute. It is sufficiently strong grow-
ing to hold its own against native weeds. The peculiar ﬂowers which
are borne thoughout a period of three or four months will attract the
attention of every passerby. Commercial.

Marrubiztvit vulgare L. Hoarhound. A most common mint introduced from
Europe. At one time this herb was cultivated in every home garden
to supply a simple remedy for coughs and colds. This drug can be

had in the hoarhound candy of commerce. The plant seems to follow

the sheep industry and in any sheep country this mint is extremely
common. It has little value as a forage plant, but it does have a value
in that it can grow under adverse conditions, ties together blowing or
Washing soils, and furnishes a protection for grasses until they can
obtain a foothold. It is probable that in allowing this plant to occupy
the roadsides that the Road Commission is preparing in the cheapest
and best way a rough soil for a natural succession of beauty plants which
will in time take the place of hoarhound. It is true that it is a nuisance
around a building a11d should be eliminated, but on rough pasture lands
and roadsides it is best to let this plant have its own way.

Mentha piperita L. The cultivated peppermint. A plant that has become
widespread and is too well known to need any description. It is of
interest to know that peppermint is growing in the most isolated parts
of the state, indicating that it has become thoroughly naturalized.

  

i. < WWW‘: NIW?! ' i ' .

VALUABLE PLANTS NATIVE‘ TO TEXAS 115

Mentha spicata L. Spearmint. Found in sections 4A, 4, 4B, and 5. Whether
this plant is indigenous or introduced is not known; however it is widely
distributed. Where one has the need of this herb, it is easily grown
by obtaining the seed from a dealer. It should be grown in a collection
of well known herbs which should be maintained in every park or
botanical garden.

Monarda c/itriodora Cerv. ex Lag. This is the name under which a large
number of native varieties are grouped. The Citriodora group is the

one which includes the purple-colored mints of the limestone countryf

They are the most beautiful of the native horsemints and are easily
grown by collecting the seed in the middle of summer and sowing them
early the next fall. In this group the colors vary from white to deepest
purple, and the size of the ﬂower clusters varies from two inches up to
three and one—half inches. ‘This group is found throughout central
Texas.

Monarda fistulosa L. Horsemint. The group of horsemints which bear
only terminal clusters of deep red ﬂowers with long corollas commonly
called bergamonts. In Texas this group is found in sections 4B, 1,
and 2 but will grow in cultivation in 7A, 4A, 4, and parts of 3 and 5.
Where a beautiful slender plant bearing a large cluster of showy ﬂowers
is needed, this is the plant. As it is biennial or perennial one should
secure the plant by root divisions. Certain strains of them have the
ﬂower clusters four inches in diameter.

Zllonarda pectinata Nutt. A species of horsemint that has no varieties and
which is easily told from all others. It is a native of sections 7, 5, and
6 where the plant grows in sandy localities. The stems are prostrate
but at blooming time the portion of stem which bears about three clusters
of pink horsemint ﬂowers turns upwards, giving one of these plants
in full bloom the appearance of a large number of single plants bloom-
ing close to the ground instead of but one plant. This is a beautiful
mint and well worthy of cultivation through the sandy regions of the
state.

lllonarda punctata L. Horsemint. In this group fall all those horsemints
that have light green bracts under the ﬂoral clusters. The group con-
tains annuals and perennials. The annual members of the group which
grow in sections 4, 4B, and 3 produce probably a greater portion of the
honey crop than any other plant i11 Texas. The perennial members of
this group grow only in the sandy districts of sections 4, 4B, 1, and 3 and
should be used in planting in any park or along roadsides where sandy
areas exist. It bloom throughout the summer and its ivory white and
yellow ﬂowers make it attractive.

Physostegia virginiana (L.) Benth. Dragon Head. A very beautiful
member of the mint family. It grows in swamps or wet places; square
stems arise to the height of eighteen to twenty inches and bear at the
top spikes of bright pink tubular ﬂowers sometimes two inches in
length. These clusters are produced throughout the summer. The plant

116 BULLETIN NO. 551, TEXAS AGRICULTURAL EXPERIMENT STATION

is not uncommon throughout sections 4A, 4, 4B, 2, and parts of 3 and 5.
It is common in all collections of ornamentals. The seed can be pur-
chased. Four other species of this genus are native to the eastern
parts of Texas; however they are so similar to this one that all species
should be used. A ﬁne addition to any water planting or moist place
in a yard or park.

Prunella vulgaris L. Self-heal. A small member of the mint family
growing in sections 4, 4B, 1 and worthy of cultivation elsewhere. The
plant grows to a height of six to eight inches, each of the slender stems
producing a head made up of a number of blue mint-shaped ﬂowers. This
plant does well in soils where because of scarcity of plant food it is
difﬁcult to grow ornamentals. The seed can be obtained by collecting
the ripened ﬂower heads and should be immediately scattered where
the plant is wished. The natural breaking up of the soils and increase
of plant material in the soil brought by the growing of this plant will
in several years doubtless produce a soil in which any ornamental may
be grown.

Pycnanthcmum albescens T. and G. White Leaf Mint. A tall slender-
growing mint bearing many leaves toward the top of the stem, which
rises to a height of about three to four feet. In midsummer the tips
of the branches bear clusters of peculiar blue-mint ﬂowers. The plant
is perennial and the several stalks arising from the root clusters add
considerably to the beauty of that portion of the park or yard where it
is a permanent ﬁxture.

Salvia azurea Lam. Giant Blue Sage. The largest of the compact-growing
blue sage plants found in sections 7A, 4A, 4, 4B, 1, and parts of 5. The
plant grows from a compact perennial root and bears clusters of from
ﬁfteen to twenty stalks from the same root. These produce throughout
the summer and fall clusters of blue ﬂowers about three-fourths of an
inch long. This sage plant should be grown in every yard or garden
and especially along roadsides within these sections. Transplanting
appears to be beneﬁcial to the plant in that it breaks up some of the
old root stalks and allows a place for the growth of new.

Slalom ballotacﬁora Benth. Shrubby Blue Sage. Native to sections 7A,
4A, 4, 3, 5, and 6. It is a shrub growing to a height of four or ﬁve feet
and bearing numerous light green leaves through the year. Through the
summer it bears small blue ﬂowers in great quantity. Like any desert
plant, this shrub has the habit of dropping its leaves in times of drought
and putting out new ones with the coming of rain. This species is a
beautiful hedge plant. It responds readily to cultivation and pruning;
however the old wood should be removed at least every two years in
order to obtain straight and numerous young shoots on which the ﬂowers
are borne. Commercial.

Saloia coccinea L. A sage coming from a perennial root stalk, native of
sections 4A, 4, 4B, 1, 2, and parts of 5. This plant prefers soft sandy
soils and is partial to those which occur along water courses. It will

VALUABLE PLANTS NATIVE‘ TO TEXAS 117

grow to a height of three to four feet and will bloom from early spring
until frost. The plant is grown either by obtaining root divisions or
collecting the seed. A very desirable plant for sections 7A, 4A, 4, 4B,
3, and 5.

Salvia farinacea Benth. The Mealy Blue Sage. A plant native in sections
7A, 4A, 4, 4B, 1, 3, and 5. It grows as a cluster of bright green mint
leaves from a heavy perennial root. Throughout the summer the stalks
are tipped by spikes of blue to purple mint ﬂowers. The entire plant
is covered with a mealy-like pubescence. A cluster of this mint is very
desirable and plantings should be made along roadsides and in parks
assuring permanent ornamentals.

Salvia Greggii A. Gray. Native ingsections 3, 5, and 6 but will grow
anywhere it is planted. It is partial to soft soils and good treatment.
It likes the full sun. The plant is a shrub with slender stems and pro-
duces through the summer large numbers of red mint ﬂowers. It makes
a beautiful hedge and responds to pruning. The plant, however, should
be cut almost to the ground at least every two years to obtain new wood.

»S‘alm'a lyrata L. Lyre Leaf Sage. This is an annual sage plant native of
sections 7A, 4A, 4, and parts of 3 and 5. The plants appear about
Christmas as a small rosette of lyre-shaped leaves. This rosette increases
until March or April, at which time some of the leaves are at least
eight inches long. From the center of this large rosette come two or
three stalks rising to the height of eight or ten inches which bear from
six to ten beautiful blue sage ﬂowers about one inch in length. The
plant can be propagated very easily by obtaining the seed and planting
them in the fall of the year. A very desirable plant where one has
soft soils and much shade.

Salve/ta Pitcheri Torr. This is one of the most widely distributed of the
the sage family, being found in almost every section of the state. It
grows from a perennial root cluster and throughout the summer puts
up a long slender spike to the height of three to ﬁve feet which bear
along one-half of its length large, dark blue sage ﬂowers. This plant
because of its very long naked spikes and blue ﬂowers is widely known;
however the plant is seldom seen in cultivation. It responds to good
treatment and when planted, protected, and given a small supply of
moisture will produce much better effects than any of the blue ﬂowered
ornamentals.

A number of other species of Salvias occur in Texas, all of which are
worthy of cultivation for ornamentals. As these plants are all hardy,
most of them perennial, they offer opportunities for permanent plant-
ings in parks, and along roadsides that are not offered by some of the
more popular species.

Scutellaria Drummondti Benth. Skullcap. This is the most common
species and is found in every section of the state. It is a low growing
mint, the plants of which consist of upright stems with crowded opposite
leaves, rising to a height of about four inches. In the axil of each leaf

118 BULLETIN NO. 551, TEXAS AGRICULTURAL EXPERIMENT STATION

are produced from one to three blue ﬂowers followed by seed pods which
give the name to the species. The pla.nt is an annual or perennial and
makes a most excellent border or bed plant. It will grow either in the
sun or in the shade of trees. The plant should be obtained by collecting
the seed. There is no more beautiful plant for roadside work than this
low-growing, blue-ﬂowered mint. This genus contains nine other species,
all of which are equally as valuable. Some few of the species produce
rather large purple ﬂowers and should be grown. in the districts in which
they are common. If a small collection of plants is maintained in yards
where there is little room for display, the Scutellarias are valuable
plants as they disappear early in the spring and leave room for summer
and fall blooming species.

Stachys Drummondii Benth. Pinkmint. A mint-like annual which is
found in sections 2, 3, 5, and 6. It is doubtful if this mint will grow
far outside of its native habitat; however it will probably grow through-
out sections 4, 4B, and 1. The plant grows to a height of about two

feet, is a typical mint, and bears throughout February and March a i

profusion of pink mint ﬂowers. The plant occurs in such quantity that
in places the entire landscape appears pink. It is one of the ﬁnest early
bee plants in Texas. Where grown in a garden, about all the attention
that is needed to procure a stand of these plants and to have two weeks
of beautiful bloom is to sow the seed. This is borne profusely and
should be gathered as soon as it ripens. The seed should be sown in
November.

Teucriztm canadensc L. Wood Germander. A typical mint-like plant
growing to a height of two feet bearing a spike of pink ﬂowers in the
early part of summer. These spikes bloom through a period of at least
three weeks. The_plant likes moist places in deep shade, which makes
it valuable in park and water-side plantings. Under protection and
some cultivation it is most profuse in its blooming. It is annual or peren-
nial and can be obtained by root division or from seed.

Tcucrium cubense L. Coast Germander. A very showy and desirable
plant. It comes from an underground root cluster. Each stalk grows
to a height of about one foot. The leaves are numerous and ﬁnely
divided, making the stem somewhat resemble a small cedar. This stem
will produce a spike bearing from six to ten peculiarly shaped white
ﬂowers almost one inch across. A cluster of these plants will bloom
from June until frost. The plant is found abundantly on the Gulf Coast.
it should be used as a border plant in yards and as a bed plantin park
work. For roadside plantings it should be started in masses until it has
maintained itself and increased to such an extent that it will become the
dominant plant in the section around it.

Teucrium laciniatatm Torr. Prairie Germander. A species closely re-
sembling the last; however the plant grows only about ﬁve inches high.
The root clusters send up numerous stalks which make a continuous
bloom throughout the summer. The ﬂowers are at least one inch long,

 

 

w-wng- K, 

VALUABLE PLANTS NATIVE TO TEXAS 119

and the peculiar combination of feathery green leaves and white ﬂowers
makes a combination‘ that is very attractive. This is the best plant for
roadside work through sections 7, 7A, 4A, 5, and parts of 4 and 3. As
a yard plant there is no better for row or bed planting.

Trichostema dichotomum L. Blue Curls. A most peculiar dainty member
of the mint family. A very slender-growing plant arising to the height
of about one foot. It produces many curiously twisted blue ﬂowers
through the summer. It is found in sections 1 and 2 and will grow in
sections 4A, 4, 4B, and parts of 3. This plant should be brought into
cultivation as it will repay anyone for collecting and planting the seed.

SOLANACEAE

Capsicum baccatum L. Chilipiquin, Bird‘ Pepper, and Texas Strawberries.
A slender-growing, green-barked shrub bearing typical Solanum leaves

_ and ﬂowers which are followed by red peppers about one-eighth of an

inch in length. This is supposed to be the hottest of all the Solanum
peppers. The plant is found throughout the southern half of Texas and
will grow anywhere that it is planted in a moist and shady location. Its
preference is rich river valleys in dense shade. The plant rises to
the height of about three feet, produces numerous small white ﬂowers,
and throughout the fall and winter is a mass of bright red peppers. A
hedge of these peppers is a great addition to any park. A specimen plant
will be a curiosity in yards and beside water plantings. This species
has been cultivated in window boxes until it has become one of the
standard plants for that purpose. One of the ﬁnest hotels in the state of
Texas grows this plant in the windowboxes in its lobby, to the satisfaction
of everyone.

Ohamacsaracha coronopus (Dunal) A. Gray. A most common but almost
unknown member of the Solanum family. It is a prostrate perennial
which occurs in great quantity on waste lands, and blooms early in the
spring. The ﬂowers which are one-half inch in width resemble those
of Physalis; however the seed of this genus consists of a hard green
berry. This plant is quite valuable in roadside work. It is one of the

.plants which bind the ground together during the late winter and early

spring. The light yellow ﬂowers en masse give a very pleasing appear-
ance. The plants disappear and are succeeded by other and more showy
ones which grow in like locations. This is recommended wherever one
wishes a plant which will bloom early in the spring toloccupy the same
bed with later-blooming native plants.

r

Datum Metel L. Entire leaf Thorn Apple. Native of the southern half of
Texas where it was probably introduced many years ago by Indians or
Spaniards. This species bears the largest ﬂowers of the groups, the
large white trumpet-shaped ﬂowers and its calyx tube sometimes reach-
ing the length of one foot or more. The opening of "the tube is some-
times ﬁve inches in diameter. A ﬂower lasts but a single night. It
opens at sundown and falls with the heat of the sun during the next

120 BULLETIN NO. 551, TEXAS AGRICULTURAL EXPERIMENT STATION

morning. The plant has a perennial root. When started, the plant will
maintain itself for years and produce during the season hundreds of
these large white ﬂowers. This is a very attractive plant in sandy
soils in parks and even along roadsides. The very fact that it is open
at night makes it an addition to any wild ﬂower garden. It produces
large thorn-covered pods which contain numerous hard seed, every one
of which will grow, making it easy to obtain a start of this plant.

Datura querctfolia H. B. K. Oak Leaf Thorn Apple. This is the common
jimson weed of sections 1 and 6 and is found to some extent in 7A
and 5. It grows to a height of three or four feet and is found along
almost any stream or water course. It has a white trumpet-shaped ﬂower,
some four inches in length, which is followed by a very peculiar seed
capsule, covered with a few but very large spikes. The plant is suitable
for roadside planting or to cover unsightly places along water plant-
ings.

Datura Stramomum L. Jimson Weed. This is the jimson weed of the
East and is found throughout sections 7, 7A, 4A, 4, 4B, 1, and 2. It
is mentioned here because of the fame of this plant in literature. It
grows to a height of from two to ﬁve feet and branches in twos. In
the axils of each leaf, a white tubular ﬂower is borne. The plant is
spectacular as the stems are red. The ﬂowers are numerous and white,
and the lanceolated-toothed leaves are a peculiar green. In Texas the
plant is a curiosity. In parts of the Old South it is one of the worst
weeds.

Lycium carolinianum Walt. var. quadriﬁdum (Moc. and Sesse ex. Dunal)
C. L. Hitchc. The large-fruited Matrimony Vine. A vine-like shrub
with green succulent branches and leaves bearing small white to purple
ﬂowers which are followed by bright red tomato-like fruits almost one-
half inch in diameter. A very desirable plant for a small hedge or a
specimen plant. It does best in sandy soils where some moisture is
available but can endure long periods during which time it drops its
leaves and becomes dormant. With the coming of rain the response is
very rapid, as the plants will develop leaves and bloom within four
days after the beginning of a heavy rain. It also has the peculiarity of
being able to grow in standing water.
ﬁlled with this bush which rises to a height of a few feet above the
water and produces hundreds of bright red fruits. During the fall
and spring migration of water fowls, these fruits are very attractive
as food. Four other species of this genus are also adapted to ornamental
work since they can be used as low-growing hedges or as a ground cover.
They respond to pruning and cultivation. Their endurance of dry weather
and their quick comeback make these species valuable to those people
living in the semi-desert parts of the state.

Lycopersicon esculentum Mill., var. cerasiforme Alef. Wild Cherry
Tomato. A wild tomato found along the Gulf Coast and the Lower Rio
Grande river. Differing from the cultivated varieties, this grows as a
single tall stem bearing numerous yellow tomato ﬂowers in a spike

In many places small lakes are-

.....'.i.u-;=s¢ll,c.t~..n.,l was. w» ~ 4' ‘~ ""

 

VALUABLE PLANTS NATIVE TO TEXAS 121

at the top. These are followed by very small red tomato-like berries.
Wherever this plant will grow, it will be an oddity worth the planting of
the seed. To the horticulturist this plant has in it an opportunity for
the development of a more hardly variety than those cultivated at present.

Nicotiana glauca Graham. Sacred Mustard. A plant perhaps introduced
to Texas; however it appears native throughout sections 2 and 3 and
parts of 4, 4B, 5, and 6. The plant grows in the frostless areas to a
height of thirty feet and a diameter of four inches. It bears throughout
the year clusters of tubular yellow ﬂowers about one and one-half inches
in length. These are followed by cup-shaped seed capsules which con-
tain many extremely small seed. The leaves are lanceolate and dark
green, and resemble Eucalyptus. This species is the champion humming-
bird plant as these birds will be present wherever this plant blooms.
The common name comes from the fact that this must be the plant with
the smallest of seed which harbored the birds in its branches. Through-
out the sections where this grows, specimen plants are worthy of places
in any planting.

Nicotiana repanda Willd. The common Wild Tobacco of the southern
part of Texas. The large rosettes made up of a few green leaves which
are so conspicuous along water courses in the early spring belong to
this species. In late spring a ﬂower stem arises which bears from one
to a dozen white trumpet-shaped ﬂowers with corollas at least two
inches in length. In yards or water plantings a bed of these plants is
desirable. They, too, have the habit of being able to add beauty to
the winter landscape through their large rosettes, and to disappear before
the desirable plants of spring and summer are ready to bloom.

Petunia parviﬂora Juss. Wild Petunia. Found in sections 4, 4B, 2, 3, 5,
and 6. This plant is given not because it is of any special worth but
because it is confused with cultivated petunias which have gone wild.
The native petunias have a ﬂower so small that it is seldom noticed;
however the leaves resemble those of the cultivated species. Where
cross breeding is carried on, the wild petunias make an excellent stock

on which to cross the introduced species.

Physalis angulata L. Cut Leaf Ground Cherry. Thisground cherry is of
great use where a water area must be landscaped. The plant will grow
in the edge of any standing water. It is an annual, grows rapidly,
reaches a height of three feet, and covers the ground for at least three
feet on each side of the root. The leaves and stems are somewhat brighter
green. It produces a large number of clay-colored ﬂowers not more than
one-half inch in diameter which are followed by bright green bladder-
like pods three-fourths of an inch in diameter and having ten angles in

 the cross section. The fruits are edible. The plant will continue to
I grow and produce fruits from early spring until fall. The seed should
_ be sown as soon as the danger of frost is over in spring. '

122 BULLETIN NO. 551, TEXAS AGRICULTURAL EXPERIMENT STATION

Physalis imocarpa Brot. (P. acquata Jacq. f.) Mexican Ground Cherry
of commerce. The plant is a winter annual. In order to obtain good
fruiting specimens this should be planted in early September and again
in January. It is a typical Physalis annual plant and grows to consider-
able size. The greenish yellow ﬂowers are followed by tomato-like fruits
which are green or purple in color, reach a diameterof one and one-half
inches, and completely ﬁll the bladder-like capsule. The fruits are an
article of commerce throughout South Texas. The seed can be obtained
from any dealer.

Physalis Zobata Torr. (Quincula lobata Britton.) Prostrate Purple Physalis.
The most ornamental species in the genus. It is found most abundantly
in sections 7, 7A, 4A, 4, 3, and 5 and will grow anywhere in the state
where planted. It consists of numerous perennial root stalks which
give rise to a mass of small stems bearing lobate green leaves which
lie ﬂat on the ground. From the axils of these leaves are borne purple
ﬂowers with white centers. The ﬂowers are at least three-fourths of an
inch in diameter and because of the large numbers of them and the fact
that they are ﬂat on the ground they give the clusters a very pleasing
appearance. This plant is of great value in roadside work. The grading
of the road removes the grass and dead weeds, forming a very attractive
and favorite bed for the plants which, to repay the labor, put forth
numerous new stems that produce the brilliant purple ﬂowers. There is
no more beautiful sight throughout the Low Plains Country than a
newly graded roadside covered for stretches of miles with this purple-
ﬂowered plant. It is recommended for planting everywhere. ‘

Physalis macrophysa Rydb. Large Bladder Ground Cherry or Lantern
Plant. A perennial ground cherry found growing in shady woods on
soft soils. The capsules are often two and one-half inches long and two-
thirds of that amount in diameter, the fruits being very small. The
pods are almost as ornamental as those of the cultivated lantern plant
which is a species of Physalis.

Solanum eleagntfolium Cav. Silverleaf Nightshade. Found in sections
7, 7A, 4A, 4, 4B, 2, 3, 5, and 6. One of the best known nightshades
in Texas. Its lanceolate silver grayrleaves and pale purple ﬂowers grown
abundantly throughout the hot dry summer recommend this plant
for extensive roadside plantings. Its heavy underground root system
allows it to maintain itself in spite of new road work, and each new working
insures a sudden return of new showy plants to take the place of the
old. Where roads must be graded often to procure a lasting road bed,
this plant should be the one to be planted and encouraged. It is best
propagated by root divisions. In park work this has a place as a border
for paths and roads.

Solanum nigrum L. The Black or Deadly Nightshade. A tall succulent
dark green plant bearing numerous white ﬂowers from the axils of the
leaves followed by green berries which turn black. These are about
one-third of an inch in diameter. Contrary to folk-lore there is nothing
poisonous about this plant. A variety, the wonder berry, a generation

VALUABLE PLANTS NATIVE TO TEXAS 123

ago, attracted much attention as a new fruit for the Western Plains
country. An interesting variety which may be found in woodlands and
which does not exceed two inches in height, bears a number of minute
ﬂowers, and is only a starveling of this species.

Solanum, Torrey/i A. Gray. Purple ﬂowered Nightshade. A variety of the
nightshade in sections 7, 7A, 4A, 4, 4B, 3, 5, and 6. The plant grows
to a height of two to three feet rising from a heavy underground root
stalk and producing numerous lanceolate leaves which are angled.
Throughout the summer it bears ﬁve-sided bright purple ﬂowers more
than one inch in diameter, making it a very spectacular plant. Those
who do not know this species should not attempt to pick the plant as
the lower parts of the stern are protected by sharp spines. Following the
ﬂowers are borne tomato-like fruits which are bright yellow. Some
of these reach a diameter of one and one-half inches, making this species
of Solanum one of the best for cultivation in parks where a cluster is
a desirable accession. Along roadsides this plant should be propagated
as its root system stops washing and the plants aboveground are beauti-
ful.

Solaamm triquetrum Cav. The Vine Nightshade. A perennial vine which
has long been used by the Indians and Spanish-speaking peoples as an
ornamental. In frostless areas this will grow to great length covering
tall trees with masses of green almost leaﬂess stems and during the
summer and fall, it will bear thick clusters of white Solanum ﬂowers,
followed by red berries which remain on the vine throughout the winter.
Where frosts occur, the plant acts as an annual aboveground, but will
bloom as soon as the plant. reaches a height of a few inches and will
continue to bloom until frost. This plant because of its lack of leaves
is an excellent vine to grow in a hedge that produces only showy leaves.
The vin-e with its wealth of white ﬂowers and red berries ornament the
otherwise plain green hedge.

SCROPHULARIACEAE

Oastilleja indiviisa Engelm. Texas Painted Cup. Found in sections 4A,
4, 4B, 1, 2, parts of 3 and 5. A low-growing annual with lanceolate
entire leaves bearing red tubular ﬂowers accompanied by colored bracts.
This is the most widespread and abundant of the painted cups. This
entire genus is partially parasitic. It is quite diﬁicult to get the plants
started away from the original stand. The seed are very small and if
planted in a worked garden will seldom grow; however if a square
of sod or soil bearing a ﬂowering plant be transferred to the place where
the new growth is wanted, the gardener may feel assured that the next
year he will have a fair crop of these plants. It is much easier to start
the plant from seed by depositing the seed in the grass on a lawn than
by planting in an open garden. Because of the beauty of this plant
is will well repay the efforts to get it to grow.

124 BULLETIN NO. 551, TEXAS AGRICULTURAL EXPERIMENT STATION

Oastilleja Lindheimeri A. Gray. Indian Paint Brush. A strong-growing
painted cup native to sections 4A, 4, and parts of 3, 5, and 6. This
plant is as highly colored as the ﬁrst species, but the colors are softer and
more varied in the number of hues. This plant like the other can be
transplanted by removing a section of the original place of growth with
the plant.

Gerardia heterophylla Nutt. The Prairie Gerardia. A beautiful but little-
known plant growing to the height of about two feet, having dark-colored
slender stems, small lanceolate to ovate leaves, and bearing numerous
trumpet-shaped pink to red ﬂowers about one-half of an inch in length.
This Gerardia grows through the central part of Texas and can be grown
by collecting the seed and sowing it in the early fall. Gerardia like
some other species are more or less periodic. In the wild the plants

will be quite abundant and then it will be a number of years before one A

is seen again; however all the species respond to cultivation to such an
extent that after the seed is planted in the fall of the year, the grower
will be rewarded by numerous plants the next spring.

Gerardia purpurea L. Large purple Gerardia. Found in sections 4B, and
2 and will grow in parts of 4A, 4, 3, and 5. A plant very similar to the
last species but bearing a purple ﬂower about one and one-half inches
long, this is a very showy plant and should be grown in yards where
one wishes new and little known ﬂowers. It has its place in park
plantings, in that it can be started on hillsides and will take care of
itself throughout the years. For roadside work the seed should be
scattered where soft soils occur. The result will be occasional groups
of this large purple-ﬂowered ornamental.

Leucophyllum. frutescens (Berl.) Johnston. Ceniza. Gray green shrub
found in sections 3, 5, and 6 but is growing under cultivation in every
section in the state. It is too well known to need description. It is
best secured by buying balled plants from nurseries. To have species
in good bloom each year the old wood must be cut from the bush in
November or December. This assures new wood and an abundance of
bloom for the next year.

Leucophyllum minus A. Gray. A low-growing and almost prostrate gray
green shrub found only in Trans-Pecos Texas. It resembles Leucophyllum
frutescens except that it has much smaller leaves and ﬂowers; however for
a beautiful bush to ornament a rock garden or to give color to a collec-
tion of desert plants, there is nothing more beautiful than this prostrate
shrub. This, like the other species, should be purchased from a nursery-
man.

Linarm tezvana Scheele. Blue Toad Flax. A very dainty blue-ﬂowered
plant consisting of a rosette of ovate leaves which become noticeable
in very early spring. With the ﬁrst warm days a stalk is put up to a
height of about one foot, from which comes six or eight bright blue
ﬂowers. One side of the corolla tube is prolonged to a spur. As the
plant is an annual, native to nearly all of Texas, it will pay anyone

 

VALUABLE PLANTS NATIVE TO TEXAS 125

interested in growing peculiar plants to collect the seed in April and
May and sow it again in October and November. After it is sown
on freely worked garden soil, the gardener can be assured of a good
stand of these plants. The ﬂowers are small and the bloom lasts but
two weeks; however the beauty of the bed will amply repay the grower.

Linaria vulgaris Hill. Butter and Eggs. A perennial Linaria introduced
around the large towns of Texas; will grow anywhere it is planted.
It consists of underground root clusters which in early spring give rise
to numerous straight stems about one and one-half inches long. These
stand upright along the stems. From the top a cluster of ﬁfteen to
twenty snap-dra.gon yellow ﬂowers, each one of which has a large spur,
is borne. This plant, unlike most of the introduced weeds, is peculiar
in that it does not spread. A cluster of them will bloom each year and
yet never increase in numbers. If one wishes new plants, root divisions
or growing from seed must be resorted to. It is quite interesting to
record that this plant is known throughout Europe as “Tausend Golden
Kronen” and in this form plays a very important part in the folk-lore
history of Europe. This story has been transported to central Texas
and so altered as to ﬁt the country, the people, and ﬂowers, and strange
to say in central Texas “Ta-usend Golden Kronen” is the name applied
to a pink ﬂower. A

Maurandya anttrrhiniﬂora Humb. and Bonpl. Blue Vine Snapdragon. An
annual plant native to sections 4A, 4, 4B, 3, 5, and 6, but will grow any-
where in the state of Texas. It is very proliﬁc, producing numerous
slender green stems which cover the support given to the plant. The
leaves are about one-half by one inch and somewhat triangular. Through
the summer and fall this plant is covered by blue and white snapdragon
ﬂowers and after the coming of cold weather the vine is a mass of
capsules, thus making it easy to obtain seed. The seed should be planted
in November and December in yards where small trellises are to be
covered. Where an evergreen or other hedge which produces no ﬂowers
of its own is used, these plants should be grown on either side; thus in
late summer the hedge will bear numerous blue ﬂowers as the vine to
which the ﬂowers belong will not show through the leaves of the support-
ing plant. This dainty vine is excellent around a porch where it needs
only a very light support.

Mimulus alatus Ait. Found in sections 4A, 4, 4B, 1, and 2. It grows in
moist or wet places along the margins of water courses and swamps.
It grows to the height of eighteen to twenty inches and produces in
the axils of the lanceolate leaves violet ﬂowers which are not over one
inch in length. The plant will grow as an annual during the ﬁrst year,
after which it returns from perennial root stalks. It is easily trans-
planted by root divisions or grown from seed. This plant is one of the
best for winter plantings in parks and along water fronts. It has a
place in any yard which has a small lily pool. Commercial.

Penstemon ambiguus Torr. The Pink Plains Penstemon. A plant native
to sections 7, 7A, 5, and 6 and will undoubtedly grow in 4A, 4, 4B, 1,
and 3. The plant grows from a heavy cluster of perennial roots. In early

126 BULLETIN NO. 551, TEXAS AGRICULTURAL EXPERIMENT STATION

summer it puts up a number of straight stems about one foot high. These
and succeeding stalks bear throughout the summer numerous pink tubular
ﬂowers about three-fourths of an inch long. The plant at a little distance
reminds one very much of Phlox. The mouth of the corolla tube, differ-
ing from most tubular ﬂowers, is abruptly turned upward giving a
peculiar shape to the ﬂower. There is no record of this plant having
been cultivated, but as many other species of this genus have been
brought into cultivation, there is no doubt but that this one will respond
just as readily. The plant can be secured by root divisions or grown
from seed. As it occurs all over the state, it doubtless will ﬂourish and
in time become a commercial plant.

Penstemon Gobaea Nutt. Foxglove of Texas school children. One of the
largest and most showy of the Texas Penstemons. Native throughout
Texas. The leaves are smooth and glossy, the ﬂower stem tipped by a
long spike of showy pink to red ﬂowers. The plant is annual or biennial.
It can be grown from seed. As a plant in any yard, it is a beautiful
addition. In park work the seed of this species should be sown on hill-
sides where shade and moisture exist. Commercial.

Penstemon grandiﬂorus Nutt. Large-ﬂowered Penstemon found in sections
7, 7A, 4A, 4, 4B, and 5 and will probably grow anywhere planted. A tall-
growing plant with smooth succulent leaves and bearing very large blue
to purple ﬂowers, some of the corollas being two inches in length.
plant is common in the northern plains country which extends into
Texas. It is annual or biennial. The seed can be procured by collection
from a plant grown in the wild or purchased. The seed should be sown
in September or October in a well-prepared seed bed preferably in
partial shade. The seedlings are very small at ﬁrst but rapidly form
a rosette. If the winter is dry the plant should be watered in case a.
bloom is to be expected in the summer. This is an extremely interesting
plant and should be extensively propagated where moisture and rich soils
occur throughout northwest Texas. It has been grown in yards with
great success.

Penstemon Murrayanus Hook. The Honeysuckle Penstemon. Found in
sections 4A, 4, 4B, 1, and 2. This spectacular Penstemon grows in sandy
soils generally in woodlands. It is a biennial or perennial and is best
secured by planting the seed in September and October in well prepared
seed beds where the plant is to remain. It grows to a height of three
and one-half to ﬁve feet. The leaves are ovate to triangular below and
united at the base above. The leaves are light green and succulent.
From the tips of the stem rises a spike bearing numerous red tubular
ﬂowers, some of them better than two inches in length, which makes a
bed of this plant much resemble the red honeysuckle vine. Wherever
soft soils, some shade, and moisture occur, this species should be propa-
gated. I11 many places where it has been protected, it has maintained
itself for long periods of time. This plant attracted the attention of the
early settlers in northeastern Texas where the plant is found abundantly
around the older dwellings.

This A

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. pools and in small water gardens.

VALUABLE PLANTS NATIVE TO TEXAS 127

Verbascum Blattaria L. Moth Mullen. An introduced plant found along
the Gulf Coast. It is a winter annual and produces a rosette of thin
lanceolate green leaves through the winter. In the summer it sends up
stalks to the height of two to ﬁve feet which bear white to yellow ﬂowers
sometimes one and one-half inches across. It is a splendid plant to form
a background for more showy species. It is able to maintain itself any-
where and should be planted along roadsides, as this will give in a short
time a spectacular ﬂower garden. It is to be remembered that this plant

may become a weed; therefore it must be held in check by the gardener.

Commercial.

Verbascum Thapsus L. Mullen. Found in sections 7, 7A, 4A, '4, 4B, 1, 3,
and 5. This is the mullen of Europe and America. Nowhere in Texas
is it very abundant with the exception of some parts of sections 1, 2, and 9.
The plant itself will attract the attention of anyone, especially when it is
full grown. The plant is an annual or biennial. Under optimum condi-
tions the seeds germinate in October, and in November form a rosette
of lanceolate leaves, sometimes ﬁfteen inches long and covered with thick
white wool. Sometimes these rosettes exist through a growing period of
two to three years, storing suﬂicient food to ripen the seed. When
moisture is sufficient, a stem arises from the rosette which at times
reaches a height of seven to eight feet. The lower part of the, stem is
covered with small lanceolate woolly leaves bearing a single light extension
which reaches from one leaf to another, the whole thing being covered
with wool. From June to September the ﬂowering stalks, which are on
about the upper third of stalk, produce yellow ﬂowers three-fourths of an
inch in diameter. Where the plant is in ﬂower it is one of the most
interesting of ornamentals. To someone who has never seen this plant
before, it is a source of wonder and delight. It can be obtained by‘
planting the seed in the fall and thinning out the rosettes in early spring
so that they have room and are allowed to bloom where planted. This
species is recommended for roadside and park work as it will grow and

. thrive 011 rocky hillsides where some plants fail.

LENTIBULARIACEAE

Ptnguicula pumila Michx. A swamp plant growing in sections 4A, 4, 4B,
1, 2, 3, and 5. This plant will grow anywhere in wet places that it is
given protection. It is one of the plants which has been used in lily
The plant consists of a rosette of ﬁat

lanceolate leaves. It bears through the year slender stalks reaching a

, height of from three to eight inches that bear a light blue ﬂower nearly
p. one inch in length. The plants need shade and much moisture,’ and must
‘i. not be exposed to the direct rays of the sun.
4- to any small garden where water planting is maintained.
J water plantings exist, a bed set apart to this swamp plant is attractive.
 It can be secured by obtaining seedlings in the wild or growing from

This plant is an addition
In parks where

 seed. The seed should be sprinkled on the surface of the ground where

 the plant will grow. The seed will germinate any time of year.

128 BULLETIN NO. S51, TEXAS AGRICULTURAL EXPERIMENT STATION
Utricularia gibba L. Hump-back Bladderwort.
for shallow water plantings.

in the fall or winter and placed where marshy conditions exist.

Utricularm mﬂata Walt.
grow anywhere a water garden is maintained. It differs from the ﬁrst
species in that it has quite large inﬂated leaf stems and produces a
spike which bears several yellow ﬂowers at least one-half inch across.
This plant is common in the fresh water swamps and "marshes of the
eastern part of the state. It is easily propagated by carrying the plants
which, when wrapped in paper, can be transported for several days with-
out injury to the plant. In collecting for replanting, masses of the plant
should be scraped from the surface of the swamp, put into a paper sack,
and when the new location is reached spread out about the same thickness
on the mud or water location. This plant bears large ﬂowers and is
adapted for cultivation as an ornamental.

OROBANCHAGEAE

Orobanche ludoviciana Nutt. Louisiana Broom Rape. A very peculiar
parasitic plant found in sections 4A, 4, 4B, 5, 6, and probably elsewhere.
This plant is parasitic on the roots of desert shrubs. As a curiosity it is
one of the ﬁnest plants to grow. To obtain this plant, one must ﬁnd a
colony, procure the seed of the parasite, and plant it in the shade of the
same species of plant on which this parasite grew. The parasite is to be
looked for in sandy lands under the shade of small bushes. It grows to a
height of six to eight inches. The plant is about one-half of an inch
in diameter, yellowish in color, and bears very peculiar red to purple
ﬂowers. To those wishing to experiment with plants, this is an interest-
ing one.

BIGNONIACEAE

Bignonia capreolata L. Cross Vine. Not uncommon in sections 4A, 1, and
2 and will grow in 4 and parts of 3 and 5.
smooth green bark and bearing very numerous lanceolate leaves about
two inches in length. Through the summer it .bears large numbers of
clusters of short trumpet-shaped ﬂowers which are about two inches
in length and one and one-half inches across the mouth. The ﬂower is
yellow on the outside and red on the inside. It is a very handsome and
desirable vine. It is hardy and will grow wherever planted. The species
gets its name from the fact that a cross section of the_vine no matter
how large or small shows a cross of hard cells in the wood. This makes
it easy to identify even from the dead wood. Commercial.

Campsis radicans (L.) Seem. Trumpet Creeper. This Well-known hardy
vine growing throughout sections 4A, 4, 4B, 1, 2, 3, 5, and some places
in 7A. It has so many different names that it is necessary to adopt one
and discard the rest. The vine is called Cow Itch, as many people sup-

A very desirable plant 
It will grow and bloom abundantly through- 
out the hottest Weather in the full sun if the plants are brought there 
The 
leaves are almost hair-like and inconspicuous; however the very small i.‘
bright yellow ﬂowers, which occur in numbers, make it a very desirable 
species for water plantings or to be raised around lily pools in yards. 

Found in sections 4A, 4, 4B, 1, and 2, and will i:

A tall proliﬁc vine with ,

ab-ala ' azaille.‘ a=.&.l~§v'.»i..u¢..£.:1r.;-1<

 

VALUABLE PLANTS NATIVE TO TEXAS 129

pose it is poisonous to cattle. The technical name of the plant has been
changed every time a new list has been published. It is hoped that the
technical and common name here proposed will become standard. To
grow this vine one should either take a water sprout from nature or
plant the seed. It is probably best to plant the seed and trim the young
plants to shape. As a vine it will put out numerous water sprouts unless
it is allowed to have one tall growing stem. It should be more widely
used than at present because of its ability to stand up and bloom through
the hot dry summers.

Catalpa bignonioides Walt. Catalpa. This tree is found growing wild in
sections 1 and 2. Whether or not it is an escape is not known; however
in that part of East Texas as well as in all of the rest of the state, this
form of Catalpa should be extensively grown because of the beauty of
the ﬂowers and leaves. Commercial.

Oatalpa maeciosa Warder. Western Catalpa. This species is reported to
be growing wild in section 1 and will give good results all over Texas.
It, however, does not produce as good looking trees as the above species.
Commercial.

Ghtlopsis Zinearts (Cav.) DC. Desert Willow. A willow-like plant with
linear leaves, dark green bark, and producing throughout the summer,
numerous trumpet-shaped ﬂowers which are white and spotted with
purple. The ﬂowers resemble those of Catalpa. In its natural habitat
in the western part of Texas it grows as a shrub some six or eight feet
high. In eastern Texas and where it is grown under cultivation, it assumes
the dimensions of a forest tree sometimes being six inches through and
thirty feet high. This tree makes a very desirable one for yard planting,
and if it is pruned so that it may have new wood every few years, it will
produce a succession of beautiful white and purple ﬂowers. It is a. very
desirable tree for every purpose. Commercial.

Tecoma stans (L.) Juss., var. angustifolia. Rehder. An annual or perennial
straight-growing plant reaching a height of four to ten feet, covered
through the summer with large trumpet-shaped yellow ﬂowers. The
plant is native in Trans-Pecos Texas but is in cultivation so widely that
it is known that it will grow anywhere in the state. In the Lower
Rio Grande it becomes tree-like, while in the northern part of the state
it acts as an annual and must be replanted every spring. It will well
repay the gardener to propagate this species. Commercial.

ACANTHACEAE

Anisacantlzus Wrightii (Torr.) A. Gray. A shrub with brown bark and
thin bright green leaves, bearing through the summer a profusion of red
tubular ﬂowers. The ﬂowers, about one and one-half inches long, make
this bush very desirable. It is native in sections 4A, 4, 4B, 2, 3, and 5.
This shrub is well adapted for a specimen plant in yards, parks, or along
roadsides and as hedges, since it can be pruned to shape. Following rains
it produces an abundance of bright red ﬂowers.

130 BULLETIN NO. 551, TEXAS AGRICULTURAL EXPERIMENT STATION

Beleperone comosa Nees. A very showy prostrate vine-like plant native
t0 the Lower Rio Grande. It is known in cultivation throughout the
state. The green mint-like stems are tipped through much of the year
by purple and crimson clusters of bracts and ﬂowers which make the
plant very attractive in windowboxes, hanging baskets, and for borders
for ﬂower beds. Commercial.

Dianthera americana L. Water Willow. A very peculiar upright-growing
plant with blue green foliage. It reaches a height of from ten to ﬁfteen
inches. The leaves are lanceolate and stand upright at the side of the
stalk. Through the summer it bears peculiarly shaped white and blue
ﬂowers. This plant has a place in every water planting whether the
water be running or still. In the southern part of Texas the plant blooms
throughout the year. In the northern part it blooms from April until
November. It should be propagated by root cuttings which can be found
in almost any piece of water in the state.

Ruellia ctliosa Pursh. var. humilis Britton. Hairy Ruellia. A small low-
growing plant with woolly leaves, bearing pale blue ﬂowers sometimes
two inches in length. The ﬂowers open at night and fall early the next

morning. The plant is found throughout the state of Texas; it grows

from underground root stalks, and where it occurs in numbers, is a very
desirable plant in a bed which is made up of those species which bloom
altogether on cloudy days or at night. Easily propagated by root division.

Ruellia Drummondii (Nees) A. Gray. Wild Blue Petunia. An annual
from a perennial root stalk found in sections 4A, 4, 4B, 3, and 5. Where
a perennial plant is needed for mass beautiﬁcation this species is one
that should be used. It will maintain itself in the open for years with
no care save that of protection from stock. It is most easily obtained
by collecting the seed in August and September and immediately sowing
the seed where the plants are desired. It will grow in dense shade but
prefers rather open timber and well-drained hillsides. The seed can be
procured from dealers. All Ruellias go under the name of Wild Petunias;
however they are not closely related to the genus Petunia.

Ruellta rrudiﬂora (Engelm. and Gray) Urban. Tall Ruellia. A smooth
green plant growing to a height of eighteen inches to three feet, bearing
through the summer numerous light blue tubular ﬂowers. The tube is
often one and one-half inches long and one inch across. This plant comes
from a perennial root system. It can be procured by making root
divisions. Where the plant is given protection and cultivation, it makes
a most beautiful yard plant as the clusters of green leaves, topped by
large purple ﬂowers, are very showy. It will grow anywhere in the
state of Texas where planted.

Ruellia strepens L. Smooth Ruellia. Very similar to Ruellia nudiﬂora;
however neither the plant nor ﬂowers possess any wool. This plant like
the other can be propagated by root division and they make good com-
panion plants. The ﬂowers of this plant are red. These are valuable
for park and roadside work. They are natives of the eastern part of
Texas but will grow anywhere in the state. Commercial.

E.
P:

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VALUABLE PLANTS NATIVE TO TEXAS 131

Siphonoglossa Dipterocanthus (Nees) Heller. A perennial herb native to
sections 2 and 3, and parts of 4B. It will grow wherever planted. It con-
sists of stems which are green and bear many small ovate leaves.
Throughout the entire year, it bears numerous red purple tubular ﬂowers
about one-half inch long. As a perennial border plant in a yard, there
is no better species. It also has a place in a rock garden and for plant-
ings around lily pools, where it makes double its normal growth. The
plant can be grown from seed or transplanted from the wild.

S-iphonoglossa pilosella (Nees) Torr. A perennial herb found in sections
4A, 4, 4B, 3, 5, and 6. Low-growing perennial, resembling a mint and
bearing throughout the summer clusters of tubular ﬂowers about three-
fourths of an inch long. The tubes are split into lips which are variously
divided. The plant occurs in a variety of color from pure white to
deep blue. This plant is valuable as a border for park and roadside
work and acts as a soil binder. It produces a profusion of ﬂowers through-
out the summer.

Thunbergia alata Bojer. Found in section 2 and grows in cultivation in
every section of the state. The plant is a small vine, growing to a height
of six to eight feet, having small triangular leaves, and bearing through-
out the summer numerous trumpet-shaped yellow ﬂowers one and one-
half inches across which are peculiar in that they have black centers. The
ﬂower is followed by a seed pod which has a projection resembling the
open beak of a bird, whence comes the Latin name. When once Planted,
it will maintain itself either by seed or from the old root stalk. A ﬁne
plant for yards and small trellises. Commercial.

RUBIACEAE

Oephalanthus occidentalis L. Button Bush. One of the most widely
distributed shrubs in Texas, as it is found in every ﬂoral division. Where
moisture and warmth are common, the plant grows to be a sizable tree.
In other sections it grows as a small-sized perennial shrub. It will grow
either in moist localities or in soft soils. It bears a profusion of globular
small heads which are white when they ﬁrst open, afterwards turning
brown. These heads consist of many small ﬂowers and are extremely
attractive to butterﬂies. The plant blooms throughout the hottest part of
summer, making this one extremely valuable in park, roadside, or water
plantings. It can be grown from water sprouts, cuttings, or seed. Com-
mercial.

Diodia virginiana L. Large Button Weed. Found through the eastern
half of the state, growing along water courses and in marshes. It is
perennial aboveground. The stems are square, bright green, and adorned
with opposite leaves, in the axils of which are borne small red ﬂowers
which are followed by red seed capsules. As a species for water plantings,
no matter whether the water is a roadside ditch or stream, this plant
is more attractive than the ordinary ditch weeds.

Houstonia humifusa A. Gray. Pink Houstonia. Found in sections 4A, 4,
4B, 3, 5, and probably elsewhere in the state where sandy soils prevail.
The plant blooms through a period of about three weeks in March or

132 BULLETIN NO. 551, TEXAS AGRICULTURAL EXPERIMENT STATION
April. The plant is an equally-forked, much-branched herb growing to a
height of about four inches. The double division makes the plant ﬂat
topped and during the blooming season is covered by numerous pink
ﬂowers about one-third of an inch long. In sandy soils where this plant
grows abundantly, it is a most beautiful sight. The seed of the plant
can be obtained by pulling the stems as soon as the ﬂowers have dis-
appeared. The seed should be planted the next November on well pre-
pared sandy soils where there is some shade, and a good bloom can be
assured. This is a ﬁne plant for park work in sandy soils, as when once
established, it will perpetuate itself. This plant seemingly is one that
should have been brought into cultivation, but as yet has not been used.
‘The seed should be made available by dealers.’

Houstomba minima. Beck. Found in sections 7, 7A, 4A, 4, 4B, and 2. This
is the smallest showy plant in Texas. The plant at the time of the ﬁrst
bloom consists of a stalk about one-eighth of an inch long, a pair of
ovate leaves about one-sixteenth of an inch long, and a ﬂower at least
one-fourth of an inch long. The ﬂower is pale blue. New shoots arise
from the axils of the leaf and the plant continues to grow, putting out
leaves in every division for a period of a month, at which time the plant
has reached a height of at least four inches. This minute, blue-ﬂowered
plant is found in damp locations in early spring. It can be propagated
by collecting the tiny seed pods and planting these in November or
December in very small but well-prepared spots in rock gardens. This
plant should recommend itself to anyone who wishes the odd and interest-
ing in ﬂoriculture.

Mitchella repens L. Partridge Berry. A small vine-like herb found in
sections 1 and 2 but will grow under cultivation almost anywhere. It is
a favorite of window gardeners in the East. It is a prostrate vine, bear-
ing opposite ovate leaves, and at the ends of the stems, producing twin
tubular ﬂowers which are about one-half inch long. Following these, red
berries are developed which show two ﬂower scars at its surface, thus
giving the common name of twin ﬂower to this plant. Commercial.

CAPRIFOLIAOEAE

Lonicera sempervirens L. Evergreen Coral Honeysuckle. A bush honey-
suckle native to sections 4A, 4, 4B, 1, 2, 5, and 6; also grows wild in
sections 7, 7A, and 3. The plant bears numerous dark green, smooth
leaves; throughout the summer it bears spikes of ordinary red honey-
suckle ﬂowers which are followed by clusters of bright red berries. This
plant is of suﬁicient value to pay for its propagation. It should ﬁnd a
place in roadside and park work where an evergreen vine is needed. It
should also be planted in yards. Commercial.

There are four other species of Lonicera which grow wild in the state
but probably have escaped from cultivation. Where honeysuckle vines
are desired it is much better to take vines which are known to persist
without care. It is to be remembered that all honeysuckles do better
if the old wood is removed at least every two years.

. ...'.»~'....l 4.. .0. nan-I'll:  mw.at.~g“e..~‘+.»'¢.uliitﬁﬁi.iéééfiit

 

VALUABLE PLANTS NATIVE TO TEXAS 133

Sambucus canadensis L. American Elder. A tall-growing shrub that is
found in sections 4A., 4, 4B, 1, 2, 3, and 5. While it prefers moist and
shady places along the water courses, it will grow With profusion any-
where in the state. It is peculiar in that it has a weak stem, a large
pith center which has made this plant famous as a supply for spiles in
the maple sugar groves and as pop guns for boys. The tree sometimes
grows to a diameter of better than two inches and the pith cavity is
better than one-half of an inch in diameter. The leaves which are
opposite are very large and pinnately divided. At the ends of the branches
throughout the summer, large clusters of small white ﬂowers are formed
which are followed by red berries. Elder is one of the most popular
plants in waterside and park work throughout the United States. It can
‘be grown by securing water sprouts or grown from seed. It requires four
years from seed to the ﬁrst ﬂowers. The plant is recommended for
roadside work where the road transverses low, wet regions. It should
ﬁnd a place with every Water planting in parks. As a specimen plant
for yards, it is admirable.

Symphoricarpos orbiculatus Moench. Coral Berry. Found in sections 4A,
4, 4B, 1, and 2. A withe-like plant growing to the height of eighteen to
twenty inches and bearing a cluster of small white ﬂowers followed by
numerous red berries. This plant has been so widely used by landscape
gardeners that it needs neither comment nor recommendation.

Viburnum ruﬁdulum Raf. Black Haw. Found in sections 4A, 4, 4B, 2,
and 5. A small tree with green, ovate, large, smooth, reddish-brown
stems bearing in early spring a cluster of white ﬂowers which are fol-

 lowed by the well-known black haws in autumn. Because of its neat
'2‘ a appearance the black haw is an ornamental tree for any kind of planting.

It is of slow growth and long life. The white ﬂowers which are among

the ﬁrst to appear in the spring make it desirable, and the clusters of
, pink to dark blue berries in the fall make it equally ornamental after
the leaves have fallen. Commercial. There are three and probably four
other species of Viburnums that occur within the state. It is also possible
that the name here used is applied to two distinct species. This almost
;unknown plant should receive the attention not only of landscape gar-
deners but of students of botany.

    
 
  
  
   
   
   
   
  
   

VALERIANACEAE

Valerianella amarella Krok. Corn Salad. A small but beautiful annual
found in sections 4A, 4, 4B, 2, 3, and 5. This plant is found throughout
, early spring in moist and shady places where sometimes there are hun-
dreds of acres of this plant in the shade of trees, particularly cedars. It
a grows to the height of about six inches, is ﬂat topped, and bears numerous
peculiar white ﬂowers. This is the lamb’s lettuce of the comic strip.
IAs a plant for park or roadside work where moist and shady conditions
gexist, it is one of the best for mass plantings. The seed should be col-
 lected in July by harvesting the dying annual plants.

134 BULLETIN NO. 551, TEXAS AGRICULTURAL EXPERIMENT STATION

DIPSAOACEAE

Dipsacus sylvestris Huds. Card Teasel. A very tall thistle-like plant
found in section 1 and will grow under cultivation in favored localities
in sections 7, 7A, 4A, 4, 4B, 2, and 5. The plant is an annual, grows
to the height of seven to ten feet,'and produces numerous large thistle-
like heads at the ends of branches. It has opposite lanceolate leaves
sometimes ten inches in length. The ﬂower clusters are from two
to three inches in diameter and three inches long. When in bloom
the ﬂower cluster is yellow. The seed soon drop from the head. Each
individual ﬂower bears as a bract a long spine-like projection which
gives the ﬂower head the appearance of a hair brush. The ﬂower
head including the spines is very hard and stiﬁ. These seed heads
Were used in the early days to teasel or lift the nap of the freshly woven
woolen cloth, which gives the plant its common name. As a spectacular
annual plant this is without an equal. The seed should be sown in
November and if shade and moisture are present, in October of the next year
these enormous plants will be abundant. This plant should be tried in all
park Work where moist and shady conditions exist. Commercial.

CUOURBITACEAE

Oucurbita foetidissima H. B. K. Wild Gourd. This strong-smelling wild
gourd which arises from a heavy perennial root stalk is a plant that
has much to recommend it in many lines of work. Because of its endur-
ance of drought it is a ﬁne plant to use in places where little moisture
is available. The plant can be utilized in road work to cover rock ﬁlls
and other unsightly places where a green cover is needed, as the vines
grow to a length of twenty feet or more allowing the perennial root to
be at some distance from the place to be covered. Where the plant is
given protection in park work or in yards, the unsightly dying vines
removed, and given some attention if attacked by insects, this vine will
serve better than any common perennial vine.

Gucurbita Pepo L. Wild Pumpkin. A little-known but useful vine. It is
deﬁnitely a miniature pumpkin. It is found native throughout central
Texas where it grows along water courses and its vines climb to the
tops of the tallest trees. It bears deﬁnite pumpkins which are about
two and one-half inches in diameter. As this vine can withstand heat,
where a quick cover is needed for a trellis or to produce shade, this
plant is excellent. The pumpkins sowed in March will give a heavy vine
cover throughout the entire summer. This vine does not have an objec-
tionable odor. It is a matter of interest that some horticulturists think
that this is the grandfather of all pumpkins; others that it is the resultant
cross of all of the cultivated species.

Ibermlllea Lindheimeri (A. Gray) Greene. Wild Balsam Apple. A little
known beautiful ornamental found throughout sections 7A, 4A, 4,
4B, 3, and 5. The plant grows from an underground tuber from which
in early spring a small vine very similar to the cultivated watermelon
rises, climbs to the height of three to four feet, and produces numerous

VALUABLE PLANTS NATIVE TO TEXAS 135

small yellow ﬂowers very similar to the cultivated watermelon. These
are followed by fruits one inch in length and while green are miniature
watermelons but by the middle of summer they turn bright red and
attract the attention of everyone as they hang in clusters. This plant is
not poisonous as is commonly supposed. It is easily obtained by digging
tubers in the wild. The ordinary vine will form one to twenty of these
large tubers and it does not endanger the plant in the wild to dig tubers
in order to establish new colonies. As an ornamental for a trellis or
to grow on a rock bluﬁ there is no better species.

Melothria pendula L. Creeping Cucumber. A very dainty vine found
wherever shade and much moisture exist. The leaves are about one
inch across, ﬁve pointed, and borne on almost wire-like stems. It pro-
duces numerous small yellow ﬂowers which resemble small watermelons
about one-half inch in length. Where the vine is grown on a trellis, it
is very ornamental. It is an annual or perennial and is easily obtained
by planting the fruits. As a background in a water planting, this species
is ﬁne.

GAMPANULACEAE

Specularia biﬂora (R. and P.) F. & M. Small Venus’ Looking Glass. A
peculiar plant common to sections 4A, 4, 4B, 1, 2, and parts of 3 and
5. It occurs anywhere the land is protected from cattle. The individual
plant consists of an upright stalk, which bears in abundance opposite,
ovate leaves. In the axils of each, two blue, ﬁve-pointed ﬂowers are
borne. This plant commences to bloom in early spring and blooms for
a period of approximately two months. A start of this species can be
obtained by collecting the dry stems and threshing the seed which should
be planted in October or November. Where moist and shady conditions
exist in parks, this plant should be used.

Specularia perfoliata (L.) A.DC. Venus’ Looking Glass. A plant found
in almost all sections; resembles the last species but grows taller and
the leaves are mostly joined at their base. In this cup formed by the
junction of the two leaves, a pair of bright blue ﬂowers is borne. As
the stem increases in height the ﬂowers continue to bloom. Growth
lasts until the dry weather of midsummer puts an end to the plant. Like
the other species this plant is easily obtained by collecting the seed.
It is recommended for yard work where it should be planted as a back-
ground of a house or fence.

LOBELIACEAE

Lobelia cardinalis L. Cardinal Flower. This plant grows in every section
of the state wherever moisture and shade occur. In sections where it
does not frost, it reaches a height of eight to ten feet. It bears through-
out summer numerous scarlet ﬂowers which are one and one-half inches
in length. This species is easily raised from seed or by root divisions.
It should be cultivated wherever shade and moisture occur. Along water-

136 BULLETIN NO. 551, TEXAS AGRICULTURAL EXPERIMENT STATION

fronts where the plant has some protection until it has established itself,
it will grow in the open sun. In certain localities in the state this plant
could be utilized for roadside work with a great deal of satisfaction as
it would grow in the edge of running streams or where springs exist
by the side of the road.

Lobelia Halei Small. Great Blue Lobelia. This is’ a companion plant for-
the cardinal ﬂower, having the same growing habits and growing to the
same size; but the ﬂower is larger and blue. A group of these two

 

  

species in water plantings makes a very beautiful combination and will‘ ‘

amply repay any gardener who takes the pains to obtain and grow them.

COMPOSITAE

Achillea Millefolium L. Yarrow. Found in sections 7A, 4, 4B, 1, 2, and
parts of 3 and 5. This plant was probably introduced into Texas many
years ago as it is one of the European medicinal plants. Its ﬁrst appear-
ance is as an early winter rosette of green fern-like leaves, but by spring
this rosette has become quite large, reaching a diameter of eight or ten
inches. From this cluster arises fruiting stalks up to three feet in
length. These bear a few pinnately divided fern-like leaves and a cluster
of small white composite ﬂowers. The cluster is about two inches across
and the ﬂowers are all on the same level. The plant has a medicinal
odor. This is the yarrow of literature and is most common throughout
the Eastern United States and Europe. It will grow anywhere in Texas.
Commercial. ’

Actinea acaulis (Pursh) Spreng. Stemless Actinea. A most beautiful plant
which should be cultivated in every rock garden in the state of Texas.
It consists of a short but heavy underground root stalk and produces at
various times through the summer a composite ﬂower with pale yellow
petals ornamented by ﬁne brown lines parallel with the length of the
petals. The center of the ﬂower is small and dark yellow. The plant
has but few linear leaves which lie ﬂat on the ground. The ﬂower which
is one and one-half inches in diameter has no stem and apparently lies
touching the ground. This plant is found in sections 7, 7A, 5, and 6, and
will grow anywhere planted, as it has been introduced and is proﬁtably
used in Alpine garden work in Europe. This plant should be made avail-
able by dealers in the United States. The seed can be purchased from
dealers in Europe. So far there is no dealer in the United States
offering the seed of this plant for sale.

Actinea odorata (DG.) Kuntze. Western Bitter Weed. Found in sections
7, 7A, 4A, 4, 3, 5, and 6. If it were not for the fact that this plant is
poisonous to cattle and is very abundant, it would be widely cultivated
as an ornamental throughout the western part of Texas. The planthas
in its favor the fact that it can look prosperous under the most adverse
conditions. It always has a bright green appearance and bright golden
ﬂowers. The odor from them is pleasing. In sections especially in parks

VALUABLE PLANTS NATIVE TO TEXAS 137

and along roadsides in parts of the country where range is not depended
upon, this plant should be used. It makes an especially beautiful cluster
of yellow ﬂowers in a yard.

Actinea soaposa (DC) Kuntze. Stemmed Actinea. Found in sections 4A,
4, 3, 5, and 6. The plant consists of a rosette of. linear gray leaves bear-
ing throughout the summer leaﬂets three to ﬁve inches in length, topped
by a single bright yellow composite ﬂower. So far as known this plant
does not occur in suﬁicient quantities to be dangerous to livestock and is
a beautiful ornamental along roadsides, and in parks and yards. The
seed can be procured from the wild by gathering the ripened ﬂower
heads.

Ageratum corymbosum Zuccag. Purple Boneset. A perennial weak
stemmed shrub occurring on the Gulf Coast from Corpus Christi inland
through section 3 in suitable locations. The plant is a most beautiful
shrub, covered by triangular leaves which are a bronze green in color
with pebbled surfaces. It bears clusters of purple to blue composite
ﬂowers without rays. Throughout the entire year the plant is easily
obtained by cuttings, root divisions, or seed. It should be very largely
planted in yards and parks and on roadsides in the southern parts of
sections 4A, 4, 4B, 2, 5, and everywhere in 3. This plant, however, re-
quires some moisture and shade. Commercial.

Amblyolepis setigera DC. A daisy-like plant bearing smooth blue green
leaves and reaching a height of ﬁfteen inches. Throughout spring this
plant produces a wealth of yellow daisy ﬂowers more than one inch in
diameter. The ﬂowers are not only beautiful but have a pleasing odor.
The color and the fact that bees work it abundantly give it the common
name of honey daisy. This plant is native to sections 7, 7A, 4A, 4,
3, 5, and probably everywhere else in the state. This plant should be
used very widely in roadside and park work as it gives a ﬁne cover and
blooms throughout more than a month in spring. It sufficiently dis-
appears that other native plants can occupy the territory during the
summer and fall. It will re-seed itself and needs only protection from
livestock. If one wishes a particularly ﬁne bed, the young plants must
be thinned to six inch squares in early spring. Commercial.

Aphanostephus slcirrhobasis (DC.) Trelease. The large White Daisy. A
very common plant in sections 7A, 4A, 4, 4B, 1, 2, 3, 5, and probably
occurs in 7 and 6. This is a large white daisy which is more common
in sandy soils than elsewhere but is common in every section. This
plant under cultivation and protection grows taller and bloomsthrough
a longer period of time than its wild neighbor. The plant when culti-
vated in a yard will continue to bloom from the ﬁrst of April until the
ﬁrst of August and again, if moisture is abundant, from September until
November. This large white daisy should be widely planted along road-
sides and in parks.

Aphanostephus humilis (BenthJGray. Similar to the above species but
the ﬂowers are only one-half the diameter. The ray ﬂowers are white,

_ pink, and purple in contrast to the pure white of the larger species. This

138 BULLETIN NO. 551, TEXAS AGRICULTURAL EXPERIMENT STATION

plant is the most abundant composite in sections 7, 7A, 4A, 4, 4B and 5
and occurs in parts of 3. This small-ﬂowered composite grows in such
heavy populations that it presents a solid ﬁeld of white where protected
from livestock. It can withstand heat and drought and does well on
poor soils. It has a distinct value in sections where adverse conditions
make the raising of ﬂowers a task. The seed can be collected from the
wild by pulling the ripened heads.

Aplopappus megacephalus (Nash) Hitchc. Large ﬂowered Aplopappus. A
most beautiful composite growing in sections 2, 3, 5, and 6. The plant
consists of a heavy stem reaching the height of two to three feet. It
bears abundant green leaves which are toothed and also many clusters
of yellow ﬂowers about three-fourths of an inch in diameter. This
stem arises from a perennial root. The stems occur in clusters of from
ﬁfteen to twenty. The plant prefers soft soils with considerable mois-
ture but without much shade. This plant makes a ﬁne roadside orna-
mental as it will bloom through a period of two months each year. In
a yard it is a most beautiful specimen plant, as under cultivation and
care it will grow to the height of three feet and produce more abundant
ﬂowers than in nature. In park work this plant should be given a place
along waterfronts. There are eighteen other species and varieties in
this genus, all of them perennial plants coming from a heavy root stalk,
growing in clusters, and producing, in summer or fall, dense clusters
of composite ﬂowers of various shades of yellow. All of these plants
are candidates for a place as ornamentals where it is desired to adorn
parks, roadsides, or yards with plants which will take care of themselves
and will live through periods of time.

Arctium minus Schk. Burdock. A most peculiar composite which is an
introduction to Texas. It is, however, sparingly distributed throughout
the northern parts of 7, 4A, and 4. As a specimen plant, this is spec-
tacular. It is an annual under optimum conditions but as a rule requires
about four years from seed to seed. To obtain the plant, seed should
be procured and planted in the fall of the year on a piece of land where
the plants are to be grown. As soon as the seedlings come up, they
should be thinned to foot squares. The next spring these seedlings should
be set out not closer than three feet apart. The rosettes continue to
grow throughout the ﬁrst summer. The plant much resembles cultivated
rhubarb; however the stems and leaves are covered with white wool.
In good soils and during a good year these leaves sometimes reach a
length of two feet, making a rosette which is very attractive. During
the lifetime of the rosette a heavy tap root is developed that goes some-
times to a depth of six to eight feet in the soil. When the plant has
reached its full maturity and correct weather conditions exist, a stalk
covered with wool sometimes three inches in diameter at the bottom
will arise from the rosette, and bears a few triangular leaves. At the
height of from four to six feet, the stem gives rise to a number of
clusters of peculiar purple tassels which as the seed commence to ripen

‘will turn the soft bracts into hooked hard spines, giving the name of

burdock to this plant. As the seeds ripen they utilize all of the stored

VALUABLE PLANTS NATIVE TO TEXAS 139

food in the plant. At that time it is possible with little exertion to pull
one of these enormous plants from the soil as the woody deep root
breaks loose from the bark. In the Central states, where this plant is
considered a weed, advantage is taken of this fact and at that time of
year these huge weeds bearing the unripened seed are pulled from the
ground, dried, and burned. Recommended for a specimen plant in yards
and collections of choice plants.

Artemisia dracunculoides Pursh. Sage Brush, Wormwood. A weed-like
evergreen shrub covered with numerous linear leaves. Found everywhere
in the sand hills and in places in hard lands of sections 7, 7A, 4A, 4, 4B,
5, and 6. This is one of the sagebrushes of literature and is one of
the rlants that have put an end to the Great American Desert. All

of this genus can endure sand dune conditions and have gradually en-_

croached on the blowing sands until in places sand dunes have ceased
to blow. The plant is utilized somewhat by cattle, but as a roadside
ornamental, a sand binder, and a specimen plant in yards, this sage-
brush has vast possibilities. It can be easily procured by obtaining root
divisions.

Artcmisia meacicana Willd. Wormwood. This is the common Wormwood
or dusty miller found throughout sections 4A, 4, 4B, 2, 3, 5, and 6.
It likes soft soils and some shade. It grows from a perennial root mass
and in clusters, some of these occupying at least one acre of ground.
Throughout the summer the plant is a mass of silver gray, the stems
reaching a height of about two feet. In fall it puts up numerous very
small ﬂower heads which are later followed by the clusters of snowy
white tassels. The leaves of this species have long been used as a
mdicine under the name of Wormwood. The plant is also a favorite with
the makers of cut-ﬂower bouquets, as it forms sprays of silver gray which
stand up very well with cut ﬂowers. The plant is easily obtained and
easily grown. All that is necessary is to get a section of the root and
plant it. After that, all that is needed is protection from livestock.
There are seven other species of sagebrush in the state of Texas, all of
which have the same properties, the same values, and are called by the
same name. All should be utilized for their ornamental and protective
values.

Aster Wrightii Gray. Found only in section 6. So far as known it has
been brought into cultivation only at ranch houses in that section. It
is one of the most beautiful of the aster family. The plant is low grow-
ing, being not over a foot in height, the ﬂowers reaching the diameter
of almost two inches. The ray ﬂowers are from white to purple with
a yellow center. This species blooms throughout the middle of summer.
It can withstand much drought and blooms in the open sun. The plant
is a perennial and grows from a heavy root stalk. In the places where
the plant has been brought under cultivation the root clusters have
been transplanted. This is a most beautiful plant as the leaf bracts
around the ﬂowers and the ﬂowers themselves are extremely pleasing.
Someone should make this species available to the public.

14o BULLETIN NO. s51, TEXAS AGRICULTURAL EXPERIMENT STATION

Aster spinosus Benth. A very peculiar plant seldom recognized as an
aster. Through most of its life it bears no leaves but large numbers of
long slender green branches. In the late fall some few clusters will
bear numerous small white aster-like ﬂowers. The plant receives its
name because there occur a few sharp spines at the base of each of the
main stalks. This plant is one of the best native species for erosion
control. It can be started by root divisions and when once started can
withstand any kind of erosion. It should be used around the ends of
abutments of bridges and other places where erosion from rains occurs.
The plant makes an excellent hedge along banks of ravines and other
places where something to hide unsightly places is needed which is
both beautiful and will hold together eroding soils around walls.

Aster tanacettfolius H. B. K. Tansy Aster. Found in sections 7, 7A, 4A,
4, 5, and 6. An aster which grows abundantly throughout the most of
western Texas. It commences to bloom in early spring and continues
throughout the summer. It is a perennial rising from a heavy root stalk
and bears a cluster of thick stems about a foot high. These are covered
with shiny, divided, dark green leaves. The ﬂowers are about three-
fourths of an inch in diameter, purple with a yellow center. This plant
is one of the most dainty and most showy plants in the plains country
of Texas. It is easily transplanted from the wild by means of root divi-
sions. In many towns in sections 2 and 3 this has been planted along
walks and in beds in yards, where under cultivation and protection they
reach almost twice their normal size. This is a very desirable plant
and should be made available. There are ﬁfty-four other species of aster
which bloom in the state of Texas, among which are many that are
already used for ornamental purposes and many more that should be
tried out. Anyone wishing to do original work with the cultivation of
wild ﬂowers should attempt the cultivation of all of the species of aster
in his immediate neighborhood. The ones that have been tried have
amply repaid for the labor used in securing them. The more showy
species are desirable stock for exchange or sale.

Baccharis angustifolia Michx. Found‘ in sections 4B, 2, and 3. A low-
growing perennial shrub reaching a height of more than two feet, bear-
ing very numerous needle-shaped leaves about two inches long, and
during a portion of the year small yellowish composite ﬂowers. This
plant is very common along the Gulf Coast and in the Nueces Valley.
At times the leaves are somewhat sticky with a resinous substance.
As a low hedge plant to be used either for ornament, windbreak, or
protection from poultry, this shrub has a place. It is easily trans-
planted from the wild or can be grown from the seed. When grown
from seed and cultivated, the plants grow straight, taller, and more
vigorous than in the Wild. This shrub has a place for roadside work,
in that it will not only hide rough soils, but will tie-together heavy
sands and eroding sections. Attention is called to the fact that the
name of this species has been applied by horticulturists to Baccharis
neglecta, which does not occur in the same locality and‘ which is the
common Baccharis of sections 7A, 4A, 4, 4B, and parts of 2.

VALUABLE PLANTS NATIVE TO TEXAS 141

Baccharis halimifolia L. Groundsel Tree. A very peculiar bush growing
to a height of about ﬁve feet, extremely common to the Gulf Coast
where it grows under the name of false willow. In the fall of the

_year the ﬂat tops of the plant are yellow with the small clustres of

composite ﬂowers and afterwards white with the ripened seeds. A few
plants of this species exist in sections 4A, 4, 4B, and 1, and where they
grow on upland they develop a woody shrub sometimes ten feet in
height and having a diameter of two inches. The plant is told from
other species by the almost triangular leaves bearing two or more
tooth-like projections. This plant is recommended for use anywhere in
sections 4, 4B, 1, and 2, or the eastern parts of 3 where a heavy
thornless hedge is needed. This plant is good for the control of blow-
ing sands and washing of soils along ﬁat lands of the Gulf Coast.

Bacchamls neglecta Britt. Linear-leafed and the most widely distributed
species in the state. It has increased very heavily in distribution and
population during the last twenty years. It is the ﬁrst invader on
abandoned farms and pasture lands. It does better in sandy soils than
hard, but will grow anywhere. The plant has a number of valuable
uses. For roadside work it can be used to great advantage to guard
the ends of culverts or other places now commonly guarded by cement
or wooden posts. Baccharis is evergreen and grows to quite a height.
It will attract more attention than a wooden post and is beautiful
besides. Should a car hit the obstruction the very pliable shrub will
in no way injure the car and will probably ease it over the obstruction.
It will not hurt the plant as it recovers very rapidly from ill treatment.
For a hedge to hide any kind of a background, this is one of the best
materials. Around recreation buildings especially in parks and in way-
side parks where evergreen hedges are needed to hide unsightly out-
buildings, this is an ideal plant. It can be obtained most easily by
transplanting the numerous seedlings which are found around the
old plants. When cultivated, it will grow to a ﬁne hedge the ﬁrst
year. To perpetuate a hedge of this plant the old wood should be
removed at least every two years.

Baccharis salicina T. and G. Willow Baccharis. A species which is con-
ﬁned to sections 7, 7A, 5, and 6 where it is the most common green
shrub throughout the year. It is found only along water courses and
in moist places. It very closely resembles willow and grows to a
height of about three to four feet. This species like neglecta is being
used by the residents of its habitat as hedges around yards and for
backgrounds for ﬂower beds. The plant is especially valuable as it is
a native to the country where tumbleweeds abound, and a yard with a
hedge of this plant will stop the tumbleweeds from coming in. It also
binds loose sandy soils and helps in the control of wind erosion.

Bailey/a multriradiata Harv. and Gray. Yellow-ﬂowered composite found in
sections 4A, 4, 3, 5, and 6. A low-growing perennial the stems of
which bear numerous linear leaves and stalks, each of which produces
a yellow daisy-like ﬂower about three-fourths of an inch in diameter.

142 BULLETIN NO. 5S1, TEXAS AGRICULTURAL EXPERIMENT STATION

This plant blooms throughout the year whenever weather conditions
are favorable. In many places it has been transplanted and grown
under the name of yellow daisy. It has possibilities for gardens which
are to be planted with perennial ever-blooming ﬂowers.

Berlandiera lymta Benth. The Lyre-leafed Berlandiera. The low-growing,
daisy-like plant consisting of a rosette of lyrate leaves found in sections
5 and 6 and also in parts of 7A, 4, 4A, and 3. It bears at various
times during the summer a stalk about eight inches high, bearing from
three to ﬁve peculiarly constructed daisy-like ﬂowers. The head of this
composite is extremely ﬂat. The large green bracts which are under
the purple ﬂower make this bloom very conspicuous. The plant can be
grown from seed or transplanted by root divisions.

Berlandiera texana DC. Berlandier’s Daisy. Found in sections 4A, 4, 4B, 1,
2, 3, and parts of 5. A plant consisting of a rough stem reaching the
height of three to four feet, bearing rough ovate leaves and at times
throughout the summer, clusters of yellow, ﬂat, daisy-like ﬂowers. This
is one of the peculiar and attractive daisies of Texas. It should receive
a place in collections of plants, especially in well-kept parks and yards,
where this plant should be grown, as it was named for one of the
botanists collecting in Texas many years ago.

Bidens artstosa (Michx.) Britton. Boot Jacks. A very beautiful annual
growing to a height of ﬁve to six feet, bearing in late summer a wealth
of sunﬂower blooms nearly two inches across. The plant is found
abundantly in moist localities in sections 4A, 4, 4B, and 1. It is a
good honey plant and a ﬁne ornamental. The only objection is the
peculiar boot jack-shaped seed the arms of which are covered with
spines by which it fastens itself to the passer-by, to secure the dis-
tribution of the species. Where large areas of waste lands or lands
that are subject to overﬂow exist, this plant will cover the mud ﬂats
and hide much unsightly territory. A mass of these plants is a beautiful
thing and at the same time makes a good honey plant.

Bidens bipinnata L. Spanish Needles. A member of this genus that is
here mentioned to call the attention of the ﬂower grower to a plant
which, if allowed to work into water plantings and covers for overﬂow
lands, may get beyond the control of the grower. The plant resembles
the above species in every particular until it comes to the blooming
period, at which time the bloom has no showy ray ﬂowers and produces
a cluster of slender seed about three-fourths of an inch in length,
every one of which is armed by several sharp spines that are barbed.
This assures the distribution of the plant a11d makes it dreaded by those
who have to come in contact with it. When this plant is found, it
should be destroyed.

Boltonia diﬁusa Ell. Bolton’s Aster. A plant growing in and around
water in sections 4A, 4, 4B, 1, 2 and parts of 3. The plant consists
of thick colonies of straight, green-growing stems which are ornamented
by lanceolated smooth green leaves throughout the summer and fall.

VALUABLE PLANTS NATIVE TO TEXAS 143

This plant is covered by small White aster ﬂowers. Boltonia has a
place in every water planting in the state and probably will grow any-
where planted. It can be propagated either by root divisions or by
collecting the seed.

Borrichia frutescens (L.) DC. Sea Ox-eye. A composite perennial largely
restricted to the Gulf Coast; however it is found in localities in the
southern part of sections 4, 4B, and 1, in all of 2, and in parts of 3.
The plant grows from a heavy underground root. The woody stems
rise to a height of about three feet. The leaves are gray green and
succulent. Each stem puts up about the middle of summer a single
stalk which develops into stiff hard sunﬂower-like blooms about two
inches in diameter. The strap petals are yellow, the centers brown.
This plant should be used abundantly throughout the Gulf Coast and
wherever moist, saline soils exist, as a hedge or specimen plant, or for
roadside mass work.

Brickellia dentata (DC.) Sch.-Bip. A species very much resembling
Eupatorium. Found in southern parts of sections 4A, 4, 4B, and eastern
parts of 3 and 5. The plant is a perennial shrub and bears at times
during the summer numerous ﬂowers white to light yellow which
resemble those of Eupatorium. The plant is admirably adapted for
roadside beautiﬁcation throughout the ﬂat lands of the Gulf Coast and
the Rio Grande plains. It has in so-me places been utilized for yard
and cemetery work. It is easily transplanted from the wild. This
genus contains nine other species which are widely distributed through-

out Texas, some of them in the western part bearing clusters of ﬂowers

one inch in diameter. As a genus the plant is perennial, does not
become a weed, and can withstand rough treatment. It should be
utilized for roadside Work and in parks especially where choice clusters
of plants are needed.

Oacalm tuberosa Nutt. Colt’s Foot. Indian Plantain. A most peculiar and
little known plant. It consists of numerous tuber like roots from which
arise quite thick rosettes of ovate leaves on stems about three inches
long. The leaf is supposed to represent the hoof mark of a colt, hence
the name. In midsummer this plant puts up a smooth stalk to the
height of six to seven feet and bears at the top peculiar yellowish green
composite ﬂowers which are afterwards followed by seeds that have long
white feathery tassels. Groups of this plant at intervals along road-
sides and on the points of hills in parks are very spectacular. This
species has been put into use as specimen plants in yards in a great
number of towns adjoining the lower Brazos Valley, where they attract
much attention. The plant can be grown from seed or dug from the
wild.

Oalyptrocarpus vialis Less. Prostrate sunﬂower. This plant is given in
this list because it is so widespread as a weed in lawns, and few people

_have any idea as to a name for it. It does, however, have considerable

value as an ornamental in park work, especially in lowland and water
gardens. In the zone where it is hard to grow anything, the ground will

144 BULLETIN NO. 551, TEXAS AGRICULTURAL EXPERIMENT STATION

be covered by this plant which bears yellow composite ﬂowers through-
out the year. All that is necessary is to bring a few of the plants and
place them in the mud. In large towns where small amounts of ground
can be utilized for ornamentals this tiny plant can be given a start
and it will reward the gardener by covering up any kind of a pile of
refuse. This is perhaps the most widespread weed in towns in the
state of Texas.

Oentaurea americana (Don) Nutt. Sultana Star Thistle. A most beautiful
plant growing abundantly along roadsides and in unoccupied lands
throughout the southern part of sections 4A, 4, 4B, 1, 2, 3, 5, and 6.
The plant is very well known by its huge cluster of pale pink ﬂowers
which give the name of Powder Puff to this handsome plant. It is
commercial and is pictured in almost every seed catalogue.

Oentaurea melitensis L. Rayless winged Century. Found in southern
sections of 4A, 4, 4B, 1, and 2 and in the northern part of 3 and 5.
This is a weed of the ﬁrst class, given here to call attention to those
who are interested in growing roadside plants to the rapid distribution
of this one by means of trucks. While the truck is one of the greatest
distributors of beautiful wayside ﬂowers it also carries weeds. This
plant has in the past three years invaded numerous counties where it
never was seen before. It is commonly found along the edge of the
gravel on a paved road. It grows to the height of less than one foot.
The plant is covered with a gray wool and the stems bear many wing-
like fringes. The leaves are lanceolate. Through the summer and fall,-
it bears numerous ﬂowers or heads which during the middle of the
day have a number of tiny yellow ﬂowers protruding from the top. The
bracts are extremely hard and sharp, making the entire plant a nuisance
as soon as it is dry. Wherever this plant is found growing, it should
be immediately out and burned. Its place should be given over to
more desirable species.

Chrysanthemum Leucanthemum L. Ox-eye Daisy. This plant is an escape
in Texas. It is found throughout sections 4A, 4, 4B, and 1. It is a
most beautiful vJhite-ﬂowered daisy and where it is grown under control
is a very beautiful ornamental; however in certain sections the plant
becomes a nuisance. Throughout the timothy and clover ﬁelds of the
Mississippi Valley this plant is called white weed. For many sections
this white ﬂowered daisy which occurs throughout the year is valuable
as a roadside beautiﬁer as it will grow anywhere it is planted.

Ohrysopsis pilosa Nutt. Golden‘ Aster. A gray green perennial shrub
growing in huge clusters about eight inches high from perennial roots.
It is found in sections 7A, 4A, 4, 4B, 1, 2, 3, and 5. Throughout
spring and summer the tops of these dense clusters of branches are
covered by golden yellow aster like ﬂowers about one-half inch in

diameter. This plant will grow anywhere and under the most adverse A

conditions. In many places the walls of rock cuts are a mass of gold
throughout the summer because of these plants which grow at right

VALUABLE PLANTS NATIVE TO TEXAS 14S

angles to the perpendicular wall of the cut. They will grow in any
kind of soil and can endure much traﬂic, being found along almost
any country road. This plant makes a beautiful border and as a
hardy perennial plant for the control of erosion, it should be of con-
siderable value. There are eight other species of this genus which are
more or less known in Texas. They are very similar and are supposed
by most people to be the same thing. All of them are Worthy of a
place in cultivation. Those interested in growing wild plants should
collect a number of these clusters of Chrysopsis in the fall of the year
and plant them as a border to a ﬂower bed. The plant will bloom the
next year, rewarding the grower with a wealth of gold ﬂowers for a

period of at least one month.

Ohrysothamnus pulchellus (A. Gray) Greene. Rayless Goldenrod. Also
called Rabbit Brush. A perennial shrub found only in section 7. [t
bears numerous linear leaves and throughout the summer produces
large clusters of long composite ﬂowers which resemble tassels of pale
yellow hair in holders of yellow wax. This plant in full boom is one
of the most beautiful of the composites. The plant itself is highly
poisonous to livestock, but under cultivation along roadsides it is one
of the most beautiful of the native Texas composites. Someone should
cultivate this plant and make it available for landscape gardeners.
There are three other species occurring in sections 7‘ and 6. The four
species are so nearly alike that it is hard to distinguish between them.

Oichortum mtg/bus L. Chicory, Blue Sailors. This plant was introduced
to use as a coffee substitute and is one of the most beautiful of the
composites. It grows as a prostrate annual and produces through the
summer blue ﬂowers almost one inch in diameter. The ﬂower is
composed entirely of bright blue linear strap petals, and a cluster of
this plant in full bloom attracts the attention of anyone. When grown
as a specimen in a yard or roadside park, or for general roadside work, this
will attract abundant attention. Commercial.

Cirsium austrinum (Small) E. D. Schulz. Red Thistle. This is one of
roadside thistles of most of sections 7A, 4A, 4, 4B, 1, 3, and 5, where
throughout early summer it covers acres of land with its dull red ﬂowers.
The plant has little to recommend it except its beauty and because of
its thorns should only be used occasionally as an ornamental. A single
specimen in a yard or park where it is trimmed or cultivated is a very
beautiful thing. In mass work in roadside beautiﬁcation, this plant is
admirable.

Oirsium horridulum Michx. Yellow Thistle. One of the most spectacular
plants in Texas. It belongs in sandy loose soils where moisture and some
shade exist. The young plant appears during the fall rains where it is

"protected, and if the rains persist the plant develops an enormous rosette.

Early the next summer it puts up a heavy seed stalk to the height of
about three feet and generally bears but one enormous head of thistle
ﬂowers. Some of these heads are four inches in diameter. The color

146 BULLETIN NO. S51, TEXAS AGRICULTURAL EXPERIMENT STATION

ranges from red in sections 4 through pink to white and to yellow in the
eastern part of section 1. In case dry weather occurs during the ﬁrst
winter the rosette will often go through an entire year without bloom-
ing and, during drought periods, several years. This leads to the ﬁnding
of rosettes which are three feet in diameter and contain dozens of
leaves. These huge rosettes are very beautiful and in certain towns
ﬂorists make a business of digging them in early spring and transplanting
them to the yards of their clients. This huge rosette topped by a four-
inch ﬂower is a plant that is worth going miles to see. Wherever loose
sand and moisture occur, this plant can be grown. The seed can be
removed from the ripened seed pods which are found abundantly in the
sandy parts of sections 4, 4B, 1, and 2. There are eleven other species
of thistle in the state, most of which very much resemble Cirsium austri-
num. In sections where plantings are to be made it is best to use the
plant at hand rather than introduce it from elsewhere.

Ooreopsis cardammaefolia (DC.) T. and G. Cress leaf Coreopsis. Found
throughout sections 4A, 4, 4B, 1, 2, 3, and 5. This coreopsis so much
resembles the cultivated species that it is not necessary to describe it.
All of the species of this genus bear ﬂowers which are very similar.
They vary only in the diameter of the ﬂower, the shape of the leaf, and
numbers in which they are found. Wherever Coreopsis occurs, it should
be brought into cultivation.

Ooreopsis nuescensis Heller. Found in sections 1, 2, and 3. This is the
most beautiful of all of the native Coreopsis. It has a bright yellow
ﬂower nearly two inches in diameter. About half way from the edge
of the ﬂower to its center is an irregular line of purple. This plant
grows in sandy sections and blooms in early spring. It is known to
the school child as sand dollars. The plant was ﬁrst described from speci-
mens collected in the Nueces River Valley near Corpus Christi.

Cosmos parviﬂorus (Jacq.) H. B. K. Small Pink Flowered Cosmos.
Found in sections 7 and 6. This plant should not only be brought into
cultivation in its home area but should be made available, as farther east
this plant will grow taller and become a standard ornamental. A variety
of this species is tall growing and should be tried out for its decorative
purposes.

Dyssodia tenuiloba DC. Robinson. Tiny Tim. A very small shrub-like
perennial herb growing in sections 4A, 4, 4B, and 3. This plant is almost
heath-like and after rains bears an abundance of straight stalks about
two inches long, topped by bright yellow daisy-like ﬂowers almost one-
half of an inch in diameter. In good soils a single plant will produce
a compact mass eight to ten inches in diameter and under optimum condi-
tions will bear at one time two to three hundred ﬂowers. The plant grows
under the most strenuous conditions. It blooms every month in the year
and should be utilized very extensively for rock gardens, border plants,
or even pot plants for the house. A single plant of this species grew

VALUABLE PLANTS NATIVE TO TEXAS 147

as a house plant for three years in Texas and when sent to New York
City it lived throughout the ﬁrst year but died the second because of
extreme cold. This plant is recommended to everyone.

This genus contains fourteen species all of which are very similar,
varying only in the size of the ﬂowers and leaves, the manner of growth,
and forms of the leaves being similar. Wherever one desires a member
of this group for cultivation, he should choose the species at hand.

Echinacea angustifolia DC. Narrow leaf Cone Flower. A ta-ll showy
perennial found in sections 7, 7A, 4A, 4, 4B, and 2. The plant consists
of a perennial root stalk which through the fall and winter produces a
rosette of lanceolate, very rough leaves about six inches in length. In
spring from this rosette arise tall stems to a height of two to three feet
bearing at the top the familiar composite head; however the ray ﬂowers
are very pale pink and at least two inches long. The center is almost
a bur, the tube ﬂowers are so ﬁrm. This cluster is about two inches
in diameter and is pale purple. This plant has been in cultivation in
many places for years. Commercial.

Echinacea pallida Nutt. Pale Purple Cone Flower found in sections 4,
4B, and 1. A plant very similar to the above species; however the plant
is taller and the petals not so large. This plant is found wherever soft
soils exist. Like the other species it has been in cultivation until it can
be purchased from dealers.

Eclipta alba (L.) Hassk. A very peculiar composite which occurs in moist
places or in standing water. Where it is protected it becomes a very
ornamental plant, reaching a height of two to three feet. It is covered
with green composite ﬂowers with small white petals. This plant should
be a part of every water planting as it occupies the zone which is generally
bare in water gardens, just between the edge of the water and the begin-
ning of the fairly dry soils.

Elephantopus carolinianus Willd. Carolina Elephant Foot. Found in
moist woods and along water courses in sections 4A, 4, 4B, 1, and 2. The
plant consists of a rosette of spatulate leaves, seven to eight inches long
and four inches wide. In summer it bears a much-branched stalk with
a ﬂower cluster borne on a peduncle in the axil of each leaf. It has no
ray ﬂowers and the tube ﬂowers are purple. The name of Elephant’s
Foot comes from the bracts which surround the ﬂower cluster. This is
a very desirable plant anywhere a water planting is maintained and is
equally as useful in shady localities in parks and roadsides.

Elephantopus tomentosus L. Woolly Elephant’s Foot. Plant closely
resembles the above but is covered with wool. Found only in section
6 but will grow anywhere that it is introduced into a water garden.

Engelmannia pinnatiﬁda T. and G. Engelmann’s Daisy. A very common
plant in sections 7, 7A, 4A, 4, 4B, 3, and 5. This plant, which is named

_ in honor of one of the early botanists of Texas, is one of the most widely

distributed and best known of Texas composites. It is excellent as a

148 BULLETIN NO. 551, TEXAS AGRICULTURAL EXPERIMENT STATION

roadside plant, bearing for more than two months numerous yellow daisy-
like ﬂowers with seven or eight strap petals. This daisy can be told
from all others by the number of strap petals and the fact that the leaves
are pinnately divided. It can be grown from seed or by transplanting.
A bed of this composite should exist in every park in the state of Texas in
honor of the man who helped make Texas botany.

Erigeron philarlelphtcqts L. Philadelphia Fleabane, Wood Daisy. One of
the ﬁrst daisy composites to bloom in spring. Found in deep woods and
along water courses. It has a place in every water planting and is easily
raised in yards where water is available. It is a perennial and will maintain
itself throughout many years. This plant should be brought in from the
wild and made a part of small water gardens. There are ten other species
of this genus all of which are quite similar. These wood daises are
recommended for those who wish to grow composites that will bloom in
early spring. The best known and most common is Erigeron canadensis L.,
which is one of the most common and unsightly weeds of Texas. It
goes under the various names of Mare’s Tail and Pig Weed. The plant
consists of a straight stalk bearing linear green leaves and topped by
an unsightly cluster of small yellowish green ﬂowers.

Eupatorium coelestinttm L. Blue Boneset. An annual from a perennial
root stalk growing in moist places and is almost vine-like. The leaves
are small, almost triangular, and bear clusters of pale blue tube ﬂowers
throughout the summer. This plant should be found, the seed collected
and planted in damp locations in parks or along roadsides; and, if one
has room in moist locations in yards, the plant will pay for the work
put upon it.

Eupatorium compositifolium Walt. Yankee Weed. A valuable and
peculiar perennial found in sections 4A, 4, 4B, 1, 2, and parts of 3. The
plant grows only in soft sandy soils where from early spring until Septem-
ber it appears as a cluster of thick green ﬁnely divided leaves. In Septem-
ber it sends up stalks well covered with ﬁnely divided leaves which
reach a length of eight to ten inches, the stalks-rising to a height of
four to ﬁve feet and in late fall producing a huge tassel of very small
Eupatorium greenish white ﬂowers. This plant is one of the Eupatoriums
whose ﬂowers have a pleasing perfume. Clusters of these plants will
grow in any soft soils and will repay the trouble of the gardener in
securing the root cluster. The seeds of this plant should not be dis-
turbed, and new plants should be brought into existence by dividing the
old plants. This is one plant that is able to grow and tie together blow-
ing sand dunes, and on places where cattle or early cultivation has
broken the ground cover, it offers quick relief from the blowing sands.

Eupatorium. havaneazse H. B. K. A perennial shrub found in sections 4A,
4, and 2. It will grow anywhere it is planted and given protection, shade,
and some moisture. The natural home of the shrub is in deep woods
in the hills of the Edwards Escarpment. In June and again in late fall,

VALUABLE PLANTS NATIVE TO TEXAS 149
the plant is covered with clusters of white Eupatorium ﬂowers. In places
where it has been brought into cultivation, this species is considered
as being among the most beautiful and graceful of the perennial orna-

mentals.

Eupatorium incarnatum Walt. Pink Thoroughwort. Found in sections
4A, 4, 4B, 2, 3, and 5. A profusely growing member of the species which
is vine-like. It grows in great clusters in brush lands. In late October
it becomes a huge mass of small white ﬂowers which when mature turn
red, giving the name to the plant. This is a very desirable specimen for
parks and roads. The plant is inconspicuous during the spring and sum-
mer but makes known its presence when it puts up its numerous long
slender branches ornamenting the shrubs over which it sprawls. It can
be grown from root divisions or seed.

Eupatorium perfoliatum L. Boneset. The boneset of medicine. The
plant consists of a perennial root stalk which puts up in the early
summer a number of straight stems that reach the height of three to
four feet, the lower branches being quite large, six to seven inches long
and three inches wide, and covered with wool. These have very short
stems. As the leaves approach the upper part of the stalk the stems dis-
appear, and the leaves become joined so that the stem goes through the
center of the upper set of the leaves. It bears a cluster of typical white
Eupatorium ﬂowers. This plant is widely known throughout the United
States as a medicinal plant. A concoction of the leaves is a standard
medicine for any form of malaria. There is a number of other species
of this interesting genus, all of which are worthy of cultivation. They
are similar in their growth habits and are similarly brought into culti-
vation. These plants should become the favorite with those who have in
charge the decoration of roadsides and large parks.

Evaaa prolifera Nutt. Cud Weed.
reaching a height of only four or ﬁve inches. It bears numerous small
composite ﬂowers in clusters of white wool at the ends of the branches.

' This plant is very desirable as a border plant in yards or in park work.

It is especially valuable as it will grow on almost any kind of soil and
does most o! its growing early in the spring where any plant which will
grow in dense masses occurs, thus protecting the ground from blowing
and washing. It is very common in all parts of sections 7, 7A, 4A, 4,
4B, and 5. This genus has three other species which are very similar
and can be used in a like manner. For one wishing a low-growing plant
tor a border either in a yard or in a window box, this genus should be
looked for.

Flaveria trmervia (Spreng.) C. Mohr. A water-loving plant growing in
sections 7, 7A, 5, and 6. It is a composite that grows in standing water
or marshy lands. It is somewhat red in color, grows from a central
stem, and bears numerous lanceolate leaves. In the summer and fall
it is topped by clusters of yellow three-cornered pods which look as if
they were made from wax. Within these are borne the small composite

A very peculiar gray green plant?

150 BULLETIN NO. 551, TEXAS AGRICULTURAL EXPERIMENT STATION

ﬂowers. This is one of the peculiar and interesting plants which should
be introduced into every water garden. They do not spread rapidly
but are interesting and will attract attention wherever found. Where
water occurs along roadsides, a good growth is assured for the next
year by the scattering of this seed.

Florestina tripteris DC. A composite very common in sections 3 and 5.
It is biennial growing the ﬁrst year as a rosette and the second year setting
up a stalk to the height of three to four feet. The leaves are three-nerved
and sometimes three-lobed. The upper part of the plant bears numerous
small white clusters of tube ﬂowers. It is valuable in that it will grow
under the trying conditions of heat and drought and has the ability to
tie together blowing sands. It should be widely used for roadside plant-
ings in the districts where it is native, and should be tried wherever
sandy soils occur.

Franseria confertiﬂora (DC.) Rydb. This plant is a pernicious weed.
It grows by underground root stalks making it next to impossible to
eradicate. It is probably the most persistent weed in central Texas,
where it is known as Small Ragweed. It can be told from the true
ragweed (Ambrosia sps.) by the fact that its seed pods are burs. In
addition to its competition with agriculture, it is also one of the most
virulent of hay fever plants. Attention is called to it here because of
the misunderstanding through central Texas that this is an Ambrosia.
There are four other species of Franseria in Texas.

Gaillardia amblyodon A. Gray. Red Gaillardia. A Gaillardia of sections
4A, 4, 3, and 5. The ﬂower is deep red with a very narrow line of pale
red or yellow around the edge of the disc. The plant grows to a height
of six or eight inches and is very distinct from Gailbardta pulchella. of which
it is supposed by many to be a variety. Where a park or yard gardener
desires a very beautiful bed of spring ﬂowers, one in which all of the
Gaillardias native to the state exist cannot be excelled. Amblyodon is one
of the earliest to bloom, is one of the most deeply colored, and must be
grown from seed.

Gaillardia lanceolata Michx. Yellow-ﬂowered Gaillardia found in the same
sections with the above; however it has lanceolate leaves and bears pale
yellow ﬂowers. It is mistaken by many as a faded specimen of pulchella.
Under cultivation it shows‘ improvement and brighter colors in the
ﬂowers.

Gaiillardia suavis (Gray and Engelm.) Britt. and Rusby. A peculiar
Gaillardia found in all parts of the state with the exception of piney
woods and Gulf Coast. It grows throughout the fall and winter as a
rosette of lanceolate leaves. In early spring it sends up bare stems
to a height of eight to twenty-four inches. The ﬂowers are borne in
heads of deep red which possess a pleasing perfume. In many sections
the bloom consists of red tubular ﬂowers; however on optimum years,
or in certain parts of the state, red ray ﬂowers encircle the red center.
Like the rest this is a desirable plant and is easily procured by obtaining
the seed.

VALUABLE PLANTS NATIVE TO TEXAS 151

Gaillardia pulchella Foug. Indian Blanket, Fire Wheel. The most showy
of the.Gaillardias. Found in sections 7, 7A, 4A, 4, 4B, 2, 3, and 5. It
will probably grow anywhere. This Gaillardia is valuable on highways
because of the color of the ﬂowers and growth habits. In many places
it is a rank-growingtwayside weed having a ﬂower two inches in diameter.
In other locations it is a weak-growing plant, producing ﬂowers not
over one-half of an inch in diameter. Along ‘the Gulf Coast it grows
almost in salt water and has a prostrate stem and somewhat succulent
leaves, but the characteristics of the plant are so distinct that it should
not be confused as it has been. There are nine other species of this genus
known to occur in Texas and probably two more. This plant is worthy
of cultivation and anyone wishing to use native plants should collect
seed heads as soon as they are ripe and in the fall of the year plant this
seed where the plants should grow the next spring.

Grindelia grandiﬂora Hook. Giant Tar Weed. Found in sections 3 and
5 and will grow anywhere planted. This is a very beautiful and showy
plant consisting of a single upright stalk sometimes three-fourths of
an inch in diameter reaching a height of four feet. It bears numerous
dark green, almost coriaceous leaves which bear large spine-like teeth.
The entire plant has more or less of a gummy substance on it. The
ﬂowers are about two inches in diameter bearing golden yellow petals
and surrounded by many dark green bracts. This plant is a very desir-
able species to propagate along roadsides and in vacant places in parks.
It will grow in any kind of soil but prefers soft soils with some shade;
however it will do well if the seedlings are given a little protection from
the sun.

Gutierrezia dracunculoides (DC.) Blake. The Small Headed Broom
Weed. Found in sections 7, 7A, 4A, 4, 4B, and 5. This is one of the
most common of the broom-weeds, which in late summer line the road-
sides with smooth blankets of green that later produce variously shaded
yellow ﬂowers. This species produces many small heads of ﬂowers in

_ place of a single common ﬂower at the tip of each stem. It is an annual

or biennial and in places Where it does not occur without any aid, this
plant should be brought in. It has many uses besides that of covering
barren soil or hiding rock. The plant is beautiful throughout the
summer and fall and adds much to the stopping of wind erosion. It is
easily obtained by cutting the plants which have the ripened heads and
threshing. There are eight other species of this plant in Texas, all of
which are well worthy of places where roadside and parks are to be
ornamented.

Helenium mzlcrocephalum DC. Small Flowered Sneeze Weed. Composite
growing to a height of eighteen to twenty inches and found in moist
localities in sections 4A, 4, 4B, 2, and 5. The stems of the plant are
adorned by numerous wings of leaf-like materials. The leaves are lanceo-
late and produced in small numbers. The ﬂowers have small yellow
centers and have short yellow ray ﬂowers which sometimes are almost
red. Were it not for the fact that this plant is poisonous to livestock,

1sz BULLETIN NO. 551, TEXAS AGRICULTURAL EXPERIMENT STATION

it would receive wide plantings along roadsides and in parks; however

where cattle are not supposed to range, this plant is suﬂiciently beautiful
to be used in water plantings and to cover marshy spots. This genus
has twelve other species the most of which are interesting and are worthy
of being brought into cultivation. They are all swamp-loving plants
blooming late in the fall, and are of suﬂicient character to attract atten-

tion.

Helianthus angustifolius L. Swamp Sunﬂower. A very beautiful and

little known sunﬂower. It grows only in swampy or damp locations in

sections 1 and 2 but will grow with protection in sections 4A, 4, 4B,
3, and 5. The plant arises from a perennial root stalk, generally growing
in water. It puts up a smooth stem to the height of six to ten feet. It
bears numerous lanceolate leaves ﬁve to six inches long and a large
number of attractive yellow ﬂowers about two inches in diameter. This
plant should be made a part of every water planting where the species
is available.

Helianthus argophyllus T. and G. Silverleaf Sunﬂower. Native in
sections 4A, 4, 4B, and 3 but will grow anywhere in the state. The plant
prefers soft soils with some moisture but will grow in any locality where
corn grows. The plant is a tall-growing ﬂower reaching a height of eight
to ten feet. The entire plant is covered with silver gray wool. The
leaves are ovate and seven to eight inches in length. Throughout the
summer and fall it bears numerous sunﬂowers about two inches in
diameter. A row of these or a specimen plant is very imposing. The
plant is an annual but the seed should be planted in February. Com-
mercial.

Helianthus debilis Nutt., var. cucumerifolius (T. and G.) A. Gray. Sand
sunﬂower. The name of this sunﬂower is given as it occurs in most of
the references to native plants of Texas. In order that it may be easily
recognized, this plant is annual or biennial, growing to the height of
three to four feet, having slender stems and bearing deep yellow sun-
ﬂowers about two inches in diameter at the ends of the long bare stems.
Just how this plant received its speciﬂc name is unknown as the leaves
have no resemblance to any cucurbit. Wherever soft and sandy soils
exist this species of sunﬂowers is a welcome addition to any roadside or
park planting. As the center of a large ﬂower bed in a yard there is
no better species, as with a little cultivation it will bloom throughout the
summer and will never become unsightly, providing the ﬂowers are
removed when the seed commences to ripen. The seed of this plant can
be procured anywhere throughout the sandy region of Texas.

HGHGTLUZTLS Maximiliam’ Schrad. Maximilian Sunﬂower. A very well-
known and beautiful sunﬂower found native in Texas in sections 7A, 4A,
4, 4B, 2, 3, 5, and 6. The plant is a perennial and puts up many annual
stalks from the perennial root. These stalks in late summer bear
numerous light yellow sunﬂowers about two inches in diameter from
the axils of the leaves and on short peduncles in the axils of the stems.
The plant has been in cultivation for many years. Commercial.

VALUABLE PLANTS NATIVE TO TEXAS 1S3

Helianthus zietiolaris Nutt. Prairie Sunﬂower. A plant resembling the
common sunﬂower Helianthus annuus L. except that the plant has a more
vigorous appearance but is smaller in growth, deep green in color, and
without the large amount of wool. It is found in sections 7, 7A, 4A,
and 6. Throughout sections 7 and 7A this plant should be largely used
as backgrounds around ﬂower beds, as windbreaks around poultry yards,
and as a roadside ornamental. It does not grow suﬂiciently tall to obstruct
the view but does cover the roadside with gold and black, giving a very
pleasing boundary to the highways which transverse the low and high
plains.

Helianthus tuberosus L. Jerusalem Artichoke. A species of sunﬂower
having a heavy underground root system which produces in midsummer
large numbers of white tubers that are shortened stolens. These con-
tain a considerable amount of sugar. The plant has been exploited very
largely as a source of pig feed. It is supposed to be native of the prairie
country of the central Mississippi Valley, indicating that the plants of
north central Texas are either importations, or represent the southwest
border of this species. Because of the luxuriant growth, large numbers
of sightly stems and ﬂowers, this plant is recommended for roadside and
park work wherever a plant is needed that can endure much neglect and
extremes of the weather. Commercial.

 Heterotheca sub-aawllaris (Lam.) Britt. and Rusby. Camphor Weed. This
A plant is mentioned as it is the most widespread and proliﬁc ﬂowering
‘- plant in the state which blooms during the summer and fall. The plant
i‘ consists of a much branched stem which reaches the height of two to
‘litthree feet. It has lanceolate leaves covered with wool. From July
"until November thisplant is covered with hundreds of small yellow sun-
ﬂower-like heads. They are about three-fourths of an inch in diameter.
lThe entire plant has the odor of camphor. Were it not for the fact that
‘this plant is so abundant, it would be highly desirable as an ornamental.
ecause of its wonderful ability to grow wherever there is a place that
 hard to obtain a vegetable cover, this plant is highly recommended.
he seed can be obtained on any roadside during the latter part of
mmer.

  
 
    
 
    
 
  
  
 
  
   
   
   
  
  

 Hymenoclea monogyra T. and G. Burrow Brush. A near relative of rag
eeds found in sections 3, 5, and 6. The plant is perennial. The stalks
jhoveground are weak and resemble the stems of the annual ragweeds.
(the plant bears very numerous ﬁnely divided linear leaves throughout the
‘ring and summer. In late summer the plant is covered with masses
 small greenish white ﬂowers which are more showy after the ﬂowers
have completed their blooming and have fallen from the surrounding
i= acts. This plant is decidedly ornamental. If properly cared for, it
jsembles a thick growing cedar when not in bloom. When in bloom it
’_ a plant that is hard to describe but very beautiful. It can be grown

ver. It can be dug in the wild or the seed can be procured in early
Ltumn and will grow anywhere.

154 BULLETIN NO. 551, TEXAS AGRICULTURAL EXPERIMENT STATION

Hymenopappus artemi-siaefolius DC. Wild cauliﬂower. A quite dis-
tinguished looking winter annual. Throughout the late winter and
spring, the plant exists as a large rosette of ﬁnely divided lanceolate
leaves. In April and May it puts up a stalk to the height of two to
ﬁve feet. The stalk is covered with small ﬁnely divided leaves and white
wool. The ﬂower clusters are protected by silver white bracts which
make the plant very showy. This species is found in sections 7, 7A, 4A,
4, 4B, 1, and 2. This plant isvaluable in park work as it is one species
which will grow on rough and unoccupied soils preparing the soils for
more ornamental species. The seed can be collected on any roadside.

Hymenopappus corymbosus T. and G. Found in sections 4A, 4, 4B, 2, 3,
and 6. A small ﬂowered plant resembling the above. Attention is called
to this plant because it is often confused with Parthenium. This species
has never been proved to be a cause of hay fever.

Hymenopappus scabiosaeus L’Her. The common Hymenopappus of
sections 4A, 4, 4B, 1, 2, 3, and 5, where it is a most common roadside
and pasture plant. Like others of this species, were it not so common,
it would be largely cultivated. It should be used wherever one desires
a plant to make a background for low growing species which bloom
in early spring, as the plants of this species reach their climax by the
middle of May, and should be removed.

Kuhnta eupatorioides L. False Boneset. An annual plant coming from a
heavy perennial root cluster. Found in sections 7, 7A, 4A, 4, 4B, 2, 3,
and 5. It prefers soft soils and some shade. The stems are inclined
towards red, the leaves very thick and linear. Throughout the summer
it bears numerous pale yellow clusters of tubular composite ﬂowers.
These ﬂowers are followed by masses of white feathery tails of seed. It
is also called false ironweed. Where one is making a collection of showy
perennial plants which can be grown with little attention, Kuhnia in
any of its species makes a ﬁne plant. Specimen plants cannot be
equalled. It does not multiply rapidly and should be obtained by root
divisions.

Kuhnia glutinosa Ell. Prairie False Boneset. A slender-growing species
of Kuhnia very similar to the above but found on the prairie sections of
7, 7A, 4A, and 4B. This plant being adapted to the open should be
used throughout sections 7 and 7A as a- yard ornamental. Where wind
erosion is detrimental to gardens, a hedge around the garden will stop
blowing sand.

Lactuca ﬁoridana (L.) Gaertn. Tall Wood Lettuce. An annual plant
found in deep woods along water courses. Plant grows to the height
of three to eight feet. In winter it appears as a rosette having lanceolate
leaves, deeply incised, up to eight inches in length. In early summer it
puts up a smooth, hollow ﬂowering stalk which is slightly branched above
and bears sessile, linear, incised leaves. The ﬂowers, which are borne
in some numbers, are about one-half inch in diameter and bright blue.
The ﬂowers are followed by balls of white silky umbrellas that carry

VALUABLE PLANTS NATIVE TO TEXAS 155

the seed. It is interesting to know that this plant is one which furnishes
the linings for nests of many species of small birds and mice. Because
of its large size and rapid growth this plant should be used around all
water gardens as a specimen plant. For a peculiar ornamental a single
plant of this lettuce grown on a lawn will attract considerable attention
and as it can be removed at the beginning of summer and replaced by
another plant it is valuable as an early lawn ornamental.

Lepachys columnaris (Sims) T. and G. Long Headed Cone Flower.
Found in every part of the state. The best known of the cone ﬂowers.
It is also called Nigger Toe and Mexican Hat. The column bearing the
tube ﬂowers is sometimes two inches in length. The ray ﬂowers are
bright yellow. The plant is to be found along every roadside in the
state. It also occupies pasture lands and is accused of being poisonous
to cattle. It is to be said that cattle will not eat this plant if any other
food is available. To propagate it one should get root divisions for
quick results, or for many plants, sow the seeds. It requires two years
from seed to ﬂowers. It will grow in any kind of soil and anywhere.
Commercial.

Lepachys columnaris Pursh. var. pulcherrima (G. Don) T. and G. This
differs from the type in that the ray petals are dark maroon or black.
In many parts of the state the type and variety occur in about equal
numbers; however in sections 7, 7A, 4A, 4, and 4B the variety is domi-
nant. The variety is probably more showy than the species and should
be grown along with any collection of this genus of plants.

Lepachys peduncularts T. and G. A plant typical of the genus; however
it is annual or biennial, has lanceolate cut leaves, and bears its single
ﬂower clusters on a long bare stem. This plant is marked from the
other members of the genus by having a very long column which is
inclined to be bent or crooked. The tube ﬂowers are greenish and the
ray ﬂowers are golden yellow. A very beautiful and graceful species
which grows best in some shade where soft soils exist. Commercial.

Lepachys peduncularis T. and G., var. picta A. Gray. A plant resembling
the type but growing along the Gulf Coast. The leaves are thickened
and the ﬂowers are much more highly colored than the species growing
in shade. For Gulf Coast plantings or for beds that are in the full sun,
this variety of Lepachys is recommended.

Lepachys Tagetes (James) A. Gray. The Shortrayed Cone Flower. Found
in sections 3, 5, and 6. It grows as a thick cluster of stems which reach
a height of about one foot. The leaves are very abundant, stiff, and
linear. The ﬂowers are born in ﬁat-topped clusters. Differing from the
remainder of the genus the ﬂower heads are about one inch long, caus-
ing the ﬂower clusters to be congested. The ﬂowers are conspicuous
but their maroon color gives the plant the appearance which no other
species has. This plant is beautiful in yards and gardens as a specimen
plant or as a border. As it is perennial, it will give good service. As
a roadside plant in the sandy portions of the Rio Grande plains, this
species will be valuable as it is a native and a sand binder, and is
acclimated to the hot dry summers.

156 BULLETIN NO. 551, TEXAS AGRICULTURAL EXPERIMENT STATION

Liatris acidota Engelm. and Gray. Slender Button Snake Root. A species
of sections 7, 4, and 2. A low-growing plant of this well known group.
It arises from a globular perennial tuber. The stalk is slender and bears
numerous linear leaves. The upper part of the stalk is covered with
clusters of deep red tube ﬂowers. It blooms from the middle of August
to the middle of September; however if the plants are cut off before
they bloom, and rains occur, another stalk will be put up to a height
of about ﬁve inches which will bloom abundantly in late fall, making
this plant a ﬁne one for parks and yards, as the gardener can cut away
the ﬂower stalks of some specimens and then by watering produce a
late fall bloom which will be much admired. It can be raised from seed
or by tubers.

Léatris cymosa (H. Ness) K. Schum. Known from a small locality in
section 4B but probably occurs throughout much of the eastern part of
Texas. This Liatris, differing from other species, does not produce a
single spike of ﬂowers but the plant branches from the base and makes
a ﬁat-topped beautiful green herb about fourteen inches in height which
bears in July and August numerous rose red clusters of tube ﬂowers.
This is one of the most beautiful of the genus and should be made avail-
able to the public by some dealer. The plant is easily grown either from
seed or from the transplanted tubers. This plant is recommended through-
out the whole of Texas as it will grow in shady locations.

Liatris elegans (Walt.) Willd. Handsome Blazing Star. Most spectacular
of the family. It grows to a height of from three to seven feet and
bears large clusters of lavender ﬂowers on the upper third of the stalk.
The outer tube ﬂowers have lobes about one-fourth of an inch long
which are so arranged as to make the ﬂower appear as a swastica. cross.
This plant is widespread throughout Texas and exists in several varieties,
all of which are worthy of cultivation. The plant can be grown from
seed or by transplanting tubers. It is known to occur in sections 1, 2,
3, 4, 5, 6, and 7. Commercial.

Liatris punctata Hook. Dotted Button Snake Root. Probably the best
known button snake root. It is common throughout sections 7, 7A, 4A,
4, 4B, and parts of 3 and 5. It is found in all kinds of soils and occurs
as a cluster of red brown stems heavily covered with linear green leaves.
This cluster of stems has a pleasing appearance throughout the whole
of the summer. In early fall the stems grow to a height of two and
one-half to three feet, and bear numerous clusters of pink to red tubed
ﬂowers. It has been brought into cultivation probably more than any
native perennial ornamental. It should be cultivated everywhere because
of the excellent service it gives. To keep the plants in good shape and
bearing proliﬁc blooms, about every three to ﬁve years the old root
clusters should be removed and young tubers substituted. The young
tubers are easily secured by planting the seed in October in a well-worked
and well-watered seed bed. The next April the tubers will be about
one-half inch in diameter and ready to transplant. Most of them will
bloom that fall. Commercial.

 

 

 

VALUABLE PLANTS NATIVE TO TEXAS 157
Liatris pycnostochya Michx. Hairy Button Snake Root. Very similar
to L. punctata but gray green in color instead of light green. The heads
are very congested with long hair in between the clusters. This plant
should be planted along with Liatris punctata. It is found in similar
locations and a hedge or border of alternating plants of these species
gives a very showy eﬁect. Commercial.

Liiatris squurrosa Willd., var. intermedia (Lindl.) DC. Scaly Blazing
Star. A beautiful species of this popular genus occurring in section
4B but which will grow anywhere in the central part of the state. It
prefers soft soils with some moisture. The spikes are quite tall reach-
ing a height of three to four feet and bearing at intervals along the
upper part peculiar clusters of maroon-colored tube ﬂowers on a pe-
duncle which is heavily coated with bracts. This is a very peculiar and
ornamental species and can be obtained by collecting seed or tubers from
the wild.

Lindheihnera temana Engelm. and Gray. Lindheimer’s Daisy. Yellow
Texas Star. This is a well-known early yellow-ﬂowered composite. It
is known to school children by the name of Elephant’s Foot because‘ of
the ﬁve broad yellow strap petals. This is a perennial or biennial and
blooms throughout a period of one to two months. Because it bears
the name of the most famous botanist of Texas, a bed of this daisy should
be maintained in every park or botanical garden. It can be easily
grown from seed.

Lygotlesntia texana (T. and G.) Greene. Skeleton Weed. A very peculiar
plant found in sections 4A, 4, 4B, 3, and parts of 5. The plant con-
sists of an underground perennial cluster of roots. In early spring it
sends up some rush-like stems to the height of at least ﬁfteen inches.
These bear a few linear leaves. After rains during the summer, each
stalk produces from one to several rose red clusters of all strap ﬂowers
about one and one-half inches in diameter. This is one of the most
spectacular of composite ﬂowers of Texas. It is easily transplanted and
easily raised from seed. While unknown to gardeners this plant has
been transplanted and grown with great success by various farm and
ranch people. Under cultivation where vegetable competition is re-
moved, the plant has a fresh appearance and bears numerous ﬂowers.
It is best obtained by root divisions. This genus has three other species
that are known to central Texas and will grow anywhere planted. One
of them has very small pink ﬂowers, while another has white ﬂowers
which turn pink or red.

Marshallia caespitosa Nutt. A most peculiar and beautiful composite
found in sections 4A, 4, 4B, 2, 5, and parts of 3. It is a perennial, the
annual stalks which grow to a height of about a foot, bearing many
linear leaves at the base. The ﬂower stems are six inches long and bear
clusters of large white to pink tube ﬂowers, giving this plant a very
attractive appearance. The plant has been cultivated in Europe and
seed can be obtained from some dealers. In Texas it is easy to obtain
root divisions or the entire clusters from the wild. This plant is recom-
mended only for yards and for beds in parks.

158 BULLETIN NO. 551, TEXAS AGRICULTURAL EXPERIMENT STATION

Melaanpodium cmereum DC. Rock Daisy. A most widespread low-
growing composite. Found throughout sections 4A, 4, 4B, 3, 5, and
parts of 6. The plant seemingly prefers rough rocky ground and full
sun. The plant appears as a heavy cluster of somewhat crowded stems
about six inches high. This bears throughout the summer a succession
of White daisy-like ﬂowers consisting of a few tube ﬂowers in the center
and four to seven white strap petals. This is easily transplanted from
the wild or grown from seed. It makes a beautiful border plant and is
Well adapted to cover rocky and unsightly hills along roadsides.

Jlliloania scandens (L.) Willd. Climbing Boneset. A vine-like plant found
in sections 7A, 4A, 4, 4B, 1, 2, and parts of 3 and 5. It prefers over-
ﬂow lands and muddy borders of slow-ﬂowing streams and marshes.
In early summer it is a vine-like plant bearing almost triangular leaves
and weak branches which are supported by the surrounding herbage.
By the middle of summer it puts out from the axils of the leaves a
cluster of white to pink tube ﬂowers resembling the blooms of Eupa-
torium, a genus from which this one was separated. So numerous are
these ﬂower clusters that acres of this white plant can often be seen
along the edges of swamps and water courses. It is a ﬁne honey plant.
It is best secured by obtaining the seed and scattering it in November
along the edges of marshes and streams. Where standing water exists
along roadsides, this is one of the plants that should recommend itself,
as this vine will cover large areas with a very attractive plant for
at least nine months of the year. For water gardens a single plant of
this species is desirable, where it can be used as a background or a
shade for more tender plants.

Parthenium Hysterophorus L. Santa Maria. Feverfew. This plant is men-
tioned as it is confused with many other white-ﬂowered composites. It is a
most common roadside weed especially in towns where throughout the spring
and summer its white ﬂower clusters are a prominent object along road-
sides. This plant is one of the hay fever plants of Texas and the plant
itself should be superseded by other and less injurious plants.

Pectis angusttfolia Torr. Lemon Scented Pectis. A very interesting
plant found only in section 6 and the extreme southern part of section
7. It is a low-growing composite reaching a height of three to four
inches and bearing throughout the summer very numerous small sun-
ﬂower-like heads. The entire plant has a strong medicinal odor and
the presence of the plant can be detected long before it can be seen. It
maks a very handsome border plant or when grown in pure stands is
very showy. In numerous places in sections 1 and 10, this plant has been
brought into cultivation by the ranch people with much satisfaction. This
species and several others which are very similar and occur in the similar
localities should be tried out by nurserymen and made available to the
public.

_Perezia nana A. Gray. A plant which when well known will be one of
the most popular of ornamentals. It consists of a number of prostrate
short stems which bear from ﬁve to six coriaceous light green leaves
having large teeth along the edge. These green leaves persist through-

VALUABLE PLANTS NATIVE TO TEXAS l5‘)

out the Winter, making the plant a ﬁne ground cover for any kind of
a situation. In early spring the plants send up a few stalks to the height
of about one inch and bear purple ﬂowers. After the ripening of the
seed, the plant dies down and does not appear until the next year. Under
cultivation the plant will continue to produce leaves throughout the
year. This plant is strongly recommended for bed work in yards, for
a perpetual cover in cemeteries, and for border work in parks. The seed
must be procured from the wild as there is no source of it in commerce.
It is quite common through the drier portions of sections 7, 7A, 4A,
4, 4B, 3, 5, and 6.

Perezia runcinata Lag. A very interesting plant which will become
popular as an ornamental. It grows throughout the year as a rosette
having coriaceous dark green leaves ornamented with lobes and teeth.
At intervals it puts up a stem to the height of a few inches and bears
solitary purple composite ﬂowers. In some locations it is called perennial
thistle although it has no near relationship to the thistle group. It
does not multiply rapidly and should be secured by growing from seed.
As a border plant under cultivation, this species becomes very beautiful
as it puts out numerous leaves which become glossy green and bears
numerous flowers. It has also been tried as a pot plant and will live
inside the house with customary care for long periods of time. It is
found throughout sections 7A, 4A, 4, 4B, 1, 2, 3, and 5.

Perezia Wrightii A. Gray. This perennial, which grows as an upright
plant and reaches a height of two to three feet, bears very numerous
coriaceous leaves about one and one-half inches in diameter and is
adorned with coarse teeth. The two sizes of leaves are very similar. It
bears at times small heads of purple ﬂowers. As a bed plant for parks
and roadsides and as a background for a Water planting, place in which
it delights, this plant is of value. It is found in sections 3, 5, and 6,
generally along water courses or in wet places.

Pinaropappus roseus Less. White Dandelion. A perennial plant found in
sections 4A, 4, 4B, 3, and 5 which consists of a perennial underground
root, and some slender annual stems that are almost without leaves
and that bear throughout the spring and summer large white ﬂowers,
some of them two inches in diameter. In drying, these ﬂowers turn
red. This white dandelion is another plant which should be brought
into cultivation because of the fact that with its lack of leaves, it can
be grown in the same bed with more leafy species and without coming
into competition with them. The white ﬂowers are made more attrac-
tive by a leafy background.

Pluchea camphorata (L.) DC. Salt Marsh Fleabane. A plant very much

' resembling Eupatorium but an inhabitant of the salt marshes along the

 

Gulf Coast. It is peculiar in that it has the odor of camphor. The plant
is a perennial bush and bears small heads which are purple and very
ornamental. The plant should be utilized through the Gulf Coast as
a plant for roadsides and yards. It is best secured by root divisions.

160 BULLETIN NO. 551, TEXAS AGRICULTURAL EXPERIMENT STATION

Pluchea purpurascens (Sw.) DC. Inland Marsh Fleabane. A strong-
growing perennial reaching a height of three to four feet and very much
resembling Eupatorium. Throughout the summer it bears large numbers
of small composite ﬂowers. The bracts which surround these are highly
colored from pink to purple. This plant is common throughout central
Texas where moist conditions occur. When cultivated this species will
respond to such an extent that it grows much larger and produces many
more clusters of ﬂowers. One of the peculiar uses to which farm people
have put this plant is the growing of a clump around leaky hydrants in
the vicinity of artesian wells, where the plant grows to suﬂicient height
to furnish permanent shade for the hydrant. In several places around
storage tanks for irrigation purposes this plant has been used, as here
they protect the earth walls from wave cutting and from erosion by
rain water. The plant is best obtained by root division.

Polypteris callosa (Nutt.) A. Gray. The Rayless Polypteris. Found in
sections 7A, 4A, 4, 4B, 2, 3, and 5. An annual or biennial slender-
stemmed plant with linear gray-green leaves which bear many small
dots. Throughout spring and summer this plant bears numerous red
clusters of tube ﬂowers. Throughout its territory it has the common
name of Red Top. It is supposed to be a hone-y plant. For mass plant-
ing along roadsides and in parks, this is useful.

Polypteris Hookeriana (T. and G.) A. Gray. Biennial growing as a
rosette throughout the ﬁrst summer and winter, and to July of the second
year, when it puts up a tall ﬂowering stem to a height of from two to
three feet. The upper part of the stem and the ﬂowers themselves are
covered with a viscous material. This plant has a rather oﬁensive odor.
The ﬂowers, however, are so beautiful that they warrant its cultivation.
The ﬂowers are numerous and consist of a disc nearly two inches in
diameter of rose red strap petals in the center of numerous rose red
tube ﬂowers. The gorgeous cluster of rose color exists through a period
of nearly a month during the fall. The plant is easily grown by obtain-
ing the seed in the wild and planting in soft soils. It is found in shady
and moist localities in sections 4A, 4, 4B, 2, and parts of 3 and 5.

Polypteris texana (DC.) A. Gray. A plant similar to Polyteris callosa;
however it is dark green in color, grows to a height of three to four feet,
and produces numerous small rose red clusters of tube ﬂowers. It is common
in sections 7A, 4A, 4, 3, and parts of 5. It is recommended for roadside
work, for mass plantings in parks, and for backgrounds in yards. It is
best grown from seed. This genus contains four other species, most of

‘which are very near in form to Polypteris Hookeriana and are splendid

species to grow in yards and parks. All of this genus are fall blooming
species and ca11 be grown readily from seed.

Psilostroyahe gnaphalodes DC. A very beautiful composite occurring in
sections 4B, 1, and 3 and probably will grow anywhere planted. It is
perennial or annual, grows to a height of ﬁfteen inches, consists of
straight stems, and bears gray-green leaves and a ﬂat-topped cluster
of very peculiar yellow composite ﬂowers. These ﬂower heads very often

 

7.’, PKWY ‘

 
 

 

VALUABLE PLANTS NATIVE TO TEXAS 161

hold their shape through long periods of time, resembling the composite
everlastings. This plant is poisonous to livestock, but as in the case of
other plants, livestock will not eat it unless compelled to do so. As a
specimen plant or border there is none of the yellow-ﬂowered composites
that equal this one. It is also recommended for roadside plantings.

Pstlostrophe Tagetinae (Nutt.) Greene. A plant similar to the above
but not widespread. It is found through sections 7, 7A, 5, 6, and prob-
ably in 3. It has the same drawbacks as the other species but is just
as beautiful for cultivation. As it occurs more plentifully it probably
is more easily grown. These species should be grown by nurserymen
and the plants made available to gardeners.

Rudbeclcia amplemicattlis Vahl. Clasping Lea-f Brown-eyed-Susan. The
well known and widely distributed brown-eyed-Susan 0f central Texas.
Needs no introduction and is commercial.

Rudbeckia glabra DC. Found along the Gulf Prairie. It differs from the
ﬁrst species in that it has a smooth surface. The ﬂower is just as orna-
mental and is widely cultivated.

Rudbeckia grandiﬂora C. G. Gmel. A Largeﬁower Coneﬂower. A most
spectacular coneﬁower. It is large and the numerous coneﬂowers are
in various shades of black, red, and yellow. This plant is also in culti-
vation.

Rudbeckia wtaxivn-a Nutt. Great Coneﬂower. A plant native to the upper
Gulf Coast and the moist regions in sections 4A, 4, 4B, and 1. This
giant coneﬁower reaches a height of six to seven feet. Each plant bears
but one large ﬂower which has a diameter of about four inches and a
cone to the length of three to four inches. The plant is a winter annual.
It can be raised by growing the seed in well-worked soil during the
winter time, and planting the seedlings in early spring where they will

receive considerable water. The plant will grow in the full sun. A row
of these plants which bloom in midsummer is extremely showy.
Sclerocarpzts major Small. Found in sections 3, 5, and 6. A winter

annual bearing a number of well-branched stems and green lanceolate
leaves three to four inches long. Throughout the summer and fall, it
bears numerous composite ﬂowers somewhat resembling Coreopsis. The
strap petals are dark yellow about one and one-half inches long. The
center of the ﬂower is dark brown. This genus exhibits a peculiar
structure of ﬂowers in that each of the tube ﬂowers has a separate bract
so that the whole cluster has no binding line of bracts as in Coreopsis.
This is a beautiful plant and should be widely cultivated. It grows
readily from seed.

Sclerocarpos uniserialis (Hook.) Benth. and Hook. A Coreopsis-like
plant found in sections 4A, 4, 3, and 5, having numerous ﬂowers about
one inch in diameter. The plant is peculiar in that it only grows in
the dense shade of trees. Its most common location is under huge

162 BULLETIN NO. 551, TEXAS AGRICULTURAL EXPERIMENT STATION

live oaks where it transfers the bare soil into a bed of yellow and sweet-
scented coreopsis ﬂowers. The plant is very attractive to insects and
butterﬂies. Wherever one has soft soils, some moisture, and much
shade this plant recommends itself. The seed is easily obtained by
threshing the dead plants.

Selloa glutinosa Spreng. A peculiar perennial or annual aboveground
occurring in sections 7, 7A, 4A, 4, 5, and 6. The bush or herb con-
sists of a number of upright stems reaching a height of a few feet, and
the leaves are lanceolate and numerous. It bears small clusters of
yellow composite ﬂowers through the summer and fall. The whole
plant is covered with a glutinous material. As a background or a row
plant for yards and parks, this plant is attractive. Along roadsides it
will grow in places where anything else refuses to live. It isof great
use throughout the western Edwards Plateau where it is native, and
will grow where very little else can live as a cover for rocky hillsides
during the latter part of summer.

Senecio Zongﬂobus Benth. A typical perennial Senecio found in sections
7, 7A, 5, and 6. It consists of a group of hard stems growing to the
height of eighteen inches which are covered throughout the year with
ﬁnely divided leaves. Through the summer no matter how hot or dry,
this plant is adorned with a wealth of light yellow composite ﬂowers. It
has in its favor the fact that it is perennial under the most trying cir-
cumstances, and is native to sections of the state where native orna-
mentals are a rarity. It has against it the fact that this plant is poisonous
to livestock when they are compelled to eat it. For roadside plantings
for parks, cemeteries, or yards this plant makes a ﬁne addition to the
ordinary ornamentals. There are eighteen species of Senecio in the
state of Texas, ranging from very small and annual herbs, to perennial
shrubs. Most of them are of value as ornamentals in some sections and
for deﬁnite purposes. The one thing in their favor is that they are
easily grown, the annuals from seed and the perennials by root cuttings
or from seed. All of them produce an abundance of bright yellow ﬂowers
through a period of time. To those who desire to experiment with native
ornamentals, this genus is recommended as having much favorable
material.

Tetragonotheca tewana (A. Gray) Engelm. and Gray. Perennial Cone-
ﬁower found in sections 4A, 4, 3, and 5. It is partial to sandy soils
and will grow either in the full sun or in deep shade. The plant has very
coarsely divided leaves, and grows to a height of about ten inches where
in spring it gives rise to new stalks which at the height of about two
feet produce several yellow-petaled coneﬁowers. This genus can be
told from all others because the ﬂower bud, which is one-half inch in
diameter, is enclosed in four bracts that have very decided wings along
the sutures. This is also called square-budded coneﬂower. The plant
should be grown in yards with the purple coneﬂower because it is similar
in form and lends itself to formal garden arrangement. The plant is
best secured by growing from seed.

 

VALUABLE PLANTS NATIVE TO TEXAS 163

Native of section 5. A plant having
It is a winter annual, the stems being

Thelesperma. antbiguum A. Gray.
ﬂowers very similar to Coreopsis.

long and delicately ﬂuted, and bearing numerous very ﬁnely divided‘

linear leaves. The strap petals are lobed and generally two-colored. This
plant should be raised in yards or along roadsides throughout its terri-
tory.

Thelesperma Burridgeanum (Regel) Blake. A tall-growing Coreopsis-like
plant having a ﬂower the strap petals of which are about equally yellow
and maroon. This plant is carried in many seed catalogues under the
name 0f Uosmidium Burrtdgeanum. It is very common in sandy soils in
sections 4, 4B, and 3 where it is the most common roadside plant. It
will grow anywhere and should be widely scattered as a roadside plant.

Thelesperma megapotamicum (Spreng.) Kuntze. A showy member of
this species found in sections 7, 7A, 5, and 6. It diﬁers from the others
in that it has no ray ﬂowers; however the peculiar red brown heads of
the tube ﬂowers borne on the long graceful green stems make it orna-
mental as a roadside plant, especially in the sections where it grows.

Thelesperma triﬁdum (Poir.) Britton. The tall Thelesperma. A plant
found very commonly in sandy woody situations through sections 4A, 4,
3, 5, and 6. It grows to a height of from four to seven feet and bears a
few typical composite ﬂowers yellow with black centers. For a showy
plant in a park or yard, this is recommended. It will maintain itself
where shade and moisture exist.

Varilla texcma A. Gray. A very peculiar plant found only in salt ﬂats.
It, however, will grow in many places along the seacoast and in other
localities where peculiar plants are needed. It consists of a perennial
stem four or ﬁve inches high and very thickly covered with linear leaves
which extend like the needles of a spruce branch. From the top of the
cluster during the summer are borne’ small wire-like stems which are
topped by yellow composite ﬂowers about one-half of an inch in diameter.
In salt ﬂats there are often hundreds of acres of this plant growing as a
pure stand. Wherever a saline location exists which is moist, it should
be planted to this ornamental. It can be found along the outcrops of
the Fayette or Jackson formation in South Texas.

Townsendia exscapa (Richards) Porter. Found in sections 7, 7A, 4A,
and 6. A very peculiar, small, spectacular plant, very desirable for a
rock garden. It grows in dry and rocky soils in the full sun and is
really a shrub although it grows to a height of only one inch. The plant
aboveground consists of numerous lanceolate spine-like leaves, the
ﬂowers about one and one-half inches wide, and white to purple. The
umbrellas which follow the ﬂowers carry the seed and are extremely silky
and large, a fact which helps the collector in ﬁnding the seed of this
plant. In its native habitat it is found on rocky ﬂats. Here in the after-
noon one will see a cluster of white wool and under the cluster will be
found the Townsendia plant. As it is quite numerous in its native

164 BULLETIN NO. 551, TEXAS AGRICULTURAL EXPERIMENT STATION

home, to secure a quick stand the plant should be dug in the wild as it
will transplant easily. The seed should be collected and the young plants
grown in a well-worked and protected plat consisting of soils where lime
content is high. As a spectacular plant for a rock garden or to grow
in a pot or windowbox there is no better than this.

Verbesina en-celioides (Cav.) Benth. and Hook. Yellow Top. A tall-
growing annual with blue green foliage. The plant is found throughout
the whole of the state of Texas. In the southern part it grows and
blooms throughout the year, in the northern part only in the summer.
The leaves are quite large and ﬁddle-shaped which gives the name to
the plant. The ﬂowers which are borne in profusion are beautiful daisies
about one and one-half inch in diameter. If this were not common it
would be sown as an ornamental. It has its place for a beautiful cover
crop for newly cleared soils throughout the winter and spring and again
in late fall. The plant will bloom in three weeks from seed if given
sufﬁcient water. It is recommended wherever one needs a beautiful
cover of blue green leaves and yellow ﬂowers at once. The only draw-
back to the plant is the fact that it goes wild and has an odor not agree-
able to some people.

Vcrbesina helianthotdes Michx. Sunﬂower-Crown-Beard. A plant growing
in sections 7, 7A, and 6. It very much resembles a small sunﬂower
having sunﬂower-like leaves 'and a sunﬂower-like head; however, the
ﬂower is brick red in color and grows only to the height of one foot. In
many places it occurs in long stretches by the roadsides and should be
widely planted for the purpose of road beautiﬁcation. As a specimen or
row plant 1n yards, it will do well in any part of the state.

Verbesina texano Buckl. Mesquite-Crown-Beard or Texas Crown-Beard.
A winter annual growing from a rosette of large velvety green leaves
which puts up in summer a ﬂower stalk to the height of three to four
feet and bears in the fall of the year clusters of small white composite
ﬂowers. The stems of this species do not bear the wings of leaf-like
material that are found in Verbesina virgmiana. It is called the mes-
quite-crown-beard as it is found in heavy stands of mesquite timber in
sections 3 and 5. This plant should be widely distributed through those
sections, as it will grow on soils and during years when all other orna-
mentals fail.

Verbesma virginica L. Virginia Crown-Beard. Found in sections 7, 7A,
4A, 4, 1, 2, 3, and 5. It is an annual found in profusion where shade
and moist soils occur. It frequently grows to a height of eight to ten
feet. In some places the heavy timber is crowded with this as an under-
growth. In the fall of the year the ﬂowers make a solid layer of white
throughout these sections. It is a good honey plant. As an ornamental
for a background in a yard or as a mass stand in park work, this plant
is excellent. It is known from the other species of Verbesina by the
fact that the upper stems are covered with wings of leaf-like material.

Vernonia Baldwini Torr., var. interior (Small) Schubert. Small. Common
Ironweed of Texas. Found in sections 7, 7A, 4A, 4, 4B, 1, 2, 3, and 5.
A strong-growing perennial, annual aboveground, growing as a cluster

VALUABLE PLANTS NATIVE TO TEXAS 165

of stems which are furrowed and bear numerous lanceolate leaﬂets from
three to ﬁve inches long. Throughout the summer it bears numerous
clusters of dark red tube ﬂowers. This plant makes a beautiful addition
to a yard as a specimen plant. It can be used to good effect in parks
as hedge plants, and clusters of them along roadsides are very showy.
This plant should be used in the plantings around markers. The plant
should be secured by root divisions.

Vernonia Lmdhetmervl Engelm. and Gray. Lindheimefs Ironweed.
Common to sections 4A, 4, 4B, 2, 3, 5, and 6. A typical Vernonia but
is covered with gray wool, giving the entire plant a peculiar gray color.
It bears small dark red ﬂowers through the latter part of summer. This
plant like the other has a place as a specimen plant in every yard and
should be extensively used in parks and along roadsides. There are
ten other species of Vernonia which are widely scattered throughout
Texas. All of them are worthy of a place in cultivation and all are easily
grown by root divisions.

Xanthisma teocanum DC. Sleepy Daisy. Found in sections 7A, 4A, 4,
4B, 3, and 5. A most interesting ornamental. The plant is an annual
and consists of a straight stalk about ﬁfteen inches high which bears
at its summit through the summer numerous yellow daisy-like ﬂowers.
These are about one inch in diameter. The plant received its name from
the fact that it does not open until about ten o’clock in the morning. The
plant can be easily grown by collecting the seed from the ripened heads
and sowing in November and December in well-prepared soils. The seed-
lings appear as small rosettes having lobed leaves. It is excellent for road-
side planting.

Zewmenia hispida (H. B. K.) A. Gray. A perennial common in sections
7A, 4A, 4, 4B, 3, and 5, and not unknown elsewhere. It is a plant
having rough hairy leaves and growing to the height of about ﬁfteen
inches. Throughout the summer it produces numerous orange-yellow,
daisy-like ﬂowers. As it bears the most consistent orange-colored ﬂowers
among native composites, it is known throughout Texas as Orange Daisy.
This plant has a decided place in park and roadside work, as it will
grow in the most rough and waste lands. It can endure drought and
heat. It will grow equally well in the semi-desert parts of sections 5
and 6 and in the more moist portions of sections 4A, 4, and 3. The
plant is easily transplanted or can be grown from seed. _

Zinnia grandiﬂora Nutt. Prairie Zinnia. A plant very abundant in the
northern parts of sections 7A, 4A, and 4 and will probably grow any-
where planted. It consists of a tuberous root which in early spring
gives rise to a cluster of one to many upright stalks, growing to a height

of ﬁve to six inches. They are supplied with small ovate leavesh

Throughout the summer, these stems are topped by clusters of composite
ﬂowers which are about one inch across. Each ﬂower consists of four
or ﬁve yellow strap petals and four or ﬁve yellow tube ﬂowers. This
plant should be very widely sought out and planted as a garden specimen
plant or a border plant. It is excellent in rock gardens and for mass
planting in parks. In many places it has become the dominant road-
side ornamental, as the plant was present when the road was built.

Abronia

fragrans, 33

Acacia

amentacea, 45
angustissima, 45
Berlandieri, 45
F arnesiana, 46
Greggii, 46
Roemeriana, 46
tortuosa, 46
Wrightii, 47

Acalypha

Lindheimeri, 68
radians, 68

Acer

ﬂoridanum, 74
grandidentatum, 74
rubrum, 75
saccharinum, 74
saccharum, 74
sinuosum, 75

Acerates

auriculata, 100

Achillea

Millefolium, 136

Acleisanthes

longiﬂora, 33
obtusa, 34

Actinea

acaulis, 136
odorata, 136
scaposa, 137
Stemmed, 137
Stemless, 136

Adiantum

Capillus veneris, 4

Adolphia

infesta, 77

Aethyl, 82
Aesculus

discolor, 75
glabra, 7S
pavia, 75

Agarita, 39

Blue, 39

Agave

americana, 16
heterocantha, 16
lechugilla, 16
maculosa, 16
variegata, 16
virginica, 16

Ageratum

corymbosum, 137

Ailanthus

glandulosa, 67

lder, 21

white, 93

Alfalfa, 55
Allium

Coryi, 12
Nuttallii, 12

Allthorn, 64
Alnus

rugosa, 21

Amaranth

coast, 32
wild globe, 32

Amargosa, 67
Amblyolepis

setigera, 137

Amelanchier

canadensis, 43

Amorpha

fruticosa var.
angustifoliaf47
canescens, 47

VALUABLE PLANTS NATIVE TO TEXAS

INDEX

Ampelopsis
seven leaf, 79
Amphicarpa
bracteata. 47
Amsonia
ciliata var.
texana, 99
Tabernaemontana
var. salicifolia, 100
Anaqua, 108
Andropogon
glomeratus, 8
provincialis, 8
scoparius, 8
virginicus, 8
Anemone
decapetala, 36
spring, 36
Anemopsis
californica, 20
Angel
wings, 68
Anisacanthus
Wrightii, 129
Antelope
Horns, 101
Apache
Plume, 43
Aphanostephus
humilis, 137
skirrhobasis, 137
Aplopappus
megacephalus, 138
large ﬂowered, 138
Apple
wild balsam, 134
Apocynum
cannabinum, 100
Aquilegia
canadensis, 36
longissima, 36
phoenicantha, 36
Aralia
spinosa, 90
Arbutus
texana, 93
Arctium
minus, 138
Argemone
alba, 4O
mexicana, 4O
sanguinea, 40
Arisaema
Dracontium, 9
triphyllum, 10
Aristolochia
brevipes, var.
acuminata, 27
hastata, 27
longiﬂora, 28
reticulata, 28
serpentaria, 28
tomentosa, 29
Arrowleaf, 7
Artemisia
dracunculoides, 139
mexicana, 139
Artichoke
Jerusalem, 153
Arundinaria
gigantea, 8
Arundo
Donax, 8
Asclepias
amplexicaulis, 101
incarnata, 101
latifolia, 101
nummularia, 101

Asclepiodora
decumbens, 101
Xlgifidis, 102

s
Green, 97
Narrowleaf Wafer, 65
Prickly, 67
Wafer, 66
Water, 96
White, 96

Asimina
parviﬂora, 38
triloba, 38

Asparagus, 12
oﬂicinalis, 12

Aspen, 20

Asplenium, 4

Aster
Bolton's, 142
Golden, 144
spinosus, 140
tanacetifolius, 140
Tansy, 140
Wrightii, 139

Astragalus
Earlei, 47
mexicanus, 48
mollissimus, 48

Atriplex
acanthocarpa, 31
canescens, 31

Azalea
Hoary, 93
Pink, 93
White, 93

B

Baccharis
angustifolia, 140
halimifolia, 141
neglecta, 141
salicina, 141
Willow, 141

Baileya
multiradiata, 141

Baptisia
leucophaca, 48
Nuttalliana, 48
sphaerocarpa, 48

Basswood, 80

Bay
sweet, 39

Bayonet
Spanish, 15

Bean
Castor, 70
Coral, 51
Oneleaf, 59

ee
blossom, 87
Beech, 23
Beleperone
comosa, 130
Berlandiera
lyrata, 142
Lyre-leafed, 142
texana, 142

Berry

Pigeon, 33
Service, 42
Berberis
Swazeyi, 39
trifoliata, 39
Berchemia
scandens§7 7

167

Bernardia
myricaefolia, 68
Betula
nigra, 22
Bidens
aristosa, 142
bipinnata, 142
Bignonia
_capreo1ata, 128

1r
Paradise, 58
Bittersweet, 73
Bluebonnet
Chisos, 54
Pale, 54
Pink, 54
Purple, 55
Blue Curls, 119
Bladderwort
Hump-back, 128
Bois-D’Arc, 26
Boltonia
diffusa, 142
Boneset, 149
Blue, 148
Climbing, 158
False, 154
Prairie False, 154
Purple, 137
Boot Jacks, 142
Borrichia _
frutescens,_143
Bouquet
Devil's, 34
Boussingaltea
baselloides, 35
Brasil, 78
Brazoria
truncata, 113
Breadroot
Indian, 59
Breath
Baby's, 35
Brickellia
dentata, 143
Brier ‘
Yellow Sensitive, 56
Broom-Rape
Louisiana, 128
Broussonetia
papyrifera, 26
Brunnichia
cirrhosa, 4O
Brush
Black, 45
Burro, 153
Rock, 51
Sage, 139
White, 52
White, 112
Buckeye
Eastern Red, 75
Mexican, 76
Tall, 75
Woolly, 75
Bumelia
Schottii, 95
Burdock, 138
Buttercup
Large, 37
Bush
Button, 131
Creosote, 64
Elbow, 96
Silk Tassel, 92
Strawberry, 73
Wild Indigo, 47

168

Butter and Eggs, 125

C
Cacalia
tuberosa, 143
Callicarpa
americana, 110
Callirrhoe
digitata, 81
involucrata, 81
Calyptrocarpus
vialis, 143
Campsis
radicans, 128
Canaigre, 31
Capsicum baccatum,
baccatum, 119
Cardinal
Feather, 68
Cardiospermum
Halicacabum, 76
Carpinus
caroliniana, 22
Carya
myristicalformis, 21
Pecan, 21
Cassia
Lindheimefs, 48
Lindheimeriana, 48
occidentalis, 73
pumilio, 48
Roemer's, 49
Roemeriana, 49
Tora, 49
Castanea
ﬂoridana, 22
pumila, 22
Castela
texana, 67
Castilleja
indivisa, 123
Lindheimeri, 124
Catalpa
bignonioides, 129
speciosa,
Western, 129
Catsclaw
Long ﬂower, 46
Mimosa, 56
Round ﬂower, 46
Tree, 47
Cat-tail
Narrowleaf, 7
Wideleaf, '7
Cauliﬂower
Wild, 154
Ceanothus
americanus, 77
Greggii, 77
Cedar
Alligator, 6
Coast, 6
Mountain. 6
Salt, 83
Virginia Red 6
Celastrus
scandens, 73
Celestials, 18
Celtis
laevigata, 25
pallida, 25
reticulata, 25
Ceniza, 124
Centaurea
americana, 144
melitensis, 144
Centaury
Rayless Winged, 144
Centrosema
virginiana, 49
Century
plant, 16

Cephalanthus
occidentalis, 131

Cercidium
macrurn, 49
texana, 50

Cercis
canadensis, 50
occidentalis, 50

Cevallia
sinuata, 85

Chamaesaracha
Coronopus, 119

Chestnut
Horse, 75

Chicory, 145

Chicorium
intybus, 145

Chilipiquin, 119

Chilopsis
linearis, 129

Chinquapin, 22

China
Umbrella, 67
Wild, 76

Chionanthus
virginica, 96

Chrysanthemum
Leucanthemum,

Chrysothamnus
pulchellus, 145

Chrysopsis
pilosa, 144

Cicuta
maculata, 90

Cienfuegosia
sulphurea, 81

Cirsium
austrinum, 145
horridulum, 145

Cissus
Ampelopsis, 78
arborea, 79
incisa, 79

Citrus

trifoliata, 6S

Claytonia
Simsii, 34

Clematis
Texansis, 37
Drummondii, 37
Pipevine, 37
Pitcheri, 37
Red pipevine, 37
Old Man’s Beard, 37

Clitoria
mariana, 50

Cloeme
serrulata, 41

Clover

Bur, S5

Dutch \Vhite, 61

Indian Yellow, S6

Prairie, 53

Red. 62 -

Spotted Bur, 55

Tall Bush, 53

White sweet, 55

Yellow sweet, 56
Club of Hercules, 66
Cocculus

carolinus, 38

diversifolius, 39
Coldenia

canescens, 107
Colima, 66
Colts-Foot, 143
Colubrina

texensis, 77
Columbine

Long spurred, 36

Red, 36
Commelina, 10
Commelinantia

anomala, 10
Condalia

obovata, 78

obtusifolia, 78

Cone-Flower
Long headed, 155
Narrow leaf, 147
Pale Purple, 147
Rayed, 155
Convolvulus
hermannioides, 102
Cooperia
Drummondii, 17
Coral-Berry, 133
Cordia
Boisseri, 108
Coreopsis
cardaminaefolia, 146
Cress leaf, 146
nuescensis, 146
Cornus
asperifolia, 92
ﬁorida, 92
Corydalis
aurea, 40
curvisiliqua, 40
micrantha, 40
Cosmos
parviﬁorus, 146
Small pink ﬂowered,
146

Cottonwood
Eastern, 20
Trans-Pecos, 20

Coursetia
axillaris, 50

Coyotillo, 78

Cowania
ericaefolia, 42
Havardii, 42

Crabapple
Texas, 44

Crataegus, 43

Cristatella
erosa, 41

Croton
Myrtle leaf, 68

Crown-Beard
Mesquite, 164
Sunﬂower, 164

Cucurbita
foetidissima, 134
Pepo, 134

Cupressus
arizonica, 6

Cuscuta
Cephalanthi, 103
indecora, 103

Cypress
Arizona, 6
Southern, 7

D

Dagger

Western, 15
Daisy

Berlandier's, 142

Engelmann’s, 147

Large White, 137

Lindheimer’s, 157

Ox-eye, 144

Rock, 1S8

Sleepy, 16S

Western, 142
Dalea

frutescens, 50

nana, 51
Dandelion

White, 159
Dasylirion

texanum, 13
Datura

metel, 119

Stremonium, 120

quercifolia, 120
Delphinium

carolinianum, 37

virescens, 37

BULLETIN NO. 551, TEXAS AGRICULTURAL EXPERIMENT STATION

Desmodium

grandiﬁorum, 51 ’
Dianthera

americana, 130
Dichondra

repens var.

carolinensis, 103

Dichromena

colorata, 9
Diodia

virginiana, 131
Dioscorea

villosa, 15
Diospyros

texana, 95

virginiana, 96
Dipsacus

sylvestris, 134
Dodder

Prairie, 103

Buttonwood, 103
Dodocatheon

meadia, 94
Dogbane, 100
Dogwood

Flowering, 92

Roughleaf, 92
Dragon

Green, 9
Dragon Head, 115
Dragon's Head, 18
Dyssodia

tenuiloba, 146

E

Ears

Rabbit, 62
Ebony, 57
Echinacea

angustifolia, 147

pallida, 147
Eclipta

alba, 147 ‘

Ehretia
anacua, 108
Eichornia
crassipes, 12
lder
American, 133
Elephant Foot
Carolina, 147
Woolly, 147
Elephantopus
carolinianus, 147

m
American, 26
Cedar, 26
Slippery, 26
Winged, 25
Engelmannia
pinnatiﬁda, 147
Ephedra
antisyphilitica, 7
pedunculata, 7
Vine, 7
Equisetum
hyemale, 5
Erodium
cicutarium, 63
texanum, 63
Eriogonum
Abertianum, 29
coriaceum, 29
Havardii, 29
undulatum, 30
Eryngium.
Hookeri, 91
Leavenworthii, 91
Purple, 91
yuccifolium, 91
Erythrina
herbacea, 51

Erythronium
albidum, 13

 

 
 

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Eucnide
bartonioides, 85
Evonymus
americanus, 73
atropurpureus, 73
Eupatorium
coelestinum, 148
compositifolium, 148
havanense, 148
incarnatum, 149
perfoliatum, 149
Euphorbia
albomarginata, 69
bicolor, 69
heterophylla, 69
marginata, 69
Eurotia
lanata, 31
Eustoma
Russellianum, 98
Evax
prolifera, 149
Evolvulus
sericeus, 103
Eysenhardtia
texana, 51
\
F
Fagus
grandifolia, 23
Fallugia
paradoxa, 43
Featherfoil, 94
Fern
Adder’s Tongue, 5
Cinnamon, 5
Fourleaf Clover, 5
Licorice, 4
Regal, 5
Resurrection, 4
Venus Hair, 4
Feverfew, 158
Fir
Joint, 7
Flaveria
trinervia, 149

Flax
Blue Toad, 124
False, 105 .
Large Yellow, 62
Perennial Blue, 62
Fleabane '
Inland, 160
Philadelphia, 148
Salt Marsh, 159
Florestina
tripteris, 150
Flower
Bunch, 13
Cardinalis, 214
Day, 10
Moss, 34
Perennial Cone, 162
Pink Flame, 34
Pyramid, 98
Swan, 28
Yellow Flame, 34
Forestiera
I pubescens, 96
Fouquiera
splendens, 83
Foxglove, 126
Franseria
confertiﬂora, 1S0
Frasera
speciosa, 98
Fraxinus
americana, 96
caroliniana, 96
lanceolata, 97
Froelichia -
Drummondii, 32
Frogfruit, 112
Fumaria
ofﬁcinalis, 41

VALUABLE PLANTS NATIVE TO TEXAS

G
Gaillardia
amblyodon, 150
lanceolata, 150
pulchella, 151
Red, 150
suavis, 150
Yellow ﬂowered, 150
Garrya
Lindheimeri, 20, 92
Gaura
coccinea, 87
Giant, 89
odorata, 87
parviﬂora, 87
suffulta, 87
Velvetleaf, 87
Woody, 87
Gelsemium
sempervirens, 97
Gentian
Prairie, 98
Swamp, 98
Gentiana
Saponaria, 98
Gerardia
heterophylla, 124
Large Purple, 124
Prairie, 124
purpurea, 124
Germander
Coast, 118
Prairie, 118
Wood, 118
Gilia
incisa, 105
longiﬁora, 105
Red, 106
rigidula, 105
rubra, 106
White, 105
Gleditsia
aquatica, 52
texana, 52
triacanthos, 52
Glycyrrhiza
lepidota, 52
Goldenrod
Rayless, 145
Gomphrena
decumbens, 32
Nealleyi, 32
Gonolobus
laevis, 102
Gooseberry
Texas Star, 70
Gourd
Wild, 134
Granjeno, 25
Grape
Mountain, 79
Mustang, 79
Grass
Big Blue Stern, 8
Blue Eyed, 19
Bunch, 9
Bunch, 14
Little Blue Stern, 8
Reed, 8
Ribbon, 13
Tall Broom Sedge, 8
White Umbrella, 9
Yelloweyed, 10
Grindelia
grandiﬂora, 151
Groundcherry
Cut Leaf, 121
Large Bladder, 122
Mexican, 122
Guajillo, 45
Gulf, 57
Prairie, 45
Guayacon, 64
Gum
Sweet, 42

Gutierrezia
dracunculoides, 15 1

Hackberry
Roughleaf, 25
Smoothleaf, 25

Halesia
diptera, 96

Hamamelis
virginiana, 42

Haw
Black, 133
Possum, 72
Red, 43
Heart
Floating, 99
Hechtia
texensis, 11
Hedeoma
Drurnmondii, 113
Helianthus
angustifolius, 152
argophyllus, 152
cucumerifolius, 152
Maximiliani, 152
microcephalum, 152
petiolaris, 153
tuberosus, 153
Helietta
parvifolia, 65
Heliotrope
Indian, 109
Least, 109
Seaside, 109
Woolly, 109
Heliotropium
confertifolium, 108
convolvulaceum, 109
curassavicum, 109
indicum, 109

tenellum, 109
Herbertia

Drummondiana, 18

Watsoni, 18
Hercules

Club, 90
Hesperaloe

parviﬁora, 13
Heterotheca

subaxillaris, 153
Hibiscus

cardiophyllus, 81
lasiocarpus, 81
militaris, 81
Moscheutos, 82
Silver, 81
Hickory, 21
Hoarhound, 114
Hoffmanseggia
densiﬁora, 77
Holly, 111
Honey Plant
Rocky Mountain, 41
Honeysuckle
Evergreen Coral, 132
Hornbean,
Hop, 22
Hottonia
inﬂata, 94
Houstonia
humifusa, 131
mimima, 132
Pink, 131
Huckleberry
Tree, 93
Huisache, 46
Hyacinth
Water, 12
Hybanthus
verticillatus, 83
Hydrocotyle
unbellata, 91
Hymenocallis
galvestonensis, 17

169

Hymenoclea
monogyra, 153

Hymenopappus
artemisiaefolius, 154
corymbosus, 154
scabiosaeus, 154

Ibervillea
Lindheimeri, 134
Ilex
decidua, 72
opaca, 72
vomitoria, 72
Indigofera
miniata, 53
suﬂruticosa, 53
Indigo
Wild, 48
Ipomoea,
Annual, 104
crassicaulis, 104
leptophylla, 104
Lindheimeri, 104
Pes-Caprae, 104
Quamoclit, 104
Iris
Bronze, 18
fulva, 18
Tall, 18
Virginica, 18
Ironweed
Lindheimefs, 165
Ironwood, 95

Ivy
Sevenleaf, 79

J

Jacquemontia
tamnifolia, 104
Jasmine .
Yellow, 97
Jatropna
cathartica, 69
spathulata, 70
J ack-in-Pulpit, 9
Juglans
major, 21
niger, 21
Juniperus
lucayana, 6
pachyphloea, 6
Pinchoti, 6
virginiana, 6
Jussiae
diffusa, 87
suﬁruticosa, 88

Karwinskia
Humboldtiana, 78
Koeberlinia
spinosa, 64
Krameria
secundiflora, 53
Kuhnia
eupatorioides, 154
glutinosa, 154

L

Lactuca

ﬂoridana, 154
Lady's Thumb, 31
Laguerstroemia
" indica, 86
Lamium

amplexicaule, 114
Lantana

Camara, 111

involucrata, 111

macropoda, 111

White, 37

170 BULLETIN NO. 551, TEXAS AGRICULTURAL EXPERIMENT STATION

Larrea
tridentata, 64
Lavender
Mexican, 113
Lechugilla, 16
Leonotis
nepetaefolia, 114
Lepachys
columnaris, 155
columnaris var.
pulcherrima, 155
peduncularis, 155
peduncularis var.
picta, 155
Tagetes, 1S5
Lespedeza
Prairea, 53
Stuvei, 53
Lesquerella
grandiﬁora, 41
Lettuce
Tall Wood, 154
Leucaena
pulverulenta, 54
retusa, S4
Leucophyllum
frutescens, 124
minor, 124
Liatris
acidota, 156
cymosa, 156
elegans, 156
punctata, 156
pycnostachya, 157
squarrosa var.
intermedia, 157
Licorice
Root, 52
Ligustrum
ovalifolium, 97
vulgare, 97
Limonium
brasiliense, 94
Linaria
texana, 124
vulgaris, 125
Lindheimera
texana, 157
Linum
Berlandieri, 62
Lewsii, 62
sanctum, 62
sulcatum, 62
Lions-Head, 114
Lippia
Berlandieri, 111
lanceolata var.
recognita, 111
ligustrina, 112
nodiﬂora, 112
Liquidambar
stryraciﬂus, 42
Lithospermum
carolinense, 109
incisum, 110

Lily
Green, 14
Pond, 36

White Rain, 17
White Spider, 17
Yellow Rain, 17
Yellow Water, 36
Lizard tail, 19
Lobelia
cardinalis, 13S
Great Blue, 136
Loco
Narrow leaf, 47
Locust
Black, 59
Honey, 52
Texas, 52
XVater, 52

Lonicera
sempervirens, 132
Looking-Glass
Small Venus’, 135
Venus, 135
Loosestripe
Winged, 86
Lote, 78
Lotus, 36
Lupinus
Havardii, 54
perennis forma
roseus, 54
texensis, 55
subcarnosus, 54
Lycium
carolinianum var.
quadriﬁdum, 120
Lycopersicon
esculentum var.
cerasiforme, 120
Lygodesmia
texana, 157
Lyonia
ligustrina, 93
Lythrum
alatum, 86

Maclura
pomifera, 26
Macrosiphonia
macrosiphon, 100
Madrone
Texas, 93
Magnolia
Ashei, 38
virginica, 38
grandiﬂora, 38
Mallow
Halbardleaf, 81
Rose, 81
Woolly, 81
Malpighia
glabra, 64
Malvaviscus
Drummondii, 82
Maple
Balcones, 75
Big tooth, 74
Red, 75
Soft, 74
Southern Sugar, 74
Sugar, 74
Marrubium
vulgare, 114
Marshallia
ceaspitosa, 157
Marsillea
uncinata, S
Maurandya
antirrhiniﬁora, 125
Mayapple, 39
Maypop, 84
Meadow Beauty, 86
Maryland, 86
Medicago
arabica, 55
hispida, 55
sativa, 55
Melampodium
cinereum, 158
Melanthium
virginicum, 13
Melia
Azedarach, 104
Melilotus
alba, 55
indica, 56
ofﬁcinalis, 56
Menodora
heterophylla, 97
Mentha
piperita, 114
spicata, 115

Mentzelia, 85
decapetala, 85
multiﬂora, 85
nuda, 85

Mescalbean, 6O

Mesquite, 58

Mikania
scandens, 158

Milkweed
Blunt Leaf, 101
Green, 100
Large Green, 101
Money, 101
Star, 102
Swamp, 101
Vine, 102

Mimosa
biuncifera, 56
fragrans, 56
\Vootoni, 56

Mimulus
alatus, 125

Mint
Horse, 115
Lemon, 113
Pepper, 114
Pink, 118
Rattlesnake, 113
Spear, 115
Whiteleaf, 116

Mistletoe
common, 27
Juniper, 27

Mitchella
repens, 132

Morning Glory
Bush, 104
Clustered Blue, 104
Goatfoot, 104 -
Perennial Blue, 104
Redcenter, 102
Tall Bush, 104

Monarda
citriodora, 115
ﬁstulosa, 115
pectinata, 115
punctata, 115

Moneywort, 103

Mortonia
Greggii, 73
orus
alba, 26
microphylla, 27

oss
Baileys Ball, 11
Ball, 11
Spanish, 11
Mulberry

French, 110-

Paper, 26

Mountain, 27

Russian, 26
Mullen

Moth, 127
Mustard

Sacred, 121
Myrtle

Crape, 86

Wax, 2O

Wild Crape, 64
Myrica

cerifera, 20
Myriophyllﬁm, 89

Nelumbo
lutea, 36
Nemastylis
acuta, 18
coelestina, 18
Neptunia
lutea, 56
Nerium
oleander, 100
Nettle
Dead, 114

M

Nicotiana
glauca, 121
repanda, 121

Nightshade
Black, 122
Purple ﬂowered, 123
Silverleaf, 122
Vine, 123

Nolina
Lindheimeriana, 13
texana, 14

Nyctaginia
capitata, 34 '

Nymphaea
advena, 36
elegans, 36

Nymphoides
aquaticum, 99

Nyssa
aquatica, 92
sylvatica, 92

Oak, 23

Black, 25

Bray's 23

Bur, 24

Lacey’s, 32

Live, 2S

Mt. White, 23
Overcup, 24
Plain’s Shinnery, 23
Post, 24

Red, 24
Southern Red, 24
Spanish, 25
Texas White, 23

Ocotillo, 83

Oenothera
biennis, 88
heterophylla, 88
laciniata, 88
serrulata, 88
speciosa, 89
triloba, 89

Oleander, 100

we
Texas Wild, 108
Onion
White Flowered, 12
Yellow Flowered, 12
Onosmodium
bejarense, 110
Helleri, 110
Operculina
dissecta, 105
Ophioglossum
Engelmannii, 5
Orange
Bitter, 65
Orchis, 19
Orobanche
ludoviciana, 128
Osmunda
cinnamomea, 5
regalis, 5
Ostrya
virginiana, 22
Oxalis
dichondraefolia, 63
Drummondii, 63

P
Paint Brush
Indian, 124
Painted Cup
Texas, 123
Palo
Verda, 49

Texas, 9
Palmetto. 9

. J.

 

" -. mam,

 

 

Parkinosonia
aculeata, 57
Parsley, 91
Parsnip
wild, 90
Passiﬂora
incarnata, 84
lutea, 84
tenuiloba, 84
Passion Flower
White, 84
Yellow, 84
Parthenium
hysterophorus, 158
Pawpaw, 38
P Bush, 38

ea
Butterﬂy, 50
Gulf Coast, 49
Pastel, 61
Peanut
Hog, 47
Pecan, 21
Pectis
angustifolia, 158
Lemon Scented, 158
Penstemon
ambiguus, 125
Cobaea, 126
grandiﬂorus, 126
Honeysuckle, 126
Large Flowered, 126
Murrayanus, 126
Pink Plains, 125
Pepper
Small Water, 30
Persea
borbonia, 39
humilis and
pubescens, 39
Perezia
nana, 158
runcinata, 159
“irightii, 159
Periwinkle, 100
Persimmon
Black, 95
Petalostemum
microphyllum, 57
obovatum, 57
Petunia
parviﬁora, 121
Wild, 121
Phaulothamnus
spinescens, 33
Philadelphus
serpyllifolius, 42
Phlox
Blue, 106
divaricata, 106
Drummondii, 106
glaberrima, 106
pilosa, 107
Prairie, 107
Smooth Pink, 106
Phoradendron
ﬁavescens, 27
juniperinum, 27
Phragnites
communis, 8
Phyllanthus
avicularia, 70
Physalis
angulata, 121
ixocarpa, 122
lobata, 122
macrophysa, 122
Prostrate Purple, 122
Physostegia
virginiana, 115
Phytolacca
americana, 33

Pinaropappus
roseus, 159

VALUABLE PLANTS NATIVE TO TEXAS

Pine
Ground, 6
Pinyon, 7
Shortleaf, 7
Pinguicula
_pumi1a, 127

1n
Rose, 99
Pinus
cembroides, 7
echinata, 7
Pistacia
mexicana, 71
Pitcher Plant, 41
Pithecolobium
brevifolium, 57
ﬁexicaule, 57
Plant
Lead, 47
Rattlesnake, 16
Platanus
occidentalis, 42
Pluchea
camphorata, 159
purpurascens, 160
Plum
Hog, 77
Mexican Ground, 48
Sand, 4
Wild, 43
Plumbago
scandens, 94
Texas, 94
Pod
Bladder, 41
Podophyllum
peltatum, 39
Poinciana
Gilliesii, 58
Poinsettia
Wild, 69
Poke, 33
Polygala
alba, 68
ovatifolia, 68
Polygonella
americana, 30
articulata, 30
Polygonum
hydropiper, 30
hydropiperoides, 30
incarnatum, 3O
persicaria, 31
Polypodium
virginianum, 4
Polypteris
czillosa, 160
liookeriana, 160
Rayless, 160
texana, 160
Pontederia
cordata, 12

White, 40
Populus
angustifolia, 20
deltoides, 20
tremuloides, 20
Porlieria
angustifolia, 64
Portulaca, 34
Dwarf, 35
Primrose
Evening, 88
Red, 89
Tall, 88
Wire, 88
Privet
California, 97
Proserpinaca
pectinata, 90

Prosopis
chilensis, 58
cinerascens, 58
pubescens, S8

Prunella
vulgaris, 116

Prunus
mexicana, 43
texana, 43
umbellata, var.

tarda, 44

Parthenocissus
heptaphylla, 79

Psilostrophe
gnaphalodes, 160
Tagetinae, 161

Psoralea
esculenta, 59

Ptelea
Baldwinii, 65
monticola and

trifoliata, 66

Puccoon
Narrowleaf, 110
Woolly, 109

Pumpkin
Wild, 212

Pussyfoot, 57

Pycnanthemum
albescens, 116

yrus
ioensis, var.
texana, 44

Q
Quercus

alba, 23
Brayi, 23
breviloba, 23
Durandii, 23
Harvardii, 23
Laceyi, 24
lyrata, 24
macrocarpa, 24
nigra, 24
rubra, 24
Phellos, 24
Shumardii, 24
Stellata, 24
texana, 25
velutina, 25
virginiana, 25

R

Ranunculus
macranthus, 37
Ratama, 5_7
Rattan, 77
Redbud, 150
Eastern, 50
Mountain, 50
Rhamnus
caroliniana var.
molle, 78
Rhexia
mariana var.
leiosperma, 86
virginica, 86
Rhododendron
canescens, 93
nudiﬂora, 93
viscosum, 93
Rhus
copallina var.
lanceolata, 71
glabra, 71
virens, 72
vernix, 72
Rhynchosia
texana, 59
Ricinus
communis, 70
Rivina
humilis, 33

171

Robinia
luxuriana, 59
Pseudo-Acacia, 59
Rosa
laeviagata, 44
Rubus
trivialis, 45
Rudbeckia
amplexicaulis, 161
glabra, 161
grandiﬁora, 161
rnaxima, 161
Ruellia
ciliosa var.
humilis, 130
Hairy, 130
nudiﬂora, 130
Smooth, 130
strepens, 130
Tall, 130
Rumex
hymenosepalus, 31
Rush
Giant Bull, 9
Scouring, 5

Sabal
minor, 9
texana, 9
Sabbatia
angularis, 99
calycina, 99
campestris, 99
carnosa, 99
genianoides, 99
gracilis, 99
stellaris, 99
Sage, 116
Lyreleaf, 117
Mealy Blue, 117
Shrubby Blue, 116
Giant Blue, 117
Sagittaria
falcata, 7
Salad
corn, 133
Salvia
azurea, 116
ballotaeﬂora, 116
coccinea, 116
farinacea, 117
Greggii, 117
lyrata, 117
Pitcheri, 117
Sambucus
canadensis, 133
Samolus
alyssoides, 94
cuneatus, 95
Sapindus
Drummondii, 76
Sarracenia
Sledgei, 41
Sassafras
oﬁicinale, 40
Schaefferia
cuneifolia, 74
Schoenocaulon
Drummondii, 14
Scirpus
californicus, 9
Sclerocarpus
major, 161
Scrambled Eggs, 40
Screwbean, 58
Scutellaria
Drummondii, 117
Sea-Ox-Eye, 143
Selaginella
Riddellii, 6
Selfhead, 116
Selloa -
glutinosa, 162

172 BULLETIN

Senecio
longilobus, 162
Senna
Coffee, 49
Sickle, 49
Serjania
brachycarpa, 76
Shoe-String, 61
Shooting Star, 94
Siphonoglossa
Dipterocanthus, 131
pilosella, 131
Sisyrinchium, 19
Skullcap, 117
Smilax
Chinese, 14
Laurel leaf, 14
laurifolia, 14
Pseudo-china, 14
Smoke-Plant, 41
Snail Seed, 39
Snake Cotton. 32
Snake-Eyes, 33
Snake-Root
Button, 156
Hairy Button, 157
Slender Button, 156
Snow-on-the-Mountain,
69

Solarium
eleagnifolium, 122
nigrum, 122
Torreyi, 123
triquetrum, 123 '

Sophora i
afﬁnis, 6O
secundiﬂora, 60
sericea, 60
Silky, 60

Sotol, 13

Spanish-Needles 142

Spartina
pectinata, 9

Specularia
biﬂora, 135
perfoliata, 135

Sphaeralcea
angustfolia, 82
coccinea, 82

Spiderwort, 11

Spiranthes, 19

Spring Beauty, 34 -

Stachys Drummondii,

118

Star

Blue Texas, 99

Scaly Blazing, 157
Statice, 94

Stenosiphon
linifolius, 89

Stillingia
texana, 71

Stock
Wild, 41

Stork's Bill
Large, 63
Small, 63

Styrax
americana, 96

Sumac
Dwarf, 71
Evergreen, 72
Stag Horn, 71

Sunﬂower
Prairie, 153
Prostrate, 143
Sand, 152
Silverleaf, 152
Swamp, 152

Sycamore, 42

Symphoricarpus
orbiculatus, 133

Syringa, 42

T

Talinum
aurantiacum, 34
calycinum, 34
paniculatum, 35
parviﬂorum, 35

Tamarix
articulata, 82
gallica, 83
pentandra, 83

Tauschia
texana, 91

Taxodium
distichum, 7

Tea
New Jersey, 77

Teasel
Card, 134

Tecoma
stans var.
angustifolia, 129
Tepehuaje, 54
Tephrosia
Lindheimeri, 61
virginiana, 61
Tetragonotheca
texana, 162
Teucrium
canadense, 118
cubense, 118
laciniatum, 118

Thalia
dealbata, 19
Powdery, 19
Thelesperma
ambiguum, 163
Burridgeanum, 163
megapotamicum, 163
Tall, 163
triﬁdum, 163
Thistle
Red, 145
Sultana Star, 144
Yellow, 145
Thorn-Apple
Entire leaf, 119
Oak leaf, 120
Thoroughwort
Pink, 149
Thryallis
angustifolia, 65
Thunbergia
alata, 131
Tidestromia
lanuginosa, 32
Tilia
caroliniana, 8O
ﬂoridana, 80
leptopnylla, 80
Tillandsia
‘ Baileya, 11
i recurvata, 11
usneoides, 12

Tiny- Tim, 146'

Tipularia

cernuus, 19
Tomato

Wild Cherry, 120
Tornillo, 58
Townsendia

exscapa, 163
Tradescantia

canaliculata, 11

hirsutiﬂora, 11

humilis, 11
Tree

cucumber, 38

Groundsel, 141

of Heaven, 67

Large Silver Bell, 96

Silver Bell, 96

Smoke, 71

Sno avdrop, 96

White Fringe, 96
Trichostema

dichotomum, 119
Trifolium

pratense, 61

repens, 61
Trillium

pusillum, 14
Trumpet

Angel, 33

Creeper, 128
Tupelo

Big, 92

Upland, 92
Turk's Cap. 82
Typha

angustifolia, 7

latifolia, 7

U

Ulmus
alata, 25
american, 26
crassﬁolia, 26
fulva, 26

Ungnadia
speciosa, 76

Urtricularia
gibba, 128
inﬂata, 128

V

Vaccinium
arboreum, 93

Valerianella
stenocarpa, 133

Varilla
texana, 163

Vauquelinia
angustifolia, 4S

Verhascum
Blattaria, 127
Thapsus, 127

Verbena
bipinnatiﬁda, 112
ambrosifolia, 112
Pink, 112
Pirlrk, small ﬂowered,
12

quadrangulata, 112

Sand, 33

Western Pink, 112
Verbesina

encelioides, 164

helianthoides, 164

texana, 164

virginiana, 164
Vernonia

interior, 164

Lindheimeri, 165

NO. 551, TEXAS AGRICULTURAL EXPERIMENT STATION

Viburnum
ruﬁdulum, 133

Vinca
Major, 100
minor, 100
rosea, 100

Vincetoxicum
biﬂorum, 102

Vine

Alamo, 105

Balloon, 76

Blue Snapdragon, 125

Cross, 128

Dutchman's Pipe, 29

Eardrop, 29

Large Fruited
Matrimony, 120

Mimosa, 56

Pepper, 79

Serpent, 28

Texas Madeira, 35

Wisteria, 62

Viola
lanceolata, 83
missouriensis, 83
pedata, 83
primulifolia, 84
sagittata, 84
Violet
Arrowleaf, 84
Birdfoot, 83
Blue, 83
Dogtooth, 13
Primrose, 84
Vitex
Agnes-Castus, 113
Japanese, 113
negundo incisa, 113
_Vitis
candicans, 79
monticola, 79

W

Wahoo, 73

Walnut
Black, 21
Plains, 21

Water-rope, 89
Weed
Button, 131
Camphor, 153
Carpet, 112
Cud, 149
Jimson. 120
Leather, 7O
Loco, 48
Pickerel, 12
Skeleton, 157
Small ﬂowered
sneeze, 151
Southern Joint, 3O
Tall Water, 90
'Tar, 151
Water Smart, 3O
Western Bitter, 136
Yankee, 148
Wheel
Fire, 151
Widow's Tears, 10
Wld-yam, 15
Willow
Desert, 129
Primrose, 88
Water, 130
Wine-cup
Annual, 81
Perennial, 81
\\7inter Fat, 31
Wislizenia
refracta, 41

Wisteria
rnacrostachya, 62

Witch
Hazel, 42

X

Xanthisma
texanum, 165

Xanthoxylum
Clava-Herculis, 66
Fagara, 66
macrophyllum, 67

VALUABLE PLANTS NATIVE TO TEXAS

Xyris
ﬁmbriata, 10

Y

Yarrow, 136
Yaupon
Desert, 74
Evergreen, 72
Yellow-Top, 164
Yerba-del Buey, 79

Yucca

Aloeleaf, 15
aloifolia, 15
arkansana, 15
Early, 15
glauca, 15
louisianensis, 15
macrocarpa, 15
Redﬁower, 13
rupicola, 15
smoothleaf, 15
Treculeana, 15
Twistedleaf, 15

173

Z

Zephyranthes
texana, 17

Zexmenia
hispida, 165

Zinnia
grandiﬂora, 165
Prairie, 165

Zornia
bracteata, 62