Texas Madrone

(Arbutus xalapensis)

Texas Madrone (Arbutus xalapensis)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Arbutus xalapensis, commonly known as Texas Madrone, is an evergreen tree or large shrub native to the chaparral, oak woodlands, and pine forests of the southwestern United States and Mexico. It can grow to a height of 5–25 meters (17–84 feet) with a trunk up to 50 cm (20 inches) in diameter. The Texas Madrone has a distinctive appearance with its smooth, orange-brown bark that peels away in thin sheets, revealing a reddish or pinkish underbark. Its foliage consists of leathery, dark green leaves. The bell-shaped flowers are white or pale pink, 5–10 mm long, and bloom in loose panicles, offering a modest display in the spring. The fruit is a rough-surfaced red berry about 1 cm (0.4 inches) in diameter, which is reportedly edible, though caution is advised due to the narcotic properties of related species.

The Texas Madrone is valued for its striking bark and evergreen foliage, making it a unique specimen for xeriscaping and naturalistic landscapes. It is also used for reforestation in its native range. In cultivation, it prefers full sun but can tolerate part shade, requiring low to medium amounts of water and well-drained soils. While it is drought-tolerant once established, young plants may need additional irrigation during prolonged dry periods. There are no widely recognized cultivars of this species in the horticultural trade, and it is generally grown from seed. Potential problems include root rot in poorly drained soils and susceptibility to fungal diseases in humid climates. It is not known to be invasive when grown outside its native range, but its slow growth rate and difficulty in transplanting due to a deep taproot should be considered when planning its use in the landscape.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Tree
  • Height: 30-40 feet
  • Width: 15-25 feet
  • Growth Rate: Slow
  • Flower Color: Pink, White
  • Flowering Season: Spring
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Water: Low, Medium
  • Drainage: Slow, Medium

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Drought Tolerant, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Fragrant, Hummingbird Garden, Low Maintenance, Showy Flowers, Street Planting

Natural Habitat

Native to chaparral, oak woodlands, and pine forests of the southwestern United States and Mexico

Other Names

Common Names: Madrono, Naked Indian Tree, Texas Madroño

Scientific Names: , Arbutus xalapensis, Arbutus peninsularis, Arbutus glandulosa, Arbutus macrophylla, Arbutus densiflora, Arbutus varians, Arbutus prunifolia, Arbutus laurina, Arbutus donnell-smithii

GBIF Accepted Name: Arbutus xalapensis Kunth