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(Ayenia filiformis)
Trans-Pecos Ayenia (Ayenia filiformis)
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CK Kelly
CC BY 4.0
Image By:
CK Kelly
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Copyright:
CC BY 4.0
Copyright Notice:
Photo by: CK Kelly | License Type: CC BY 4.0 | License URL: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ | Rights Holder: CK Kelly | Publisher: iNaturalist | Date Created: 2017-08-22T21:29:07Z |
Estimated Native Range
Summary
Ayenia filiformis, commonly known as Trans-Pecos Ayenia, is a semi-deciduous subshrub native to desert scrub and rocky slopes in the Chihuahuan Desert of the Southwestern United States and Northwest Mexico. It typically grows to a height of 1-3 feet (0.3-0.9 meters) and a width of 2-3 feet (0.6-0.9 meters). The plant has a compact form with small, dark green leaves and produces tiny, yet ornamental, red and purple flowers from spring through fall, which can add subtle color to arid garden settings.
Trans-Pecos Ayenia is valued for its drought tolerance and ability to thrive in hot, dry climates, making it an excellent choice for xeriscaping and rock gardens. It is also used for border planting in water-wise gardens. This subshrub prefers full sun to partial shade and requires minimal water once established, reflecting its adaptation to desert conditions. It is best grown in well-drained soils and is tolerant of poor, rocky substrates. While it is not commonly affected by diseases, it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered. Gardeners should be aware that Ayenia filiformis is not widely available in the nursery trade, so sourcing plants may require extra effort.CC BY-SA 4.0
Trans-Pecos Ayenia is valued for its drought tolerance and ability to thrive in hot, dry climates, making it an excellent choice for xeriscaping and rock gardens. It is also used for border planting in water-wise gardens. This subshrub prefers full sun to partial shade and requires minimal water once established, reflecting its adaptation to desert conditions. It is best grown in well-drained soils and is tolerant of poor, rocky substrates. While it is not commonly affected by diseases, it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered. Gardeners should be aware that Ayenia filiformis is not widely available in the nursery trade, so sourcing plants may require extra effort.CC BY-SA 4.0
Plant Description
- Plant Type: Subshrub
- Height: 1-3 feet
- Width: 2-3 feet
- Growth Rate: Moderate
- Flower Color: Red, Purple
- Flowering Season: Spring, Summer, Fall
- Leaf Retention: Semi-Deciduous
Growth Requirements
- Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
- Water: Low
- Drainage: Fast
Common Uses
Border Plant, Drought Tolerant, Low Maintenance
Natural Habitat
Desert scrub and rocky slopes in the Chihuahuan Desert
Other Names
Common Names:
Scientific Names: , Ayenia filiformis, Ayenia reflexa, Ayenia cuneata,
GBIF Accepted Name: Ayenia filiformis S.Watson