Tough Bully
(Sideroxylon tenax)
Tough Bully (Sideroxylon tenax)
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Scott Allen Davis
CC BY 4.0
Image By:
Scott Allen Davis
Recorded By:
Copyright:
CC BY 4.0
Copyright Notice:
Photo by: Scott Allen Davis | License Type: CC BY 4.0 | License URL: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ | Rights Holder: Scott Allen Davis | Publisher: iNaturalist | Date Created: 2019-08-07T16:26:44-07:00 |
Estimated Native Range
Summary
Sideroxylon tenax, commonly known as Tough Bully, is an evergreen or semi-deciduous tree or shrub native to the understory of pine flatwoods, coastal hammocks, and mixed hardwood-pine forests in the Southeastern United States. It can reach up to 8 meters (almost 27 feet) in height and is characterized by its thorny stems. The Tough Bully produces small, white flowers, about 5 mm (0.2 inches) across, which are borne in clusters of up to 40. Following the flowering season, it bears very dark purple, almost black berries that are spherical to egg-shaped and about 10 mm (0.4 inches) across.
This species is valued for its hardiness and adaptability, making it suitable for use as a hedge or in naturalistic plantings. Its dense foliage and thorny branches can provide excellent cover for wildlife. Tough Bully thrives in a range of light conditions, from full sun to part shade, and prefers soils with good drainage. While it tolerates medium to low water conditions, it benefits from occasional watering during prolonged dry spells. Gardeners should note that the thorns can make handling and pruning a challenging task.CC BY-SA 4.0
This species is valued for its hardiness and adaptability, making it suitable for use as a hedge or in naturalistic plantings. Its dense foliage and thorny branches can provide excellent cover for wildlife. Tough Bully thrives in a range of light conditions, from full sun to part shade, and prefers soils with good drainage. While it tolerates medium to low water conditions, it benefits from occasional watering during prolonged dry spells. Gardeners should note that the thorns can make handling and pruning a challenging task.CC BY-SA 4.0
Plant Description
- Plant Type: Tree, Shrub
- Height: 15-30 feet
- Width: 15-30 feet
- Growth Rate: Moderate
- Flower Color: N/A
- Flowering Season: Spring, Summer
- Leaf Retention: Evergreen
Growth Requirements
- Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
- Water: Medium, Low
- Drainage: Fast
Common Uses
Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Fragrant, Low Maintenance, Salt Tolerant
Natural Habitat
Native to the understory of pine flatwoods, coastal hammocks, and mixed hardwood-pine forests
Other Names
Common Names: Tough-Buckthorn
Scientific Names: , Sideroxylon tenax, Bumelia tenax, Bumelia lacuum, Sideroxylon chrysophylloides, Sideroxylon sericeum, Bumelia chrysophylloides, Chrysophyllum carolinense, Chrysophyllum glabrum, Lyciodes tenax
GBIF Accepted Name: Sideroxylon tenax L.