Sophora secundiflora (Texas Mountain Laurel)

Noted for its remarkable flowers and seed pods, Sophora secundiflora (Texas Mountain Laurel) is a slow-growing, evergreen shrub of narrow upright habit, that can be trained into a single or multi-trunk small tree. In spring, it boasts a profusion of dense, pendulous clusters of extremely fragrant, purple-blue flowers. Reminiscent of wisteria blooms, their unique fragrance is often described as grape bubblegum or grape soda. Rich in pollen and nectar, the flowers attract bees and butterflies. They are followed by gray fuzzy seed pods, 8 in. long (20 cm), which dangle from the tree like Christmas ornaments, decorating it all summer until fall. The beautiful red seeds inside the pods have been used to make necklaces and are highly valued by Native Americans for their ornamental and ceremonial use. The lush and dense foliage of lustrous, leathery, dark green leaves provides year long beauty. Tough as nails, Texas Mountain Laurel withstands heat, is extremely drought tolerant and thrives in poor alkaline soils. It can be used as a specimen, patio, or street tree and is ideal for use as a screen or an espalier. Great for xeriscape gardens that it will grace with its presence. Please note that both seeds and flowers are poisonous and contain narcotic properties. Be sure to keep small children and pets a safe distance from this plant.

• Grows up to 15-25 ft. (4-8 m) tall and 8-10 ft. wide (2-3 m).
• Easily grown in average, alkaline, dry to medium, well-drained soils in full sun or part shade. Highly drought tolerant once established.
• Great as a specimen plant, shrub borders, foundation plantings, hedges. Thrives in warm coastal conditions.
• Virtually disease free and pest free. Deer resistant.
• Propagate by scarified seed after the soil has warmed in spring or fresh seed still swollen in pod in fall.
• Native to Texas, New Mexico, Mexico.