Texas madrone (Arbutus xalapensis) is an evergreen tree with attractive reddish bark, creamy white flowers, and red berries. It thrives in well-drained soils.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun to Partial Shade
75% intensity
Prefers at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day for best growth and flowering.
Drought Tolerant
25% intensity
Allow soil to dry completely between waterings once established. Reduce water in winter.
Well-drained, Loam, Sand, Clay
50% intensity
Adaptable
50% intensity
Tolerates a wide range of temperatures, from hot summers to moderate frosts. Protect young plants from severe freezes.
Low Needs
25% intensity
Rarely requires fertilization; if necessary, use a balanced, slow-release type in spring.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
None
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Texas madrone prefers infrequent watering once established, as it is drought-tolerant. Water deeply but allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings.
Overwatering can lead to root rot, especially in poorly draining soils. Reduce watering significantly during cooler, dormant periods.
Prune Texas madrone primarily to remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches. Significant structural pruning is rarely needed. If shaping is desired, do so lightly after flowering.
Avoid pruning during hot, dry periods to minimize stress on the tree.
Propagation is best achieved through seed, which requires a period of cold stratification. Seeds should be sown in a well-draining medium and kept consistently moist.
Cuttings are difficult to root and generally not recommended for successful propagation of this species.
Repotting is not typically necessary for mature Texas madrones due to their established root systems and preference for undisturbed soil. Young plants may require repotting every 2-3 years into a slightly larger container with excellent drainage, preferably in late winter or early spring.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Texas Madrone (Arbutus xalapensis)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Ericaceae |
| Genus | Arbutus |
| Species | Arbutus xalapensis |
Similar in genus Arbutus
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
