Pithecellobium flexicaule

’Texas ebony’

OVERVIEW:

Pithecellobium flexicaule ’Texas ebony’ is a 25 to 30 ft. shrub or tree with a rounded, dense canopy. This tree grows at a slow to medium rate, with height increases of anywhere from less than 12" to 24" per year. While it needs care and watering when young, this tree can survive the driest conditions once established. Full sun is the ideal condition for this tree, meaning it should get at least six hours of direct, unfiltered sunlight each day. The Texas ebony grows in acidic, alkaline, sandy, well-drained and clay soils. Produces fragrant creamy white and yellow flowers in late spring and intermittently throughout the summer. Features dark green leaves with oval leaflets and 4–6" long brown or black seed pods that can be propagated by germination.

CLASSIFICATION:

Scientific Name: Pithecellobium flexicaule ’Texas ebony’

Common Name: Texas ebony

Family: Leguminosae

Suggested Uses: Parking lot island, shade, container, or planter

CHARACTERISTICS:

Height: 25-30ft

Foliage: Dark green leaves with oval leaflets

Flower: Yellow, white/gray

Bloom Period: June - August

Fruit: Brown/black elongated, pod

Bark: Smooth, grey bark

ENVIRONMENT:

Sun: Full sun

Water: Low moisture required

Soil: Variety-clay, sand, alkaline, acidic, well-drained

USDA Zone: 9b - 11