ORCHID TREE (Bauhinia lunarioides)

ORCHID TREE
(Bauhinia lunarioides)

Best traits—The leaves on this shrublike tree are shaped like tiny butterflies. From late spring to early summer it produces pale-pink or white blossoms (depending on variety) that resemble small orchids. Bees, butterflies and birds are attracted to its blooms and seeds. This low-water-use tree can handle dry to wet soils and is hardy to 10 degrees.

Growing tips—Plant in full sun to part shade in areas protected from harsh winds. Excellent as an understory plant (one grown under larger specimens). Periodic thinning helps to retain its treelike shape.

BLUE PALO VERDE (Parkinsonia florida)

BLUE PALO VERDE
(Parkinsonia florida)

Best traits—A multi-trunked tree with blue-green branches, it puts on a spectacular show of color in late spring when bright-yellow flowers cover its entire canopy. It is the first palo verde to bloom in spring, and also is the largest of the species. Native to Arizona, it is drought- and heat-tolerant and makes an excellent addition to the home landscape.

Growing tips—Plant in soil with good drainage in full sun or an area with reflected heat. Maintenance includes pod and flower cleanup, as well as removal of seedling sprouts as needed.

DESERT WILLOW (Chilopsis linearis)

DESERT WILLOW
(Chilopsis linearis)

Best traits—This small ornamental tree has a willowy appearance and produces large orchid-like flowers from late spring to fall. Its ruffled, violet-scented blooms range in color from white to pink to purple. Hummingbirds and bees are attracted to this fast-growing, low-maintenance plant. Hardy to -10 degrees, it also is heat- and drought-tolerant.

Growing tips—Plant in full sun to part shade in well-draining soil. Allow soil to dry out between waterings to encourage waves of blooms. Due to its shrublike nature, it may need to be pruned if a tree shape is desired.

TEXAS MOUNTAIN LAUREL (Sophora secundiflora)

TEXAS MOUNTAIN LAUREL
(Sophora secundiflora)

Best traits—Most recognized for its purple wisteria-like flowers that smell like grape Kool-Aid, this spring-blooming evergreen tree is ideal for patio areas due to its small size. It makes a good xeriscape plant, as it generally is disease- and pest-free, can withstand west-facing locations, and requires little water once established. It also is resistant to deer.

Growing tips—Plant in full sun to light shade, being careful not to disturb the root ball, as this tree does not transplant easily. Good drainage is a must. Note: All parts of the plant are poisonous.




Other favorites: cascalote, ironwood, jacaranda, kidneywood, mesquite, palo brea, palo verde, Texas ebony