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Texas mountain laurel

How to identify Texas mountain laurel (Sophora secundiflora)

Texas mountain laurel, also known as Frijolito, Texas mescalbean

Texas mountain laurel presents as a robust evergreen, multi-trunked tree or large shrub, typically attaining an average height of 10 to 15 feet (3 to 4.5 meters) but capable of reaching up to 32 feet (nearly 10 meters) under optimal conditions. Its habitat preference includes well-drained, moist to occasionally dry, limestone soils. Texas mountain laurel thrives in full to partial sunlight and is characterized by its formation of dense thickets or small groves. The foliage remains lush year-round, contributing to its evergreen status.

Lifespan

Lifespan: Perennial

Plant Type

Plant Type: Shrub

Leaf Type

Leaf Type: Evergreen

Quickly Identify Texas mountain laurel

1

Pea-like violet-blue flowers in drooping clusters.

2

Distinct woody pods with bright red toxic seeds.

3

Pinnately divided leaves with shiny, leathery leaflets.

4

Average height of 10 to 15 feet (3 to 4.5 meters).

5

Forms dense thickets in well-drained limestone soils.

Texas mountain laurelTexas mountain laurelTexas mountain laurelTexas mountain laurelTexas mountain laurel

Detailed Traits of Texas mountain laurel

Leaf Features

The leaves of texas mountain laurel are pinnately divided with 7-9 leaflets, each notched and silky below. These compound leaves are dense and glossy, featuring shiny, leathery leaflets that are rounded on the ends. The leaflets are up to 2 inches (5 cm) or longer, tapering more gradually to the base than to the tip, and are arranged along an axis terminating in a single leaflet.

Leaf Arrangement

Alternate

Leaf Apex

Obtuse

Leaf Texture

Coriaceous

Leaf Margin

Entire

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Flower Features

The flowers of texas mountain laurel are exquisite, pea-like, and exhibit a striking violet-blue color. Arranged in drooping clusters spanning 3 to 7 inches (7.6 to 17.8 cm), these flowers are not only visually impressive but also highly fragrant. The petals are delicately arranged, enhancing their showy appearance. Blooming primarily in spring, these clusters create a vibrant display that is easy to recognize and appreciate for both novice and expert plant enthusiasts alike.

Texas mountain laurel Flower imageTexas mountain laurel Flower image
Inflorescence Type

Raceme

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Fruit Features

The fruit of texas mountain laurel is a distinct woody pod, typically exhibiting a deep purple to black hue when mature. Each pod reaches approximately 2-4 inches (5-10 cm) in length. Upon opening, the interior reveals a series of bright red, highly toxic seeds. These seeds are often shiny and bead-like, offering a stark contrast against the dark interior of the pod. The exterior of the pod may display a leathery texture and can split open along a seam to expose the seeds within. Its striking seed coloration and pod characteristics make it a unique feature for identification.

Texas mountain laurel Fruit imageTexas mountain laurel Fruit imageTexas mountain laurel Fruit image
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Key Facts About Texas mountain laurel

Attributes of Texas mountain laurel
Lifespan
Perennial
Plant Type
Shrub
Flower Size
8 cm to 15 cm
Flower Color
Purple
Blue
Lavender
Fruit Color
Red
Burgundy
Leaf type
Evergreen
The Toxicity of Texas mountain laurel
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Scientific Classification of Texas mountain laurel

Family
Legume
Icon allow
Species
Texas mountain laurel (Sophora secundiflora)
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Distribution Map of Texas mountain laurel

Texas mountain laurel grows natively on the edge of streams from southern Central USA to Mexico, developing into thickets and small groves. Its distribution hasn't been widespread, reaching India, Kenya, and Pakistan.
Native
Cultivated
Invasive
Potentially invasive
Exotic
No species reported
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