The Most Unusual Trees for a Texas Landscape

Texas gardeners have their choice of trees that are familiar to gardeners in many parts of the country. Several varieties of Ash are popular in the state. River birch, bald cypress, catalpa, crabapple, crape myrtle, black cherry, desert willow and several varieties of elm are also popular. Texas is also home to some more unusual trees that add another dimension to the landscape. Pick a small one for a lawn specimen or a large one for a shade tree.

Hemp tree (Vitex agnus-castus) is also known as the chaste tree, sage tree and monk tree. The plant grows as a small tree or large shrub, from 10 to 15 feet tall and about as wide. Grey-green to dark green leaves grow from 3 to 4 inches in diameter with the scent of sage. It is the shape of the leaves that gives the plants is most common name. They strongly resemble Cannabis, but only in looks. The violet, blue, purple or white flowers grow in clusters only on the current years growth and bloom from the spring through the fall. The seeds that follow the flowers are used as a spice similar to pepper. The tree can grow in any type of soil as long as it is well drained. Plant in full sun, partial shade or full shade. Bees and hummingbirds will make a meal out of the nectar. The tree is hardy in USDA zones 6 to10.

Japanese Zelkova (Zelkova serrata) is a member of the elm family. The tree grows up to 60 feet tall and about the same in width. The tree features dark green leaves turn yellow, gold, orange, burgundy, red, and wine in the fall. The red-brown twigs and trunk contribute to the tree's color pallet also. Plant Japanese Zelkova in full sun or partial shade and a moist, well-drained soil. The tree is actually native to China and is hardy in zones 5 though 8.

Texan Sumac(Rhus lanceolata) grows up to 25 feet tall. The green leaves measure 2 to 4 inches long and turn to orange, red, or yellow in the fall before dropping. Yellow-white flowers bloom in the summer growing in clusters measuring 6 tp 10 inches long and wide. The rounnd, orange-red hairy fruits follow and mature in October. Plant in full sun or partial shade and a well-drained soil. The tree is considered to be drought resistant. The plant is hardy in USDA zones 6b though 8Song birds will come by and help with removing the fruits.

Sources: Texas Tree Planting Guide