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Description
Arbutus Xalapensis, commonly known as the Texas madrone, is a small to medium-sized evergreen tree that is native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. The tree can reach a height of up to 50 feet and has a trunk that can grow up to 2 feet in diameter. The bark of the tree is smooth and reddish-brown and peels off in thin, papery sheets.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Ericaceae |
| Genus | Arbutus |
Appearance
The leaves of Arbutus Xalapensis are thick and leathery, and are a glossy dark green color. The tree produces small white or pink flowers in the spring, which are followed by small red berries in the fall. The berries are edible and have a sweet taste, but are not commonly consumed by humans. The wood of the tree is very hard and is used for making furniture and other wood products.
Care Guide
Arbutus Xalapensis prefers well-drained soil and full sun exposure. The tree requires moderate watering, but is drought tolerant once established. Fertilize the tree in the spring with a slow-release fertilizer. The tree is hardy in USDA zones 7-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Arbutus Xalapensis is relatively disease and pest resistant. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if planted in poorly-drained soil. Scale insects and spider mites can also be a problem, but can be controlled with insecticidal soap.
Habitat
Arbutus Xalapensis is native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico, and is commonly found in dry rocky slopes and canyons. The tree is often used for landscaping in arid regions due to its drought tolerance and attractive appearance.
Question and Answer
Q: Are the berries of Arbutus Xalapensis edible?
A: Yes, the berries are edible, but are not commonly consumed by humans.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Arbutus Xalapensis?
A: The tree is hardy in USDA zones 7-9.
Q: What is the wood of Arbutus Xalapensis used for?
A: The wood is very hard and is used for making furniture and other wood products.
Q: What pests can be a problem for Arbutus Xalapensis?
A: Scale insects and spider mites can be a problem, but can be controlled with insecticidal soap.
Related Plants
- Arbutus menziesii (Pacific madrone)
- Arbutus unedo (Strawberry tree)
- Arbutus andrachne (Greek arbutus)
References
- “Arbutus Xalapensis.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, University of Texas at Austin, www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=arxa.
- “Arbutus Xalapensis.” USDA NRCS, plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=ARXA.
- “Texas Madrone.” Texas A&M Forest Service, texastreeid.tamu.edu/content/TreeDetails/?id=229.
