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Native Plant Society of Texas

Crucillo

Randia obcordata

Other common name(s):

Family:

Rubiaceae (Madder Family)

Plant Ecoregion Distribution Map

This map uses data from the US EPA. EPA  servers have been offline frequently so maps may not display. We are working on a solution.

Gulf Coast Prairies and Marshes
Lower Rio Grande Alluvial Floodplain, Lower Rio Grande Valley, Southern Subhumid Gulf Coastal Prairies

Plant Characteristics

Growth Form

Shrub

Height

3
to
6
ft.

Spread

3
to
4
ft.

Leaf Retention

Deciduous

Lifespan

Annual

Habitat and Care Requirements

Soil Type(s)

Sand, Loam, Clay, Rich, Well Drained

Light Requirement

Sun, Part Shade

Water Requirement

Low

Native Habitat

Woodland

Bloom and Attraction

Bloom Color

Yellow

Bloom Season

Spring, Summer

Seasonal Interest

Fruit, Forage, Nectar, Pollen, Nesting Material

Wildlife Benefit

Butterflies, Birds, Small Mammals, Deer, Bees

Maintenance

Low maintenance. Drought tolerance is achieved once the plant is established, and watering should be withheld during winter dormancy. Widely used as an ornamental and hedge plant in warm regions. Plant away from high traffic areas due to spiny stems. Native habitat: in the Rio Grande Valley of Texas, near streams, river banks, and canyons as well as dry, rocky, open sites. Propagation: cuttings.

Comments

Blooms April-August. Grows as a tall shrub or small tree. Stems have cross-like paired spines. Heart-shaped leaves are leathery. When in full bloom, branches are covered with the white 4-lobed flowers. single or few on leaf axils, especially after rains. The green-striped berry ripens to blueblack.
Previous Scientific Name(s): Randia rhagocarpa

References

Learn about how to propagate Texas native plants.

Material Treatment Method Collection References
Stem Cutting Rooting hormone powder or gel stimulates root growth from randia obcordata cuttings. By applying the hormone to the freshly cut base, it increases the probability of cuttings establishing roots rapidly, which is crucial for the overall survival and development of new randia obcordata plants. Plant them in a well-draining soil mix. Ensuring adequate moisture and avoiding direct sunlight initially can enhance root development, thus increasing the chances of successful establishment. A humidity dome helps maintain high humidity levels around randia obcordata cuttings, which is beneficial in preventing the cuttings from drying out before they have a chance to root. Maintaining a consistent environment with adequate moisture around the cuttings is critical for their survival during the initial stages of rooting. Regular monitoring for pests and diseases should accompany this propagation process to maintain the vitality of the new plants. A heat mat can be crucial for propagating randia obcordata from cuttings, especially in cooler environments. It provides consistent bottom warmth that can significantly improve the rooting success rate by promoting an ideal growing environment. Select healthy, disease-free stem cuttings in spring or summer. Sharp pruning shears are essential for taking clean and precise cuttings from randia obcordata. A clean cut helps minimize damage to the parent plant and the cutting itself, enhancing the chances of successful rooting. These shears should ideally be disinfected before use to prevent disease transmission. https://www.picturethisai.com/care/propagate/Randia_obcordata.html#:~:text=Randia%20obcordata%20is%20typically%20propagated%20through%20cuttings%2C,moisture%20and%20avoiding%20direct%20sunlight%20initially%20can

About the Region

Fall Symposium 2025 Logo - Teach for the Future

Salado, the location of our Fall 2025 Symposium, lies at the intersection of two ecoregions: the Edwards Plateau (Limestone Cut Plain) and Blackland Prairie (Northern Blackland Prairie).

The Edwards Plateau area is also called the Hill Country; however, this general term covers a much larger area extending farther north. Spring-fed creeks are found throughout the region; deep limestone canyons, rivers, and lakes (reservoirs) are common. Ashe juniper is perhaps the most common woody species found throughout the region. Additional woody species include various species of oak, with live oak (Quercus fusiformis) being the most common. Sycamores (Platanus occidentalis) and bald cypress (Taxodium distichum) border waterways. This area is well known for its spring wildflower displays, though they may be viewed in spring, late summer, and fall, as well. According to Texas Parks and Wildlife, average annual rainfall in the Edwards Plateau ranges from 15 to 34 inches.

The Blackland Prairie extends from the Red River south to San Antonio, bordered on the west by the Edwards Plateau and the Cross Timbers, and on the east by the Post Oak Savannah. Annual rainfall averages 30 to 40 inches, with higher averages to the east. This region is dominated by prairie species. The most common grass species include little bluestem (Schizachyrium scoparium) and Indian grass (Sorghastrum nutans) in the uplands and switchgrass (Panicum virgatum) in the riparian areas and drainages. Common herbaceous flowering plants include salvias, penstemons, and silphiums. This area has suffered greatly from overgrazing and agricultural use. Few intact areas remain, though many of the plants can be found along county roadsides throughout the region.

Our fall Symposium host chapter, the Tonkawa Chapter, includes both of these ecoregions.

Source: Wildflowers of Texas by Michael Eason