By Gaye Kriegel, Wilco Chapter
It’s often said that the Central Texas landscape lacks seasonal change, but we do have some gorgeous fall and winter foliage–if you know what to look for. Autumn brings dramatic gold and orange foliage with native Bigtooth Maples (Acer grandidentatum), vibrant Flameleaf Sumac (Rhus copallinum var. lanceolata), and stunning purple Fall Asters (Symphyotrichum oblongifolium). Then comes the inevitable brown foliage of winter. Gardener0s often spend this time of year inside by a warm fireplace perusing seed catalogs while dreaming of spring. Don’t linger too long, though, or you’ll miss a winter showstopper–the Possumhaw Holly (Ilex decidua).
During the summer, it’s easy to drive by these native shrubby trees without noticing them. After the first frost, though, they drop their leaves dramatically, revealing a showstopping display of bright red berries. They’re visible even at highway speeds–at least until a flock of Cedar Waxwings descends and gobbles them up. Berries can persist into mid-winter, providing a spectacular site to brighten up our cold weather days.
Did you like this article? It’s from our Winter 2024 Texas Native Plants magazine. Read more here
