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Native Plant Society of Texas

Smallflower Wrightwort

Carlowrightia parviflora

Other common name(s):

Family:

Acanthaceae (Acanthus 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

Herbaceous

Height

1
to
2
ft.

Spread

1
to
2
ft.

Leaf Retention

Semi Evergreen

Lifespan

Perennial

Habitat and Care Requirements

Soil Type(s)

Loam, Clay

Light Requirement

Part Shade, Shade

Water Requirement

Low

Native Habitat

Woodland

Bloom and Attraction

Bloom Color

Blue

Bloom Season

Spring, Summer, Fall

Seasonal Interest

Nectar, Pollen, Larval Host

Wildlife Benefit

Butterflies, Nectar Insects

Maintenance

Very drought tolerant. Native to arid regions. Has adapted to thrive with minimal moisture. Stores water in its roots during rains. Watering in a garden situation is only needed every 2-3 weeks. Works well in xeriscapes. Propagation: seed, cutting.

Comments

Blooms March-December. Creeping to erect subshrub, bearing inflorescences of lily-like flowers. Small leaves are lance-shaped. Leaf retention depends on the region. Forms colonies. Larval host: Crimson Patch Butterfly.
Previous Scientific Name(s): Dianthera parviflora, Drejera parviflora

References

Learn about how to propagate Texas native plants.

Material Treatment Method Collection References
Stem Cutting Dip the cut end of the stem into a rooting hormone powder to encourage root development. This step can increase the chances of successful rooting, but it is optional. Fill a small pot with a well-draining potting mix, such as a combination of peat moss and perlite or sand. Poke a hole in the soil with a pencil or stick and insert the cutting into the hole, ensuring at least one node is buried in the soil. Firm the soil gently around the base of the cutting. Water the cutting thoroughly but avoid waterlogged conditions. The soil should be kept consistently moist but not soggy. Cover the cutting with a plastic bag to create a humid environment, which helps in the rooting process. Place the pot in a warm, bright location with indirect sunlight. Avoid direct sun, which may scorch the cutting. Maintain a consistent temperature around 70°F (21°C) to promote rooting. Check the cutting regularly for new growth and root development, which should occur within a few weeks. The best time to propagate small-flower wrightwort is in spring and summer. During these seasons, conditions such as warmer temperatures and longer daylight hours favor the growth and establishment of cuttings. Ensuring adequate light and maintaining moderate temperatures will optimize rooting and plant health. Collect a healthy, disease-free stem cutting from small-flower wrightwort with a length of approximately 4-6 inches. Ensure the cutting has at least two nodes (points where leaves grow). Use sterile, sharp pruning shears to make a clean cut just below a node. 1) https://www.picturethisai.com/care/propagate/Carlowrightia_parviflora.html 2) https://propagate.one/how-to-propagate-carlowrightia-parviflora/?amp=1&print=pdf
Seed No Treatment Sowing the Seeds: Sow your Carlowrightia seeds in a well-draining seed starting mix during spring. Sprinkle seeds on the surface and lightly press them in, but avoid burying them deeply. Mist the soil gently and cover the container with a humidity dome or plastic wrap to retain moisture. Providing Optimal Conditions: Place the container in a warm, bright location, out of direct sunlight. Carlowrightia seeds appreciate consistent moisture but be careful not to overwater. Germination and Beyond: With patience, you can expect germination within 2-4 weeks. Once seedlings develop a few sets of true leaves, you can thin them out or transplant them into individual pots. Harden them off gradually before planting them outdoors after the last frost. Carlowrightia parviflora readily produces seed pods after flowering. To collect seeds, allow the pods to dry completely on the plant, then carefully break them open. Inside, you’ll find tiny, brown seeds ready for their new home. https://propagate.one/how-to-propagate-carlowrightia-parviflora/?amp=1&print=pdf

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