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In almost any urban park in the San Antonio area, no matter how compacted the soil, which ecoregion or how hot and dry, if you look closely next to any tree trunk that displays roots above ground, you will find Rivina humilis (USDA symbol RIHU2) there. Throughout the state of Texas, numerous species of birds find sustenance in the fruit of these remarkably durable “pigeonberry” plants.
Rivina humilis is a constant example that can be used to shatter the myth of “anything birds can eat is edible for humans”. Pigeonberry fruit and leaves are toxic to humans. Yet another nickname, “rouge plant” is based on its historic use in cosmetics—perhaps a strong reason to avoid using any product that requires animal testing to determine toxicity before being sold to humans. Rivina humilis also provides support for identifying every plant by scientific name before purchasing from a grower, as many native plants are known by the common name of “pigeonberry”.
Rivina humilus “plays well with others” in the wooded landscape. In combination with other plants growing in areas that have some shade, the pink bloom spikes add delicate and noticeable color. As other deciduous plants drop leaves and become less noticeable to the passing human, this pigeonberry’s leaves flame with red color, made all the more vivid in the presence of luscious red berries.
Throughout Texas, Rivina humilus is an invaluable understory plant that provides food support for migratory and resident birds. It often goes unnoticed in the landscape among taller plants until the other plants fade and pigeonberry flames. When landscaping support is provided, gardeners may get taller plants in sheltered areas, adding even more visual appeal to humans.
See the Native Plant Information Network profile of RIHU2 for more details: https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=RIHU2
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**ARCHIVED POST AUTHOR: cywinski
