TEXAS MOUNTAIN LAUREL
Sophora secundifl ora
(SOF-or-uh sek-und-ee-FLOR-uh)
Mescal Bean, Colorino, Frigolito, Frigillito, Big Drunk Bean
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Description | This harbinger of spring is a native evergreen with luxuriant foliage and intensely fragrant, deep violet flower clusters. All parts of this plant are poisonous – children, pets and the unaware need be cautioned. |
| Plant habit |
Narrow and upright, maturing into an open canopy Typically multi-stemmed |
| Landscape use |
Plant as a specimen or in a group for visual impact Ideal for small locations Plant in a location where the fragrant blossoms can be enjoyed |
| Average mature size | 20’ tall x 15’ wide |
| Growth rate |
Slow Difficult to propagate and transplant due to its sensitive root system, thus larger specimens are relatively expensive in the nursery trade |
| Sun exposure | Sun; may benefit from afternoon shade when young |
| Soil requirements | Tolerates alkaline conditions |
| Water requirements | Prefers any well-drained soil |
| Heat tolerance | High; tolerates urban growing conditions |
| Foliage |
Evergreen Glossy, green leaves are thick and leathery, providing dense coverage |
| Flowers |
Purple flower panicles Very fragrant |
| Blooming period | Spring |
| Fruit characteristics | Long hairy seed pods; white or red seeds are poisonous |
| Pests and disease | None serious |
| Other |
Earth-Kind® plant: tolerates infrequent watering, poor soils, and is relatively pest and disease free May need protection from a severe winter in the Brazos Valley Before 1000 A.D., Texas Indians brewed a ceremonial, hallucinogenic drink made from a mixture of powder ground from a seed and mescal (Agave) to communicate with the spirit world. In 1539, Cabeza de Vaca reported use of the red bean (seed) used in trading goods. At that time, a six foot necklace of beans could buy a small horse. |
“For drought tolerance, no pests and ease of growing, our Texas Mountain Laurel is hard to
beat.”
- Paul Groom, Texas Gardening Guide.
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