WILDFLOWERS
Flower lovers who visit the Lower Rio Grande Valley are usually amazed at the profusion of wild flowers to be seen along the roadsides and in Valley fields and meadows. Prickly-Poppy in several pastel shades, wild Verbena, Evening Primrose, Galliadia, Phlox, Coreopsis, Globe Amaranth, Day-Flower, Wild Petunia, Sand-Verbena, Mallow, Wild Hibiscus, Wild Turk’s Cap, numerous species of daisy, Gentian, Wild Vetch, several species of sunflower, and many other attractive flowering plants have been used by the Highway Department in roadside beautification and soil erosion control.
Abronia umbellata. Pink Sand-Verbena, Heart’s Delight. Low growing, succulent plants having fleshy stems; thick, sticky, bluish-green, ovate leaves; and showy, verbena-like heads of rosy-lavender flowers. Found in the region near Falfurrias. A. fragrans (White Sand-Verbena) is occasionally seen. (Nyctaginaceae.)
Abutilon incanum. Woolly Indian Mallow. This plant produces thin, velvety leaves and yellow mallow flowers. (Malvaceae.)
Abutilon pedunculare. Large Flowered Indian Mallow. A plant up to eighteen inches in height, which produces thick, valvety, heart-shaped leaves and 5-petaled orange-yellow, mallow flowers.
Acerates auriculata. Auricled Milkweed. A leafy plant up to 2 feet high that produces dull green, leathery, oblong leaves and clusters of hooded, greenish flowers along the upper stem. (Asclepiadaceae.)
Acleisanthes obtusa (Berlandieri). Angels’ Trumpet, Four O’Clock. A perennial vining plant that produces small, triangular, succulent leaves and fragrant white, tubular flowers one to two inches long that open in the evening and close the following morning. (Nyctaginaceae.)
Ageratum. Floss Flower, Boneset. These plants produces clustered heads of flowers that consist of very small tubular florets having numerous, conspicuous stamen. A. corymbosum is Purple Boneset, a perennial plant that produces heads of showy, bright purple to blue flowers. The plant is bushy; up to 3 feet tall; and has bright green, triangular leaves. (Compositae.)
Amblyolepsis setigera. Honey Daisy. This annual plant reaches a height of about 15 inches and produces smooth, bright green leaves and many fragrant yellow flowers about one inch in diameter. (Compositae.)
Ammoselinum Popei. Sand-Parsley. A small annual plant that forms a low rosette of very finely cut, deep green leaves and umbels of very small, white flowers on the tips of slender stalks. The flowers are followed by spiny seed cases 1/8-inch long. (Umbelliferae.)
Aphanostephus humilis. Poorland or Humble Daisy. A common lawn daisy that produces small, toothed or wavy edged, narrow leaves and small white flowers that are tinged with purple. (Compositae.)
Aphanostephus skirrobasis. Large White Daisy. An annual plant that produces small, toothed or wavy edged, narrow leaves and white flowers tinged with purple which are one inch to one and a half inches in diameter.
Aplopappus (Isocoma) Drummondii. Drummond’s Yellow Daisy. A shrubby leafy, annual plant that produces terminal clusters of yellow flowers in erect, small heads. (Compositae.)
Aplopappus megacephalus. Large Flowered Aplopappus. This plant comes from a perennial root and produces numerous stems up to 3 feet high; numerous deep green, toothed leaves, and clusters of yellow flowers.
Argemone platyceras var. hispida. White Prickly-Poppy. The flowers of this species are papery white. (Papaveraceae.)
Argemone mexicana. Yellow Prickly-Poppy. This species produces yellow flowers.
Argemone sanguinea. Red Prickly-Poppy. This species produces flowers that range in color from pink to rosy red.
Three species of these annual prickly plants are native to the Lower Rio Grande Valley. They make thistle-like plants about 2 feet high that have pale green, prickly foliage and large showy flowers.
Asclepias. Milkweed. Several kinds of milkweeds are found in this region, some of which are of ornamental value. All of them have milky sap and long seed pods filled with plumose seed. A. tuberosa, the showiest of the native Milkweeds, has been described under Shrubs. A. texana is the common Milkweed of southwestern Texas. It is a leafy plant up to 2 feet high, that produces smooth, oblong, blue-green leaves and clusters of hooded, white flowers along the upper stem. (Asclepiadaceae.)
Aster tenuifolius. Salt Marsh Aster. A tall growing, slender annual plant that reaches a height of five feet. It produces small dark green lanceolate leaves and lavender flowers. (Compositae.)
Astragalus Nuttallianus. Wild Vetch. A low growing sprawling annual plant that produces slender, weak stems; very small, dark green, pinnate leaves; clusters of very small, pea-shaped purple flowers; and small brown seed pods. These plants form dense mats of foliage. (Leguminosae.)
Baileya multiradiata. Paper Daisy. A perennial plant about one foot in height that produces woolly, lobed leaves and papery, pale yellow flowers on long leafless stalks. (Compositae.)
Boerhaavia decumbens. Wine-Flower. A low growing species that produces tiny wine-red flower clusters on the tips of long, bare, flower stalks and hairy 5-ribbed fruits. (Nyctaginaceae.)
Boerhaavia erecta. Erect Boerhaavia. An erect plant up to 8 inches high that produces tiny white flower clusters and inverted, cone-shaped fruits on the ends of slender, bare stalks.
Borrichia frutescens. Sea Ox-Eye Daisy. This perennial plant reaches a height of 2 feet. It produces thick, whittish, elliptic leaves and yellow, daisy-like flowers having few rays. (Compositae.)
Brazoria truncata. Rattlesnake Mint. An upright, annual plant having square stems, bright to bronzy green serrated leaves and terminal spikes of pinkish tubular flowers. (Labiatae.)
Callirrhoe digitata. Annual Wine-Cup, Claret-Cup. Spreading plants having wine-red, holly-hock-like flowers. (Malvaaceae.)
Callirrhoe involucrata. Perennial Wine-Cup, Claret-Cup. This plant consists of a heavy, tuberous root, and spreading, prostrate branches; deeply cut, dark green leaves; and wine-red, holly-hock-like flowers.
An annual and a perennial form of Callirrhoe are found in this region. Both produce dull green, digitate leaves; and wine-red, holly-hock-like flowers. White flowered varieties are occasionally found.
Callisia repens. Callisia, Dwarf Wandering Jew. This small, perennial, trailing plant produces succulent, bright green stems that root at the nodes; and small bright green leaves. The plant is similar in appearance and habit of growth to the commonly grown Wandering Jew except that it is much smaller and has no purplish coloration nor striping.
Calyptrocarpus vialis. Prostrate Sunflower. A small, prostrate, perennial plant that produces bright green, ovate leaves and very small, pale yellow flowers on the tips of the branches. (Compositae.)
Capsicum frutescens. Chiliquipin, Bird Pepper. An evergreen bush that produces dark green, ovate leaves, small, white, solanaceous flowers and a profusion of small, orange-red, hot peppers which are useful in the making of pepper sauce. (Solanaceae.)
Cassia littoralis. Sensitive-Pea. This vine is similar to the Partridge Pea except that the seed pods are heavily covered with short hairs. (Leguminosae.)
Cassia texana. Partridge-Pea. A delicate trailing vine having small, sensitive pinnate leaves, orange-yellow flowers and flat pods.
Castilleja indivisa. Texas Painted-Cup. These plants are found growing in the region north of Edinburg. They produce light green, lanceolate leaves, and spikes of very small, tubular red flowers surrounded by colored bracts, in pastel shades of rose and tan. The Indian Paint Brush (C. Lindheimeri) is similar to the above except that the colored bracts are more varied and more delicate in color. (Scrophulariaceae.)
Centaurea americana. Star-Thistle, Sweet Sultan. This annual plant is not a prickly plant but derives and name Star-Thistle from the resemblance of the flowers to those of the true thistles. It reaches a height of about 2 feet and produces light green, narrow-lanceolate leaves and flat heads of fragrant lavender and white, composite flowers. (Compositae.)
Centaurium (Erythraea) texense. Texas Pink. An annual, branching plant about 10 inches in height that produces pale green, lanceolate leaves and bright pink, star-shaped flowers. (Gentianaceae.)
Centrosema (Bradburya) virginianum. Butterfly-Pea. A twining Gulf Coast vine having thread-like stems; trifoliate leaves; pale purple, pea-shaped flowers similar to sweet peas; and flat pods ending in a long, sharp point. (Leguminosae.)
Cevallia sinuata. Cevallia. These perennial plants reach a height of 2 feet. They produce white branches; wavy, lobed leaves; and terminal plumose, flowering heads. The entire plant is covered with stinging hairs. (Loasaceae.)
Chamaesaracha sordida. Ground Saracha. A low, spreading perennial plant somewhat similar in appearance to the Mexican Evening-Primrose plant. It produces grayish-green, wavy edged leaves; pale, yellow, 5-angled, saucer-shaped flowers which are followed by almost white pea-like berries. (Solanaceae.)
Chrysopsis pilosa. Golden Aster. This is a perennial gray-green plant growing as a slender cluster of stems about 8 inches high covered with gray-green, hairy, oblong leaves. It produces bright yellow flowers. (Compositae.)
Cirsium (Carduus) austrinum. Red Powder-Puff Thistle. Flowers range in color from purplish rose to pink. (Compositae.)
Cirsium (Carduus) horridulum. Bull Thistle. This plant produces yellow flowers.
The Powder-Puff Thistles are found in the Lower Rio Grande Valley. Both species produce flowers having ornamental value. These thistles reach a height of 2 feet and produce dark green, very prickly leaves and "power-puff" heads of prickly flowers which are followed by prickly pods.
Clappia suaedaefolia. Clappia Daisy. A perennial plant that produces toothed leaves and yellow flowers. (Compositae.)
Clitoria mariana. Porcelian Butterfly-Pea. This sandy-land Gulf Coast pea vine is similar to the Butterfly-Pea except that the seed pods are much shorter. (Leguminosae.)
Commelina. Day-Flower, Widow’s Tears. These Day-Flowers produce showy, bright blue flowers. C. angustifolia produces flowers from 1/2 to 1 1/2 inches across. C. virginica, the Gulf Coast species, produces more delicate leaves and smaller flowers. C. crispa produces crispy, lavender-blue flowers in the tips of the branches. (Commeliaceae.)
Coreopsis basalis. Golden-Wave Calliposis, Tickweed. An annual, bushy plant that produces numerous, small, linear leaves and a profusion of flat yellow flowers having brown centers. (Compositae.)
Coreopsis cardaminefolia. Cress-Leafed Coreopsis. A yellow flowered annual coreopsis having a brown center. It produces dull green, heart-shaped leaves and yellow, daisy-like flowers on long, slender stems.
Coreopsis nuescensis. Sand-Dollars. A less bushy, weedy plant than the ones mentioned above. It produces a perennial rosette of bright green, deeply cut leaves and long stems topped by yellow, daisy-like flowers. A pale lavender-colored line runs about midway across each petal, completely circling the flower.
Corydalis curvisiliqua. Scrambled Eggs. A spreading annual plant, 2 to 4 inches high, that produces deep green, finely cut foliage; very small, bright yellow, spurred flowers; and small 4-angled seed pods. (Papaveraceae.)
Crotalaria incana. Rattlebox. This annual Crotalaria was probably introduced into this region and has become an escape. It reaches a height of five to seven feet and produces deep green, trifoliate leaves; spikes of deep yellow pea-shaped flowers; and cylindrical tan seed pods that rattle in the wind when they mature. (Leguminosae.)
Cynoctonum Mitreola. Mitrewort. A perennial plant that reaches a height of about 1 foot. It produces fleshy ovate leaves and curved, one-sided, flower spikes bearing small, white flowers. The seed pods are mitre shaped. (Loganiaceae.)
Dalea (Parosela) aurea. Golden-Dalea, Parosela. A branching plant up to 1 foot high that produces grayish-green, compound leaves, and long wiry stems topped by pale, thick, furry, flower spikes circled with tiny yellow flowers. (Leguminosae.)
Dalea (Parosela) lasiathera. Purple-Dalea, Parosela. A low, branching plant similar in appearance to Golden Dalea. The thick, furry flower spikes are circled with tiny, purple flowers.
Delphinium virescens (albescens). White Larkspur. This small plant comes from a tuber. It produces a leafy top of dull green, deeply cut leaves. The spikes of white to pale lavender flowers are about 3 inches long and are thick and somewhat velvety in texture. (Ranunculaceae.)
Descurainia (Sophia) pinnata. Tansy-Mustard. A small, annual plant forming a flat rosette of bright green, finely cut leaves and elongated, terminal clusters of small, greenish flowers which are followed by spikes of ornamental seed cases somewhat resembling those of the Pepper Grass. (Cruciferae.)
Dichondra repens var. caroliensis. Moneyweed. These tiny plants often form thick mats in the lawn. They produce many creeping stems covered with very small, kidney-shaped to oval leaves, and a few small, greenish flowers. (Convolvulaceae.)
Dyschoriste (Calophanes) linearis. Polkadot-Plant. A plant 6 to 10 inches high that produces dark green, linear to spatulate leaves, tubular purplish flowers with raised dots in the throats; and oblong seed pods. (Acanthaceae.)
Dyssodia (Thymophylla) tenuiloba. Tiny Tim. Small annual plants that produce dark green, finely cut foliage having a carrot-like odor and very small, deep yellow, composite flowers. Dyssodia Berlandieria is the Gulf Coast species. It produces plant about 4 inches high, having very dark green, fern-like foliage and a profusion of small, deep yellow, daisy-like flowers. (Compositae.)
Erigeron philadelphicus. Philadelphia Lawn Daisy. This species produces soft, rounded, hairy leaves, drooping buds and pinkish to white flowers having yellow centers. (Compositae.)
Erigeron repens. Sea Beach Daisy. This Gulf Coast species if similar in appearance to the above except that it is a small plant forming a low rosette of creeping stems that root at the nodes, and produces smaller flowers.
Eupatorium azureum. Showy Thoroughwort. A sprawling, annual plant that produces triangular leaves and light blue flowers. (Compositae.)
Eupatorium incarnatum. Pink Thoroughwort. This vine-like, annual plant produces numerous small white flowers in the fall that turn red with age.
Euphorbia bicolor. Gulf Coast Milkweed. This species produces narrow upper leaves with showy, white markings. (Euphorbiaceae.)
Euphorbia marginata. Snow-on-the-Mountain. This plant produces broad-ovate upper leaves with showy, white margins and splotches.
Two species of Snow-on-the-Mountain are found in almost every part of Texas. They produce plants up to 30 inches high having milky sap and light green, ovate leaves that have ornamental, white markings; and terminal clusters of knotted, inconspicuous flowers.
Eustoma Russellianum. Purple Gentian, Bluebells. These plants produce purplish-blue flowers. (Gentianaceae.)
Eustoma Russelianum var. gracile. Bluebells, Yellow-Centered Gentian. This plant produces yellow centered flowers.
These valuable annual plants produce light green, lanceolate leaves and showy bell-shapped flowers.
Evolvulus sericeus. Dwarf Morning-Glory. A very small, spreading plant. It produces very small, light green, linear leaves and very small, solitary, morning-glory-like flowers which are light blue to white in color. (Convolvulaceae.)
Foeniculum vulgare (foeniculum). Fennel, Yellow Queen Anne’s Lace. This native species produces finely cut leaves and flat, greenish-yellow flower heads on the top of large plants. (Umbelliferae.)
Gaillardia amblyodon. Red Gaillardia, Fire-Wheel Gaillardia. This is the sandy land species. The ray flowers are widely spaced, giving the flower the appearance of a sparsely petaled daisy. (Compositae.)
Gaillardia aristata. Thick-Leaf Gaillardia. A plant that produces pale green, thick, coarsely toothed leaves and red and yellow, daisy-like flowers.
Gaillardia chrysantha. Yellow Gaillardia. A plant that produces attractive, pure yellow flowers.
Gaillardia pulchella var. picta. Annual Gaillardia, Rose-ring. This plant produces the showy red and yellow daisy-like flowers that are familiar to all Valley flower lovers.
Gaura odorata (Drummondii). Bee-Flower. This species produces wavy edged, lanceolate leaves and small white flowers that turn pink the second day. (Onagraceae.)
Gaura parviflora. Velvet Leaf. This plant produces velvety lanceolate leaves and pink to rose-colored flowers.
Gaura sinuata. Wild Honeysuckle. Plants of this species produce hairy, wavy edged, linear leaves which are toothed and small, white flowers which turn pink the second day.
Gaura villosa. Woolly Gaura. A very branching plant having small, woolly, toothed leaves and small racemes of pink flowers on a long stem.
Four species of the so-called wild Honeysuckle plants are found in this region. They are usually tall, slender, branches plants, each branch terminating in a fragrant, slender, drooping spike of pink to rose colored flowers which open in the evening.
Gilia incisa. False Flax. A slender, branching, annual plant about 8 inches in height that produces deeply toothed leaves and 5-lobed, solitary, blue flowers. (Polemoniaceae.)
Gomphrena decumbens. Texas Globe Amaranth. This plant reaches a height of about 18 inches. It produces medium green, ovate leaves and stiff globular heads of purplish-red flowers. (Amaranthaceae.)
Gomphrena Neallayi. Coast Globe Amaranth. A less vigorous plant that produces cylindrical heads of flowers which are less showy than those of G. decumbens.
Two species of Globe Amaranth, or Bachelor Buttons, are native to South Texas. These attractive annual everlastings are useful in droughty locations.
Grindelia inuloides. Gum Plant, Gum Daisy. This annual plant produces closely toothed, dull green leaves, gummy, sticky buds and clusters of yellow flowers. (Compositae.)
Gutierrezia dracunculoides. Small-Headed Matchweed. This plant produces its composite flowers in clusters. (Compositae.)
Gutierrezia texana. Large-Headed Broomweed. Plants of this species produce very small, solitary, composite flowers.
These annual, weedy bushes are about 18 inches in height. They produce wiry stems, small, narrow leaves, and tiny yellow flowers in the fall.
Heimia salicifolia. Heimia. A perennial plant up to 3 feet in height that produces paired, lanceolate leaves and deep yellow flowers. (Lythraceae.)
Helenium elegans. Sneezeweed. A plant from 12 to 15 inches in height that produces lanceolate leaves and yellow flowers (1 inch in diameter) having greenish centers. (Compositae.)
Helianthus argophyllus. Silverleaf Sunflower. A woolly annual plant up to 15 inches in height that produces silvery-gray leaves and solitary, yellow flowers having dark centers. (Compositae.)
Helianthus debilis (cucumerifolius). Sand Sunflower. An annual plant 3 to 4 feet high that produces ovate-lanceolate, medium green leaves and solitary deep yellow flowers having dark centers. The branches are splotched with purple.
Helianthus Maximiliani. Maximilian Sunflower. A perennial plant 5 to 6 feet in height that produces annual stalks bearing lanceolate to linear leaves and solitary yellow flowers having dark centers.
Heliotropium curassavicum. Seaside Heliotrope. This plant reaches a height of one foot and requires a moist location. It produces fleshy, wedge-shaped leaves and a few branches which terminate in paired spikes of very small, white flowers, the tips of the flowering spikes being coiled. (Boraginaceae.)
Heliotropium tenellum. Wild White Heliotrope. This species differs from the above in having linear leaves. It produces a profusion of blooms throughout the year. (H. indicum is the introduced, blue flowered species.)
Heterotheca subaxillaris. Camphor-Weed. A plant about a foot high that produces sticky, hairy leaves having a camphor odor, and yellow flowers. (Compositae.)
Hoffmanseggia densiflora. Gyp Plant. This peculiar plant comes from a large, hard tuber. It produces a few fern-like leaves and bright, yellow, bean-shaped flowers. (Leguminosae.)
Houstonia humifusa. Houstonia, Innocence. A sandy land, low growing annual that produces many forked, wiry, square stems; small, narrow leaves; and a profusion of very small pink flowers. The peculiar forking of the branches gives the plant a flat-topped appearance. (Rubiaceae.)
Indigofera miniata. Butterfly Shoestring-Pea, Scarlet Pea, Indigo Plant. A small prostrate native plant having small pinnate leaves covered with very fine hairs; pea-shaped, deep pink to pale scarlet flowers in slender clusters; and straight, thick, angled pods. (Leguminosae.)
Jatropha cathartica. Geranium Flowered Jatropha, Cactus Geranium. This peculiar ornamental plant comes from a large, hard, top-shaped, gray tuber. It produces succulent, blue-green stems; deeply cut succulent, blue green leaves, and small, bright rosy-red, geranium-like flower clusters. (Euphorbiaceae.)
Jussiae diffusa. Water-Primrose. This water plant produces the typical Evening-Primrose flowers which are yellow in color. (Onagraceae.)
Krameria secundifolia. Kramer’s Wine-Flower. This perennial plant is mentioned for identification purposes only. It is a prostrate plant that produces dull green, hairy, linear leaves, small, wine-red flowers; and hard, spiny, one-seeded fruits. (Leguminosae.)
Lepachys (Ratabida) columnaris. Long Headed Cone-Flower, Mexican Hat. This plant produces flowers having a 2-inch long, brown, center cone surrounded by bright yellow ray flowers. (Compositae.)
Lepachys columnaris var. pulcherrima. Long Headed Cone Flower. This variety produces flowers also having a two inch long, brown center cone but surrounded by maroon colored rays.
Lepachys peduncularis var. pitcaLong Headed Cone-Flower, Thimble Flower. Plants of this species produce slender, greenish colored cones surrounded by highly colored rays. The leaves of this plant are thick.
Several kinds of Coneflowers are found in this region and are useful in any wild flower garden. They produce deeply cut, dull green, rough leaves and long wiry stems.
Lepidum virginicum. Pepper-Grass. This dainty little plant reaches a height of 18 inches. It produces very narrow, toothed, bright green leaves and spikes of very small, 4-petaled, white flowers which are followed by numerous peppery, ornamental seed-cases. These seeds are greatly relished by the birds. (Cruciferae.)
Lesquerella grandiflora. Large-Flowered Bladderpod. These plants produce flowers 1/2 inch in diameter. (Cruciferae.)
Lesquerella lasiocarpa var. Berlandieri. Small-Flowered Bladderpod. Plants of this species produce flowers 1/8 inch in diameter.
These small annual plants produce clusters of wedge-shaped leaves on slender stems bearing small, linear leaves; and small, bright yellow flowers which are followed by small, bladder-like seed capsules.
Limonium brasiliense. Sea-Lavender, Statice. This branching, sea-coast plant reaches a height of 2 feet. It produces a low rosette of oblong leaves and terminal heads of very small, crowded, crisp, white to lavender flowers on the tips of long, wiry, leafless stalks. (Plumbaginaceae.)
Linum Berlandieri. Berlandier’s White Flax. These plants produce small white flowers. (Linaceae.)
Linum multicauli. Small Yellow Flax. Plants that produce flowers up to 3/4 inch in diameter.
Linum sulcatum. Grooved Yellow Flax. These plants produce flowers 1 inch in diameter.
Three species of flax are found in this region. They produce slender, branching plants having small, lanceolate leaves and flowers that shed quickly.
Lippia incisa. Frogfruit. A small plant that produces flowers 1/8 inch in diameter. (Verbenaceae.)
Lippia nodiflora. Carpet Weed. This species produces small flowers 1/4 inch in diameter. The plant is about 5 inches high.
Two species of this perennial plant are found in the Lower Rio Grande Valley. They produce small mats of wiry stems; finely toothed, rough, small leaves; and small, peculiar, thimble-shaped flowers having elongated, brownish centers surrounded by tiny white flowers.
Lithospermum matamorense. Rio Grande Puccoon. A low growing perennial that produces very small, bright green, spatulate leaves; and very small, terminal, solitary white flowers. (Boraginaceae.)
Lobelia puberula. Blue Lobelia. A branching, annual plant that produces many slender stems; toothed, lanceolate leaves; and small, tubular, bright blue flowers having white centers. (Lobeliaceae.)
Lupinus subcarnosus. Sandy Land Bluebonnet. The Texas state flower is a native of East Texas and is probably an escape in this region. It produces spikes of blue, pea-shaped flowers having a few red splotches. (Leguminosae.)
Lupinus texensis. Bluebonnet. This species produces spikes of purplish-blue pea-shaped flowers.
Lythrum tanceolatum. Loosestrife. A small, annual plant having narrow lanceolate to linear leaves folded against the slender stems and small, bright bluish-violet flowers borne in the leaf axils. (Lythraceae.)
Macrosiphonia macrosiphon. Angel Trumpets. This perennial plant resembles the milkweeds and has long-ovate, wavy edged leaves that are covered with small white hairs on the under side. It produces a few, tubular, white flowers somewhat like periwinkles except that the corolla tubes are 6 to 8 inches long. (Apocynaceae.)
Malvastrum americanum. False-Mallow. This weed is mentioned for identification purposes only. It reaches a height of about 30 inches and produces tough, serrated, dull green, ovate leaves and pale yellow flowers on short stalks followed by small, flattened, woolly capsules. (Malvaceae.)
Marsilia vestita. Four-Leaf-Clover Fern. A small fern that is found growing in moist locations. The name is descriptive of the plant. This attractive border plant can be used where constant moisture is available. (Marsileaceae.)
Melampodium cinereum. Rock Daisy. This small annual plant produces wavy edged leaves crowded along the stems and white flowers having yellow centers. (Compositae.)
Melampodium cinereum var. ramosissimum. Blackfoot Daisy. A small annual plant that produces broad-ovate leaves and small white flowers having toothed and fringed petals and yellow centers.
Menodora heterophylla. Redbuds, Menodora. These small, perennial plants produce small, gray-green, deeply cut leaves and small red buds that open into yellow flowers, the outside of which are red. (Oleaceae.)
Mentzelia oligosperma. Mentzelia, Good Mother. A prickly haired, perennial, bushy plant. It is similar in appearance and flowers to the cultivated Corchorus (Kerria japonica). It produces dull green, toothed, prickly haired, lanceolate leaves, and 5-petaled, flat, golden-yellow flowers. M. nuda produces 10-petaled flowers. (Loasaceae.)
Micromeria pilosiuscula. Micromeria. A small, bushy plant that produces square stems, ovate leaves and very small, lavender, 2-lipped tubular flowers, borne in the axils of the leaves. (Labiatae.)
Mimosa malacophylla. Vine Mimosa. Vine Mimosa. A creeping plant having small, dark green pinnate, sensitive leaves, small cream-colored "powder puff" blossoms and numerous small pods. This little plant may become a lawn pest. (Leguminosae.)
Mimosa strigillosa. Pink Sensitive-Briar. A creeping plant that produces small, sensitive, pinnate leaves, and fragrant, gold-tipped pink "powder puffs" which are followed by inch long seed pods.
Monarda dispersa. Valley Horsemint. Aromatic plants up to 2 feet in height that usually produce stalks which bear dark green, serrated, long-ovate to lanceolate leaves and rosette-like spikes of small, tubular, purple flowers surrounded by purplish, leaf-like bracts. (Labiatae.)
Monarda punctata. Perennial Horsemint. Plants that reach a height of about a foot. They produce stalks which bear dark green, serrated, long-ovate to lanceolate leaves and rosette-like spikes of small, tubular white flowers in whitish, leaf-like bracts.
Nama (marilaunidium) hispida. Sand-Bells. A low growing plant that produces small, hairy, rough, dark green, spatulate leaves and saucer-shaped, deep blue to violet flowers. These flowers are quite similar in appearance to those of the Baby Blue Eyes. (Hydrophyllaceae.)
Nama (Marilaunidium) undulatum var. macranthum. Sunbells. The plants resemble those of Phacelia patuliflora, but the saucer-shaped flowers are light blue in color, having white centers, and do not have coiled buds.
Nemophila phacelioides. Baby Blue Eyes. These weak stemmed annual plants produce light green, lobed leaves and light blue, saucer-shaped flowers shading into white at the centers. This flower can be distinguished from the other species by its double circle of sepals surrounding the flower. (Hydrophyllaceae.)
Neptunia lutea. Yellow Sensitive-Briar. This plant is similar to the Pink Sensitive-Briar except that the blossoms are yellow. (Leguminosae.)
Nicotiana repanda. Star Tobacco. This plant reaches a height of 2 feet. It produces a rosette of large, light green, broad-ovate leaves and small, star-shaped white flowers on the tips of tall, slender, leafless stalks. (Solanaceae.)
Nicotiana trigonophylla. Velvet Leaf Tobacco. An annual plant that produces large, deep green, sticky, velvety leaves; and star-shaped, white flowers on the tips of slender, leafless stalks.
Nothoscordum bivalve. Crow Poison, Wild Onion. A small bulbous plant that produces a few, dark green, grass-like leaves and an erect, terminal umbel of small star-shaped white flowers on the tip of a 6-inch stalk. The entire plant has an onion odor. (Liliaceae.)
Nyctaginia capitata. Devil’s Bouquet. A sprawling plant having grayish-green leaves with a musky odor, and sticky stems tipped with red flower clusters. Comes from a parsley-like root. (Nyctaginaceae.)
Oenothera Drummondii. Seashore Yellow Evening-Primrose. These small plants produce small yellow flowers. (Onagraceae.)
Oenothera laciniata. Mexican Evening-Primrose. Plants of this species produce large yellow flowers.
Oenothera rosea. Dwarf Pink Evening-Primrose. These plants produce very small, pink flowers.
Oenothera serrulata. Square Bud Evening-Primrose. Evening-Primrose plants that produce square buds and small yellow flowers. Remains open in bright sunshine.
Oenothera (Hartmannia) speciosa. Apple Blossom Evening-Primrose. These plants produce flowers which range in color from deep pink to white.
These low growing, sprawling plants produce long, narrow, wavy edged, grayish-green leaves and attractive flowers that open in the evening and remain open until a few hours after sunrise.
Orobanche (Myzorrhisa) ludoviciana. Louisiana Broom Rape. A parasitic plant that forms a low cluster or mat of leaves. It produces clusters of small, lavender flowers. (Orobanchaceae.)
Parthenium hysterophorus. Wild Cauliflower, Santa Maria Feverfew. This weed is mentioned for identification purposes and not because it has any ornamental value. It is an annual plant that produces deeply cut, dark green leaves and very small, white cauliflower-like heads. As these flowerheads dry, they become a menace to hay-fever sufferers. (Compositae.)
Penstemon ambiguus. Pink Penstemon. A plant having a perennial root that produces annual stalks bearing deep green, serrated, lanceolate leaves and spikes of pink tubular flowers. This plant is native to other sections and is probably an escape in this region. (Scrophulariaceae.)
Perezia runcinata. Devil’s Shaving Brush, Tin Plant. A perennial plant up to 10 inches high that produces a rosette of rough, dark green, thistle-like leaves and thistle-like, rosy-lavender flowers. (Compositae.)
Petalostemon purpurea. Purple Prairie-Clover. A low growing annual plant that forms clumps of dense, dark green foliage. It produces slender stems; pinnate foliage; small, purple, cone-shaped flower heads on the tips of the branches; and small, brown seed pods. (Leguminosae.)
Petunia parviflora. Wild Petunia. This plant forms a cluster of dull green, thick, ovate leaves flat on the ground and produces small, lavender to violet, bell-shaped flowers. (Solanaceae.)
Phacelia congesta. Blue Curls, Wild Heliotrope. These annual plants frow up to 30 inches high. They produce deeply cut, irregularly lobed, light green leaves, and tightly coiled clusters of buds which unfold as the buds develop. The dense, elongeated clusters of very small, purplish-blue flowers are tipped with golden stamen. (Hydrophyllaceae.)
Phacelia patuliflora. Baby Eyes, Baby Blue Eyes, Wild Heliotrope. This small plant produces a low cluster of bright green leaves, deeply cut into large lobes. It produces saucer-shaped, purplish-blue flowers having gold tipped stamen. The flowers are produced in coiled clusters that unfold as the buds develop.
Phlox divaricata. Blue Phlox. Plants of this species are found in Brooks and Hidalgo Counties and produce pale bluish flowers. This is the Sweet William of literature. (Polemoniaceae.)
Phlox Drummondii. Drummond’s Phlox. This plant is found near Goliad and San Antonio and is the parent of all cultivated phlox. It produces bright red flowers.
Phlox glaberrima. Smooth Phlox. This species is found from Hidalgo County to Brooks County and produces bluish-lavender flowers.
Phlox pilosa. Prairie Phlox. This plant is found in Willacy County and produces pink to purplish flowers.
Several annual species of wild phlox are found growing in this region. This plant have dull green, soft, oblong leaves, and clusters of wheel-shaped flowers.
Physalis macrophysa. Lantern Plant. A low growing, perennial plant that reaches a height of about 6 inches. It produces small, dull green, ovate leaves and small, whitish, saucer-shaped flowers which are followed by large "lantern" pods.
Physalis mollis. Low Ground Cherry. These semi-spreading, small, annual plants produce broad-ovate, dull green leaves, pale yellow flowers having dark centers and inflated pods, each containing a yellow berry. (Solanaceae.)
Physostegia virginiana. Dragon’s Head. A slender, upright, annual plant that produces square stems, blue-green, serrated leaves and terminal spikes of paired, pinkish, tubular flowers. Easily transplanted and very ornamental. (Labiatae.)
Polanisia trachysperma. Polanisia. A bushy plant that produces dark green, ovate leaves about 6 inches long and terminal racemes of small, pink, composite flowers. The plant has a garlic odor. (Compositae.)
Polygala alba. White Wings. A plant that produces a tuft of narrow leaves near the ground and wiry stems tipped with small white flowers which are formed by two "wings." (Polygalaceae.)
Polygala ovalifolia. Pink-Wings. This plant produces small, pale pink, pear-shaped flowers that have the appearance of dainty wings on the tips of the wiry branches. Yellow Milkwort belongs to the same species. It is a rather inconspicuous shrub reaching a height of about a foot. It makes a cluster of straight stems producing ovate leaves and bell-shaped, pale yellow flowers.
Polypteris texana. Purple Polypteris. A plant that produces dark green, lanceolate leaves and numerous, small showy heads of deep violet-colored flowers on long stems. (Compositae.)
Portulaca oleraceae. Wild Portulaca. A sprawling plant having dark green, thick ovate leaves and small orange-yellow flowers. (Portulaceae.)
Portulaca pilosa. Moss Rose. A low growing perennial plant that produces very small, gray-green, fleshy, awl-shaped leaves and small, star-shaped deep rose to red flowers which are followed by small, round capsules.
Pyrrhopappus (Sitilias) multicaulis. False-Dandelion. A small lawn plant up to 10 inches in height that produces bright green, deeply cut leaves; pale yellow, dandelion-like flowers and fluffy heads of plumose seed. (Compositae.)
Quincula (Physalis) lobata. Purple Physalis. A small, prostrate, perennial plant that produces small, dull green, broad-ovate leaves and purple flowers which are followed by small "lantern" pods. (Solanaceae.)
Rhynchosia (Dolicholus) americana. One-Leaf Bean. This perennial pea vine produces long, slender stems; kidney-shaped, dark green, rough leaves that are deeply veined; small, pea-shaped, yellow flowers; and short, flat pods containing one to two seeds. (Leguminosae.)
Rhynchosia (Dolicholus) minima. Small-Leaf Bean. A small, trailing vine having dark green, trifoliate leaves, and small, pea-shaped yellow flowers on slender stalks; and curved pods containing two beans.
Phynchosia (Dolicholus) texana. Wild Cowpea. A small, native vine that produces dark green, trifoliate, leathery leaves and small, pea-shaped, yellow flowers which are followed by curved, flat 2-seeded pods.
Rivina humilis. Pigeon Berry. A small, bushy, perennial that produces deep green, ovate leaves, spikes of very small pinkish-white flowers, and spike-like clusters of crowded, bright red berries. (Phytolaccaceae.)
Rouliniella unifaria. Milkweed Vine. This vining plant produces the typical milky sap of the Milkweed Family. The leaves are smaller than those of the common milkweeds and dark green in color. The plant produces a profusion of attractive creamy white, milkweed flowers followed by the typical long seed capsules. The entire plant has a strong odor. (Asclepiadaceae.)
Ruellia. Wild Petunia. These native plants produce heavy, perennial roots and bell-shaped flowers. R. ciliosa var. humilis (Hairy Ruellia) produces a small rosette of woolly leaves and bluish-lavender flower up to two inches long. R. Drummondii (Wild Blue Petunia) produces blue flowers and will grow in dense shade; seed of this variety can be obtained from seed dealers. R. nudiflora (Tall Ruellia) is a smooth, deep green plant up to three feet high that produces dark green leaves and deep lavender flowers about an inch across. Plants of Ruellia will thrive and multiply under cultivation and maintain themselves for years. (Acanthaceae.)
Sabbatia campestris. Pink Texas Star. A slender, annual plant about 6 inches in height that produces light green, lanceolate leaves and solitary, star-shaped bright pink flowers having yellow centers. Especially desirable. (Gentianaceae.)
Samolus alyssoides. Samolus, Water Pimpernel. A small perennial plant up to 6 inches high that produces spatulate leaves and racemes of bell-shaped, small white flowers on the leafless upper branches. Found along the coast. (Primulaceae.)
Schrankia Roemeriana. Shame Vine. A small, creeping plant that produces very small, pinnate, sensitive leaves and fragrant pink "powder puff" blooms having gold tipped stamens. These fluffy balls of bloom are followed by small, prickly pods. This plant has paired briars or small thorns along the stems. (Leguminosae.)
Scutellaria Drummondii. Drummond’s Skull Cap. A small leafy plant that produces dark green, oblong, serrated leaves and small, purplish tubular flowers, which are followed by "skull-cap" seed capsules. (Labiatae.)
Selenia dissecta. Selenia. A sprawling plant having bright green, finely cut leaves, and yellow, bell-shaped flowers on long stems. (Cruciferae.)
Senecio ampullaceus. Squaw Weed, Groundsel Daisy. This annual plant reaches a height of 15 inches and produces broad, toothed, bright green, succulent leaves and clusters of small, fragrant, yellow flowers. (Compositae.)
Senecio glabellus. Lobed Squaw Weed. A small plant about 8 inches in height that produces deeply cut, bright green leaves and bright yellow, daisy-like flowers.
Sesuvium portulacastrum. Sea Purslane, Sesuvium. A prostrate, succulent plant having flat, fleshy, linear leaves and small, purplish flowers. The fleshy stems root at the nodes. (Aizoaceae.)
Sida angustifolia. Common Sida. This plant produces narrow-ovate leaves and flowers 1/2 inch in diameter. (Malvaceae.)
Sida cuneifolia. Common Sida. This species produces broad-ovate leaves and similar flowers.
Sida hastata. Common Sida. Plants of this species produce blunt-ovate leaves.
Sida longipes. Large-Flowered Sida. This spreading plant produces medium green, serrated, narrow-lanceolate leaves and pale yellow flowers an inch in diameter.
Sida procumbens (diffusa). Prostrate Sida. This prostrate plant produces medium green, serrated, ovate-lanceolate leaves and solitary, pale yellow flowers on the tips of the branches.
Several species of perennial Sidas are found in this region. All of them produce serrated leaves and pale yellow, solitary flowers on the tips of the branches.
Siphonoglossa dipterocanthus. Siphonoglossa. This plant consists of many green stems bearing many small oval to ovate leaves and numerous rosy-purple, tubular flowers. (Acanthaceae.)
Siphonoglossa pilosella. False Honeysuckle. A low growing, mint-like plant having ovate to spatulate leaves and small white to lavender tubular flowers.
Sisyranchium sp. Blue-Eyed Grass. These small clumps of grass seldom reach a height of more than a foot. They produce small, purplish-blue flowers. (Iridaceae.)
Solanum elaeagnifolium. Silverleaf Nightshade. A prickly plant up to 18 inches high that produces silvery-green, lanceolate leaves; small, tomato-like, purplish flowers; and large, succulent yellow berries. (Solanaceae.)
Solanum nigrum. Black Nightshade. This plant is mentioned for identification purposes only. It produces deep green, thin, long-ovate leaves; small, tomato-like white flowers; and poisonous black berries.
Solanum rostratum. Buffalo Burr. A prickly plant that produces prickly, lanceolate leaves, yellow flowers and spine covered berries.
Solanum triquetrum. Vine Nightshade. A vining plant that produces small, bright green, lanceolate to ovate leaves; small, tomato-like, white flowers and small, succulent, red berries.
Solanum verbascifolium. Giant Nightshade. A plant up to 3 feet high that produces large, rough, long-ovate, dark green leaves; small, tomato-like, greenish flowers; and large, succulent, black berries.
Solidago serotina. Goldenrod. These annuals produce slender, leafy stalks which are topped by large pyramidal heads of golden-yellow composite flowers. These fall blooming plants are a great annoyance to hay-fever sufferers. S. petiolata (angustifolia) is the Gulf Coast or Salt Marsh species, having fleshy foliage. (Compositae.)
Specularia biflora. Small-Flowered Venus Looking-Glass. This plant differs from the Large-Flowered variety in having leaves that are longer than they are broad, and flowers ranging in color from blue to violet. (Campanulaceae.)
Specularia perfoliata. Large-Flowered Venus Looking-Glass. This is a leafy plant having angular stems, clasping leaves and star-shaped, violet-colored flowers borne in the axils of the upper leaves. The leaves of this species are broader than long.
The Large-Flowered species and the Small-Flowered species are found in this region. They produce plants having angular stems; numerous bright green, stemless, broad ovate clasping leaves and small, star-shaped, bluish flowers.
Sphaeralcea augustifolia. Globe Mallow. This plant reaches a height of about 10 inches and produces flowers which range in color from white to pale pink. (Malvaceae.)
Sphaeralcea coccinea. Red Mallow. This plant reaches a height of about 15 inches and produces flowers ranging in color from deep pink to red.
Sphaeralcea cuspidata. Pompadour Mallow. This plant reaches a height of 4 feet. It produces ashy-green, hairy, heart-shaped leaves and salmon-colored flowers.
Sphaeralcea Lindheimeri. Sand Mallow. A plant up to a foot high that produces gray-green, woolly, ovate leaves, and rosy-salmon, mallow flowers.
Sphaeralcea pedatifida. Copper Mallow. A low growing, bushy plant that seldom reaches a height of more than 12 inches. It produces numerous, finely cut, deep green leaves and small, bright salmon-colored, saucer-shaped flowers.
Small perennial mallow-like plants that produce small, dull green heart-shaped (ovate) leaves; and small mallow flowers.
Stachys Drummondii. Pink Mint. A small, branching plant that produces hairy light green, serrated, ovate leaves and slender spikes of pink, tubular flowers. Not prickly. (Labiatae.)
Stemodia Schottii. Stemodia, Figwort. A low growing plant that produces small, dark green, serrated leaves; terminal clusters of small, tubular, yellow flowers. (Scrophulariaceae.)
Stemodia tomentosa. Silverleaf Stemodia. A small, creeping plant that produces small, gray, woolly leaves on white stems; and very small, tubular, purple flowers.
Suaeda (Dondia) fruticosa. Dondia, Sea-Blite. These seaside plants form dense mats of very small, gray, fleshy, awl-shaped leaves. The flowers are inconspicuous. (Chenopodiaceae.)
Synthlipsis Berlandieri. Carpet-of-Gold. A small annual plant that produces bright green, lobed leaves and small, 4-petaled, yellow flowers. (Cruciferae.)
Synthlipsis speciosa. Carpet-of-Snow. This plant is similar to Carpet-of-Gold except that the flowers are white.
Talinum aurantiacum. Flame-Flower. A small, leafy plant having a thick tap root; slender brittle branches; thick, linear, awl-shaped leaves; and orange to yellow flowers. (Portulaceae.)
Talinum paniculatum. Pink Baby’s Breath. This perennial plant comes from a fleshy root and produces numerous, triangular succulent leaves. The very small, pink flowers are borne in panicles on the ends of the wire-like, upper branches.
Talinum parviflorum. Dwarf Flame-Flower. A low growing, somewhat succulent, brittle, perennial that produces small, fleshy, linear leaves, very small, pale yellow flowers and 3-valved capsules.
Tephrosia (Cracca) Lindheimeri. Shoestring-Pea. This small native pea vine produces small, white margined, pinnate leaves having short hairs underneath; pea-shaped, pink to scarlet flowers (somewhat smaller than sweet peas) which are borne along the long, branching stems; and flat, yellowish, velvety seed pods. (Leguminosae.)
Tephrosia virginiana. Devil’s Shoestring. This prostrate plant has pinnate foliage similar to that of T. Lindheimeri except that it is somewhat woolly; and flowers in varying shades of rose color. The roots of this plant contain rotenone.
Tetragonotheca texana. Perennial Coneflower, Square-Bud Daisy. This upright, perennial branching plant reaches a height of about 18 inches. It produces large, toothed leaves, square buds, and yellow flowers. (Compositae.)
Teucrium cubense. Coast Germander, White Mint. These plants produce white flowers. (Labiatae.)
Teucrium occidentale. Purple Germander. These plants produce velvety leaves and purplish flowers.
Two species of this plant are found in this area. They produce branching plants having square stems, typical of the Mint family; light green, saw-toothed, ovate leaves; and terminal spikes of mint-like flowers.
Thamnosma texana. Dutchman’s Britches. These aromatic plants form low tufts of small, blue-green leaves. They produce tiny, yellow, half-closed flowers which are followed by very small, paired pods resembling Dutchman’s britches. (Rutaceae.)
Tillandsia Baileya. Bailey’s Ball Moss. A parasitic plant found growing in the trees along the Rio Grande. It is a ball of gray moss which produces attractive, long throated, purple flowers. This plant will thrive under cultivation. (Bromeliaceae.)
Tradescantia gigantia. Giant Spiderwort. An upright plant, twelve to eighteen inches high, that has broad, bluish-green leaves and three-petaled, lavender flowers. (Commelinaceae.)
Tradescantia hirsuticaulis. Hairy Spiderwort. This plant produces slightly hairy stems, bright green, grass-like foliage and white to violet-colored flowers.
Tradescantia humilis. Spiderwort, Grass Violet. A tender, native plant (6 inches tall) having an upright habit of growth. It has bright green, succulent stems and small, three-petaled, purple flowers which are borne on the tips of the branches. There is a white flowered, prostrate form, T. fluminensis, which is called Wandering Jew.
Tradescantia micrantha. Stemless Spiderwort. A low growing, almost stemless trailing plant which produces white to violet-colored flowers.
These small, tuberous-rooted, native plants are of value chiefly for use in window boxes or as low border plants. Most of them have dark green, grass-like foliage somewhat resembling that of the Wandering Jew plant, and small, three-petaled flowers that remain on the plants for only one day.
Verbascum Blattaria. Moth Mullein. This is an introduced plant that has become an escape along the Gulf Coast. In the winter it produces a rosette of thin, lanceolate, green leaves. In summer it produces a two to five foot, flowering stalk which bears white to yellow flowers. (Scrophulariaceae.)
Verbascum Thapsus. Common Mullein. This plant consists of a rosette of thick flannel-like, lanceolate leaves, sometimes reaching a length of 15 inches and a 6 to 8 foot stalk covered with small woolly, lanceolate leaves. The upper third of the stalk produces the flowering stalks bearing yellow flowers.
These annual or biennial plants are not found in abundance anywhere in Texas, but a few plants are to be seen in this region.
Verbena ambrosifolia. Western Verbena. A plant that produces dull green, ovate leaves that are broader than long; and large heads of rosy-pink flowers. (Verbenaceae.)
Verbena ciliata. Small Pink Verbena. This plant produces dull green, lobed leaves; and small, pink, flower heads.
Verbena Halei. Small Blue Verbena. A small plant that produces dull green, deeply lobed leaves; and very small, pale blue flower heads.
Verbena officinalis. European Vervain, Slender Vervain. A slender, perennial having square stems, bright green, narrow leaves, and few light blue flowers scattered along tall, slender wiry stems.
Verbena quadrangulata. Gulf Coast Verbena. This is the showiest of our native verbenas. It produces angular stems; dull green, deeply cut leaves; and large heads of deep pink to purplish lavender flowers.
Verbena xutha. Large Flowered Vervain. A slender, perennial that produces square stems; dark green, narrow leaves; and numerous deep blue flowers on thick, wiry stems.
Several species of wild verbenas are found in this region. These prostrate plants are usually perennial and produce dull green, ovate leaves and flat flower heads ranging in color from pale blue to rosy lavender.
Verbesina (Ximenesia) encelioides. Barnyard Daisy, Yellow Top. A bushy annual plant up to 18 inches high that produces large, gray green, ovate leaves and bright yellow flowers. The entire plant is malodorous. (Compositae.)
Verbesina texana. Frostweed, Texas Crownbeard. An annual with large, thick, toothed, lanceolate, light green leaves and heavy clusters of small, pinkish-lavender flowers.
Vigna repens (luteola). Yellow Jack Bean. A low trailing plant that produces dark green, trifoliate leaves and pale yellow, bean flowers. (Leguminosae.)
Viguiera stenoloba. Yellow Broom Daisy. A branching, annual that produces large, rough leaves and yellow flowers on wiry stems. Fall blooming. (Compositae.)
Vincetoxicum biflorum. Star Milkweed. A prostrate, hairy plant that produces heart-shaped leaves and one to two star-shaped, purplish flowers, borne in the axils of the paired leaves. (Asclepiadaceae.)
Vincetoxicum reticulatum. Pearl Milkweed. A vining, hairy plant that produces heart-shaped leaves and clusters of greenish flowers borne on long stalks which come out of the axils of the leaves. The flowers have a pearl-like center.
Waltheria americana. Waltheria. A perennial woolly plant that produces thick, serrated leaves and orange-yellow flowers in axillary masses of green "cotton." (Sterculiaceae.)
Wissadula amplissima. Small-Flowered Velvet Mallow. This plant produces small, heart-shaped leaves and salmon-colored mallow flowers. (Malvaceae.)
Wissadula holosericea. Large-Flowered Velvet Mallow. The ovate leaves are large, thick, dull green and velvety. It has salmon-colored mallow flowers.
Xanthisma texanum. Sleepy Daisy. An annual, upright plant that produces narrow, toothed leaves and waxy, yellow flowers that open only part of the day. (Compositae.)
Zexmenia hispida. Orange Daisy. This perennial plant reaches a height of about 15 inches. It produces numerous stiff branches, rough, hairy leaves and orange-yellow flowers about one-inch in diameter. (Compositae.)
Zornia bracteata. Rabbit’s Ears. This perennial vining plant produces 4-foliate palmate leaves and racemes of yellow, bonnet-shaped flowers followed by 3-to-4-jointed seed pods. (Leguminosae.)
Zornia diphylla. Two-Leaf Rabbit’s Ears. This plant differs from Z. bracteata in producing 2-foliate leaves and horned seed pods.
These perennial vining plants produce palmate leaves and racemes of yellow, bonnet-shaped flowers that are produced between two large bracts, giving them the appearance of rabbit’s ears.
Ornamentals for the Rio Grande Valley