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Smith, R.W.

Coursetia axillaris

Coursetia axillaris J.M. Coult. & Rose

Texas Babybonnets

Fabaceae (Pea Family)

Synonym(s):

USDA Symbol: coax

USDA Native Status: L48 (N)

Densely branched, thornless shrub produces tiny sweet-pea-shaped flowers that can be white, yellow, or pink. The fruit is a small, reddish pod.

It can adapt to various soils as long as they are well-drained, and is somewhat tolerant of saline soils. Restrict pruning to removing dead branches only. Its informal, irregular shape would complement a naturalistic landscape, where its drought tolerance would also be an asset.

From the Image Gallery

6 photo(s) available in the Image Gallery

Plant Characteristics

Duration: Perennial
Habit: Shrub
Leaf Arrangement: Alternate
Fruit Type: Legume
Size Notes: Up to about 9 feet tall by 12 feet wide.

Bloom Information

Bloom Color: White , Pink , Yellow
Bloom Time: Feb , Mar , Apr , May
Bloom Notes: White, pinkish or yellowish.

Distribution

USA: TX
Native Distribution: South Texas Rio Grande Plains
Native Habitat: Rio Grande Plains in full sun on caliche ridges and in woodlands.

Growing Conditions

Water Use: Low
Light Requirement: Sun
Soil Moisture: Dry
Drought Tolerance: High
Heat Tolerant: yes

Benefit

Conspicuous Flowers: yes
Attracts: Butterflies
Nectar Source: yes

Propagation

Propagation Material: Seeds
Seed Treatment: Soak seed overnight.
Maintenance: Restrict pruning to removal of dead branches.

From the National Organizations Directory

According to the species list provided by Affiliate Organizations, this plant is on display at the following locations:

National Butterfly Center - Mission, TX

Web Reference

Webref 1 - Texas Native Shrubs (2002) Texas A&M University Agriculture Program and Leslie Finical, Dallas Arboretum

Additional resources

USDA: Find Coursetia axillaris in USDA Plants
FNA: Find Coursetia axillaris in the Flora of North America (if available)
Google: Search Google for Coursetia axillaris

Metadata

Record Modified: 2023-01-10
Research By: TWC Staff

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