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Rhamnaceae

The green stems of Texas adolphia have branchlets tipped with sharp thorns, making it look very similar to allthorn (Koeberlinia). The stems are evergreen, but the tiny, almost unnoticeable linear leaves are deciduous. Both the fruit and the white flowers, which appear from April to September, are less than 1/4 inch across. Texas adolphia grows in scattered locations in the Trans-Pecos on mountain slopes and foothills, and south into Mexico. The roots smell like anise or licorice and possibly have been used medicinally.

Plant Habit or Use: small shrub

Exposure: sun
partial sun

Flower Color: white

Blooming Period: spring
summer

Fruit Characteristics: 3-celled capsule

Height: to 3 feet

Width: to 5 feet

Plant Character: deciduous

Heat Tolerance: high

Water Requirements:

Soil Requirements: adaptable

USDA Hardiness Zone: 8

Additional Comments: