TEXAS EBONY Ebano
Pithecellobium ebano - Mimosaceae, Mimosa Family
DESCRIPTION:
Large tree or stunted shrub-, dense,
dark crown, zigzag twigs with paired spines.
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Height: 15-30 feet, up to 40
feet.
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Flowers: Creamy-yellow, fragrant,
elongated spikes, after rainfall.
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Fruit: Thick, woody pods.
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Foliage: Evergreen; dense, dark
green.
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Bark: Dark brown to black.
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Growth rate: Slow.
REQUIREMENTS:
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Sun: Partial shade to full sun;
germinates in full shade.
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Soil: Any.
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Drainage: Prefers well drained.
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Water: Low, drought tolerant.
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Maintenance: Medium; abundant
seed pods cause considerable ground litter.
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Propagation: Scarified seed.
NATIVE HABITAT:
River floodplain and
brush-grasslands.
WILDLIFE USE:
Most valuable for wildlife, cover,
nest sites; rodents collect and store seeds, deer browse leaves, bees use
flowers, seeds eaten by deer, javalinas, wood rats, small mammals.
COMMENTS:
Deep, rich brown heartwood used to
make art objects and small furniture; red seeds used in jewelry; fence posts,
fuel; green seeds cooked and eaten; ripe seeds roasted or popped; shells used as
coffee substitute. Highly prized as a deep-shade tree and ornamental; gorgeous
because of the vibrant dense green foliage and attractive seed pods; may be
trimmed to a beautiful security hedge.
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