Description
Form: A shrub with a casual shape.
Leaf retention: Deciduous.
Growth rate: Moderate.
Mature Size: 6-10' high.
Flowers: Tiny, tubular, white, crowded on terminal spikes, strongly vanilla scented.
Bloom: Mid winter to fall, especially after rain.
Fruit: Seeds.
Leaves: Small, green, slender, rounded to pointed tips, fragrant.
Stems: Squarish in cross-section. They may have a small spine at the tip. This plant forms a thicket by growing new stems at its stem base.
Wildlife: Attracts bees and butterflies. Browsed by large mammals.
Toxic / Danger: Poisonous to horses, mules, and burros. Possible small spines at stem tips.
Origin: Arizona through Texas and Mexico.

Cultivation and Uses
USDA hardiness zones: 8-11.
Heat tolerant: Yes.
Drought tolerant: Yes.
Sun: Full sun to part shade. Flower production is reduced in part shade.
Water once established: Monthly. Supplemental water improves appearance in hottest months.
Soil: Well-drained, pH 6.1-7.8 (slightly acidic to slightly alkaline).
Prune: Can be shaped into a hedge.
Litter: Moderate.
Propagation: Cuttings taken late spring or early summer. Seed should be planted no more than one-quarter inch deep.
Uses: Ornamental, fragrance garden, stabilizing sand dunes.

Comments
This plant belongs to the Verbena family (Verbenaceae). Another common name is Beebrush. The butterflies are Texan Crescents.

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