Description
Form: A large, multi-stemmed shrub that can be trained into a tree.
Leaf retention: Evergreen.
Growth rate: Slow. It speeds up slightly after becoming established.
Mature Size: 10-30' (3-9m) high and 5-15' (1.5-4.5m) wide.
Flowers: Small flowers with 5 rounded petals occur in large, flat-topped clusters at branch tips.
Bloom: Winter or spring.
Fruit: Green fleshy fruit become dry, brown capsules that persist on the plant. The capsules contain five dry fruit, each opening to release two winged seeds.
Leaves: Green, leathery, lance-shaped, with finely serrate margins. This plant provides dense shade.
Stems: The bark is gray. New stems are reddish brown. No thorns.
Wildlife: The flowers attract butterflies and bees. The seed attracts birds.
Toxic / Danger: No.
Origin: Arizona and Mexico.

Cultivation and Uses
USDA hardiness zones: 7-10.
Heat tolerant: Yes.
Drought tolerant: Yes.
Sun: Full sun.
Soil: Well draining, deep soil with low organic content, pH 6.1-9.0 (slightly acidic to highly alkaline). This plant is subject to root rot in poorly-drained soil.
Water once established: Monthly. More frequent irrigation results in faster growth.
Prune: In winter, prune to maintain size and shape, or remove the lowest branches after the plant is eight feet high, to train into tree.
Litter: Dried seed capsules.
Propagation: Seed or cuttings.
Uses: Ornamental. This plant can be pruned into a hedge.

Comments
This plant is a member of the Rose family (Rosaceae).

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