How long does it take for Texas mountain laurel to grow?
2-3 years
ANSWER: Yes, it is normal for Sophora secundiflora (Texas mountain laurel) to grow very slowly for the first 2-3 years. I believe that if you keep the soil somewhat moist and fertilize the shrub in late winter it will begin to show stronger growth next year. It may not bloom for another year of so.
Can mountain laurel be grown in Texas?
As long as you live in the right climate, growing Texas mountain laurels is very easy and rewarding. A desert native, the plant is both heat and drought tolerant, and it actually thrives in poor conditions.
Do hummingbirds like mountain laurel?
This plant attracts hummingbirds, butterflies, and bees (although their honey will be toxic and should be avoided). Protect the delicate fibrous mountain laurel roots with a two-to-six-inch layer of mulch.
How do you grow a mountain laurel tree?
Plant mountain laurel in well-drained, cool, moist, acidic soil in USDA zones 5-9. Good drainage is essential to avoid rot. If drainage is an issue in your garden, consider planting this shrub in a raised bed. Mountain laurel will grow in deep shade to full sun but is happiest in moderate to partial shade.
How do you plant Texas mountain laurel?
Texas mountain laurel prefers alkaline, well-drained rocky soils, including those that contain limestone. They’ll do well in clay, loam, and sand, and will tolerate being planted in or near turf. Choose a planting site in an area that gets full sun.
Is Texas mountain laurel a tree or shrub?
Mescal bean or Texas mountain laurel is an evergreen, usually multi-trunked shrub or small tree ranging from just a few feet tall to more than 30 ft. in height, though its usual height at maturity is 10-15 ft.
What does mountain laurel attract?
Can mountain laurel take full sun?
Mountain laurel will grow in USDA Zones 5 to 9 in deep shade to full sun, but it does best in moderate to partial shade. In deep shade it won’t produce as many flowers and can become spindly. Too-bright sun can cause scorching of the leaves.
What kind of tree is Texas mountain laurel?
Texas mountain laurel is a tough evergreen shrub or small tree native to Mexico and the American Southwest. It is known for its attractive, fragrant flowers and its extreme drought hardiness. Keep reading to learn more about growing Texas mountain laurels in the landscape.
However, if you’re patient, you can grow a Texas mountain laurel from seed. Seeds that fall from the plant can take years to germinate, as they have extremely hard shells. But a few tricks may provide faster results, if you’d like to grow some seedlings for transplant into the garden.
How to care for mountain laurel in Texas?
Thrives in average to lean, loose, fast-draining, slightly alkaline soil with gravel mulch. Water regularly during first few growing seasons to establish the root system. Once established, reduce frequency; tolerates seasonal drought. Apply fertilizer before new growth begins in spring. Prune annually to maintain desired size and form.
Is the Texas mountain laurel toxic to humans?
You will still see Texas mountain laurel referred to as S. secundiflora or C. secundiflora in some places. Lovely as they are, the flowers of Texas mountain laurel are toxic to humans and animals, as are the plant’s seed pods and leaves.