I've been in love with a tree before I knew what it was. While tromping around a deer lease north of Bandara many, many years ago I would go out of my way to look at a beautiful tree with wonder. I was thrilled to finally learn what it was, a Texas Madrone, but alas, being an almost impossible tree to transplant and difficult to grow, it was never to be a part of my yard.
About 20 years ago when the new Hwy. 16 was being built an amazing number of Madrone trees, maybe 10 or so, were exposed when the brush and trees were cleared for the new road. Again I admired them. Yesterday, Shirley and I were on our way to some thrift stores in Lakehills and we decided to watch and see if any of them survived. Yea, we spotted one! According to the link below they are a slow growing tree so judging from the size this tree must be over a hundred years old.
The smooth red bark and twisted branches are incredibly lovely. This tree had a few dead limbs, but that it has survived the recent drought is a testimony to its tenacity.
It has cream flowers in the spring and red fruit in the fall. Here is the beginning of that fruit.
Seeing this tree was the highlight of our little trip and I wanted to share these photos with you. I read in one of Mara's posts that she has them on her property. Mara, how fortunate you are! Though I can't grow it I'm just glad it exists. Long live the Texas Madrone!
Here is a link that might be useful: More about Texas Madrones ...
rcnaylor
PKponder TX Z7B
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roselee z8b S.W. TexasOriginal Author
wantonamara Z8 CenTex
roselee z8b S.W. TexasOriginal Author
wantonamara Z8 CenTex
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