Common name: Natal Plum
Botanical name: Carissa macrocarpa

The Natal Plum is a shrub that quickly reaches 2'-6' tall and 10' wide. Stems have thorns. The plant produces a milky sap that may cause allergenic reactions for some folks. Leaves are leathery, glossy and dark green. White, fragrant star shaped flowers bloom in spring, followed by egg shaped fruit that turns red when ripe. Fruit tastes like cranberries! This shrub takes little water once it's established and tolerates heat. It's great for barrier hedges.

Common name: Mexican Fan Palm
Botanical name: Washingtonia robusta

The Mexican Fan Palm is a very tall, rapidly growing palm with large, fan-shaped leaves. It has a tropical look, and can grow several feet a year. This species is excellent for larger gardens and lining streets and avenues.

Common name: Big Bend Yucca
Botanical name: Yucca rostrata

This Yucca has blue leaves, a tall narrow trunk, and a spectacular summer display of cream white flowers. It is one of the most attractive tree Yuccas. It slowly forms a trunk to 10' tall. The young are usually unbranched; the older have a few branches. Narrow blue leaves can grow up to 2' long and .5" wide with a sharp term spine. This Yucca prefers full sun or very light shade and rocky, well drained soil. It is susceptible to grubs.Old leaves persist.

Common name: Bougainvillea cultivars
Botanical name: Bougainvillea cvs.

The large amount of flamboyant color on this species creates a wonderful accent in a garden. Varieties can be in bush or vine form; colors vary. Once established, they tend to be carefree. All varieties are susceptible to frost damage. The 'Barbara Karst' variety blooms bright red in full sun; more crimson if in shade. It blooms early and long.

Common name: Texas Honey Mesquite
Botanical name: Prosopis glandulosa

This attractive deciduous tree grows 30' tall and wide. Blooms in spring with pale yellow flowers followed by long, narrow bean pods in summer. Foliage is finely divided and compound, creating light shadows. Branches have 2" long thorns. Bark is reddish brown, rough looking with fissures. Taproots are considered invasive in some areas. It does best in full sun and tolerates most any kind of soil as long as it's not soggy. It is extremely heat and drought tolerant. Wood from this tree is used for furniture and cooking on a grill or open fire for food flavoring. It is also used for bonsai. Thornless varieties available.