Spiny Bumelia can be found in limestone or gypseous soils of the Ewards Plateau and South Texas Plains. It is a shrub or irregularly shaped tree growing to a height of 60 feet. The leaves are wedge-shaped, 1-3 inches long and 1/2 to 1 inch wide. The small white flowers bloom from April to June. Spiny Bumelia sets fruit in September and October with purplish-black drupes. The fruits are readily eaten by birds, small mammals and white-tailed deer. The leaves are browsed by deer and cattle and the wood is used for tool handles and cabinetmaking. |