Desert Yaupon is densely branched evergreen shrub that grows to 4 feet in height. It can be found in various soil types of the Edwards Plateau and South Texas Plains. The leaves have a smooth margin and are teardrop-shaped. They are 1/4 to 1/2 inch long and 1/12 to 1/3 inch wide. The small, greenish flower blooms from February to September, with male and female flowers on seperate plants. The orange to red fruit is eaten by several types of birds and small mammals, including quail, cactus wrens, coyotes and woodrats. The leaves are browsed white-tailed deer. |