Texas Sage / Cenizo

A native plant from northern Mexico's Chihuahuan desert, growing naturally as far north as Austin, Cenizo is popular in landscapes across DFW with its waves of new, fresh blooms that attract butterflies after rain showers. Its branches offer hiding places for birds who may want to come visit your full-sun landscape but would prefer a shady place to hide from hawks and other predators.   

Use this plant in a full-sun location, preferably on a slope so that the soil can drain and roots do not sit in soggy soil, to add an evergreen visual barrier to block a view, or add silvery foliage to the garden in winter. Although a host plant for the Theona Checkerspot, the butterfly is rarely seen as far north as DFW (though it has been spotted). Learn more from Native Plant Society and learn more from Native Gardeners about the Compact, Convent, or full-size Green varieties.

 
Plant Size:   Gallon
Scientific Name:   Leucophyllum frutescens
Height:  4' - 8' (depending on variety)
Spread: 4' - 6' (depending on variety)
Light: Full Sun, Afternoon Sun