Chilopsis linearis

Agarita

Agarita is a tough sell; it’s thorny and scraggly. But its many positive characteristics are well worth considering: It’s an evergreen, will thrive both in full sun and part shade, has profuse yellow flowers in early spring following by edible red berries, very deer resistant, and of course extremely drought tolerant. It is quite prickly so do make sure to design this Texas native shrub away from pedestrian ways and any place where folks can stumble upon it. Highly recommended in any heavy deer pressure, Xeriscape landscape designs.
Fun fact: How to collect those delicious, thorn protected berries? Hand gathering will surly end up a tearful and frustrating experience. Put a bag or a small tarp underneath the plant and give it a few good whacks with a stick. The ripest of berries will fall and all that left for you is to devour those wild candies. Agarita berries are an excellent jelly ingredient as well

Agarita Details

  • Common Names: Currant-of-Texas, Wild Currant, Chaparral Berry, Agrito, Algerita
  • Light: Full Sun/Part Shade
  • Height: 3′ – 6′
  • Spacing/Spread: 3′ – 6′
  • Evergreen: Yes.
  • Interest: Spring
  • Color: Yellow flowers, Red fruit.
  • Landscape Companions: Texas sage, Century Plant, Red Yucca, Cherry Sage
  • Texas Native: Yes, plant is Texas native.
  • Warning: thorny foliage!
  • Extra: Deer Resistant.
  • Wildlife habitat: Provides food/shelter for bees, butterflies and birds.

Plant Features

Some notable properties of this plant species…

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