Anacahuita
Cordia boissieri
Boissieri
About this plant
Cordia boissieri, commonly called Anacahuita, is a small tree or large shrub known for its attractive white flowers and rough, gray bark. It is native to parts of Texas and Mexico and is valued for its drought tolerance and ornamental flowers. The tree produces small fruits that attract wildlife and is often used in landscaping for shade and decoration.
Taxonomy
- Genus
- Cordia
- Family
- Boraginaceae
- Higher classification
- Boraginales
- Plant type
- Tree
- Lifespan
- Perennial
Origin & Distribution
- Native region
- Texas, Mexico
- Distribution
- Native to Texas (USA) and northeastern Mexico; cultivated in similar warm, dry regions.
Care
- Light preference
- Full sun
- Suitable locations
- Outdoor, Balcony, Greenhouse
- Preferred window facing
- South-facing, West-facing
- Watering frequency
- Moderate
- Watering interval
- 7–14 days
- Humidity
- Normal
- Minimum
- -10 °C
- Maximum
- 40 °C
- Optimal
- 152 °C
- USDA hardiness zones
- 8 6
- Soil pH
- 6.07.5
- Soil type
- well-draining loam, sandy soil
Watering. Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. It is drought tolerant once established but benefits from occasional watering during dry periods.
Fertilizing. Fertilize once a year in early spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer to support healthy growth. Avoid over-fertilizing, which can cause excessive leaf growth at the expense of flowers.
Cordia boissieri is a tough plant that grows well in sunny, dry conditions. It needs little water once established and is generally low maintenance. Overwatering or poor drainage can cause root problems, so well-draining soil is important.
Propagation
- Propagation methods
- Seeds, Cuttings
- Care difficulty
- Easy
Ornamental features
- Flowering
- Yes
- Flowering period
- spring
Showy white flowers, rough gray bark, and attractive green foliage. Produces small orange fruits that attract birds.
Toxicity & Safety
- Toxic to humans
- Non-toxic
- Toxic to pets
- Non-toxic
- Weed potential
- Not considered a weed
Non-toxic to humans and pets; safe to have around children and animals.
Allergy information
- Allergy risk
- Low
- Allergy triggers
- Pollen
- Pollen level
- Moderate
Cordia boissieri may cause mild allergic reactions in sensitive individuals, mainly due to its pollen. People with pollen allergies should avoid close contact during its flowering period to reduce symptoms like sneezing or itchy eyes.
Common problems
Overwatering can lead to root rot. Infrequent watering during dry spells may cause leaf drop. Pests are usually not a major problem.
Uses
Used as an ornamental tree for shade and decoration in gardens and landscapes. Its flowers and fruits attract wildlife.
Notes
Prune lightly after flowering to maintain shape and remove dead branches. It tolerates pruning well. Repotting is rarely needed as it is usually grown outdoors.