Texas Mountain Laurel (Calia secundiflora)

Texas Mountain Laurel – Fragrant Purple Flowers and Evergreen Foliage

Calia secundiflora (syn. Sophora secundiflora), known as Texas Mountain Laurel or Mescal Bean, is a slow-growing, evergreen shrub or small tree native to the Texas Hill Country and northern Mexico. In early spring, it produces dense, cascading clusters of highly fragrant, violet-blue flowers that smell like grape soda. The leathery, compound leaves are dark green and glossy. The bright red seeds are toxic. It thrives in full sun, well-drained, alkaline soils, and is extremely drought-tolerant.

Taxonomic Details