AGARITA

Agarita is a 3’ – 6’ evergreen shrub, spreading 3’- 5’. The plant makes a
good foundation or hedge shrub. It produces half-inch, yellow, fragrant
flowers in early spring, followed by bright red berries later in spring. The
tart berries are edible and make delicious jam and jelly. Leaves are gray-
green to blue-gray in color and are triangular in shape. The three points
are very sharp. The plant is extremely drought tolerant and a fast grower.
A dwarf variety that stays 3’- 4’ is available.

Planting Sites: Agarita prefers full or part sun and will grow in well-drained sandy, loam, caliche, limestone or clay
soils.

Planting Instructions: Space plants 3’ – 6’ apart. Dig hole slightly larger than, but the same depth as the nursery
container. Carefully remove plant from container and gently loosen any circling roots or compacted soil around the
root ball. Plant at the same depth as the soil in the container. Add 2 to 3 inches of mulch.

Watering Instructions: Water well after planting, using a root stimulator mixed according to directions. For about 3
months, water deeply when top 2 – 3” of soil is dry to promote deep roots that will withstand drought. Skip a
watering after a rainfall of ½” to 1”.

Comments: Agarita forms a thicket that offers habitat for nesting birds and small animals. Birds are also attracted
to its berries. Flowers provide nectar for bees. The plant’s roots can be used to make a yellow dye. Because of its
prickly leaves, the plant is highly deer resistant and can be used as a protective hedge. Do not plant it near
walkways. Pruning is generally not needed or recommended.

Planting and care instructions provided by the Lindheimer Chapters of the Native Plant Society of Texas