Cenizo
Leucophyllum frutescens
Cenizo is a gray-leafed evergreen shrub that usually grows 2’-5’, but can reach 8’. It thrives on
neglect once established. Highly drought tolerant. Plant covers itself with purple flowers after a
rain. Green-leaved, white-flowered, and dwarf varieties are available. It can be used as a hedge if
plants are spaced about 3’ apart.
Planting Sites: Cenizo needs full sun. It grows in well-drained sand, loam, clay, caliche, or limestone soils. Susceptible
to cotton root rot if soil remains moist.
Planting Instructions: Dig the hole slightly larger than, but the same depth as, the nursery container. Carefully remove
plant from container and gently loosen any compacted or circling roots around the root ball. Plant at the same depth
as the soil in the container. May add 2-3 inches of mulch but it’s not necessary
Watering Instructions: Water well after planting, using a root stimulator mixed according to directions. To promote
deep roots that will withstand drought, water deeply whenever the soil has dried to a depth of an inch or two. Do not
overwater or fertilize!
Comments: Do not shear! Light pruning is okay. Can be leggy in cultivation. Tip prune to increase density. Highly
deer resistant. Attracts butterflies and is the host plant for the Theona Checkerspot, and Calleta silkmoth.
Planting and care instructions provided by the Lindheimer Chapters of the Native Plant Society of Texas