Light shade. Semi-evergreen. Vanilla-scented white flowers appear in spring.
Arroyo Sweetwood was first found by plantsman Lynne Lowery, growing in a dry gravel arroyo near in Nuevo Leon, Mexico. As it is a fairly recent introduction to local horticulture, it may be a bit early to evaluate, but Arroyo Sweetwood has proven fast-growing and vigorous. In fact it reseeds easily in south-central Texas, and has been removed from some natural areas. Big specimens can be seen around Trinity University in San Antonio.
Some tip dieback can be expected in severe freezes (below 15 degrees.) To prune, focus on minimizing the number of dead, damaged, or rubbing branches, and make cuts at a bud or branch. As with any tree, remove no more than 25% of the canopy during any five-year cycle. Leave the upper 2/3 of any tree’s crown uncut to maintain a healthy specimen, never removing more than the lowest third of the tree in a single pruning period.
Mulch with about 2” of woodchips or pine bark wherever possible.
