Sun. Almost evergreen in mild winters, with tiny leaflets and spines on distinctive zigzag branches. Ebony is native to the Rio Grande valley of Texas and had been promoted as an evergreen in south-central Texas for many years, but even well-established specimens were severely damaged or froze to the ground in the freezes of 2021.Â
In San Antonio, training ebony to a treelike form would require patience and, probably, starting the whole process again after every severe freeze; a shrublike form is easier and more realistic. Proper gloves, sleeves, and eye protection are needed to cope with the stipular spines.
A spiny Rio Grande Valley native shrub with dark leaves.
