Texas Madrone is a rare tree with a beautiful bark color found on limestone hillsides. They are rare in the Austin area. The Madrone is not sold by nurseries because it is difficult to propagate and does not transplant well. They must be found in the wild.
I would like to develop a trail of Madrones, for others to follow and enjoy. Let me know if you see a Madrone, or know more about this beautiful tree.
Petticoat Lane in Westlake Hills – (Near the end of Petticoat Lane on the left. June, 2011)
Stout, crooked branches spread to form a distinct crown. It is a small understory tree, about 20-30 feet.
The purple outer bark exfoliates to reveal a smooth inner bark, with colors from cream to cinnamon.
This Madrone is growing on a limestone hillside on Petticoat Lane among Junipers, Oaks, and native trees and grass.
Dear Roselind,
I am sorry to inform you that the tree on Petticoat is dead. Not sure but I think it was probably last summer’s drought and awful heat.
There are two nice specimens located at the Ladybird Wildflower Center. They are young so not as large as some of the very old ones. I am a painter and would love to know of any Madrones that are around the Austin area.
If you know of any more please contact me. If not then I am off to Marfa.
Thanks,
Jodie
Jodie, thanks for letting me know! So sorry to hear that is has died. It was an old beautiful tree. The summer was really bad – we are seeing lots of Cedar trees that are not coming back – and they are pretty hardy.
I was hoping to find more Madrone specimens and keep a record for people who are interested, but have not found any new trees to add to my blog. Thanks for the tips on the Wildflower Center. Will take some photos of these sometime.
Keep in touch!
Roselind