The Texas Mountain Laurel (Dermatophyllum secundiflorum) is one of the most beloved native evergreen trees in Central Texas, famous for its grape-scented purple flower clusters in early spring. Slow-growing but incredibly tough, it’s a staple of San Antonio landscapes. Alfaro Tree Sales grows Texas Mountain Laurels at our 40-acre Atascosa nursery.
In March–April, Texas Mountain Laurels produce stunning clusters of purple flowers with a distinctive grape or grape-soda fragrance. The scent can carry for yards — it’s one of the first signs of spring in San Antonio.
Two popular SA evergreens with different personalities.
Expected height after planting a multi-trunk specimen (6–10 ft at install).
Water deeply every 1–2 weeks during the first season. Once established, extremely drought-tolerant — overwatering is a bigger risk than underwatering.
Thrives in SA’s alkaline limestone soils. Must have good drainage. No fertilizer needed — they prefer lean conditions.
Very minimal. Prune only to shape or remove dead branches. Can be trained as a single-trunk or multi-stem specimen.
October through March. Handle root ball carefully — Mountain Laurels are sensitive to root disturbance.
Choose your tree at our nursery or by phone. We deliver it to your property.
Machine-dug hole, native soil backfill, deep watering, and mulch ring installed.
Written care instructions plus a 30-day establishment check from our crew.
Slowly — about ½ to 1 foot per year. They’re worth the wait for their evergreen foliage and incredible spring fragrance.
March through April, producing clusters of purple flowers with a distinctive grape or grape-soda scent.
Yes. The bright red seeds (mescal beans) are toxic if ingested. They’re very hard and not appealing to eat, but keep them away from small children.
Rarely. They naturally form a beautiful shape. Only prune to remove dead wood or control size if needed.
October through March. Handle the root ball carefully during transplanting.
We offer Texas Mountain Laurels in various sizes. Field-grown at our nursery in Atascosa. Call (210) 202-4284.
Yes. Professional delivery and planting across the SA metro. Request a free quote.
Yes — their dense evergreen foliage makes them effective for screening when planted in rows 8–10 ft apart. They’re slow to fill in but the result is beautiful and permanent.
