Tree & Shrub Field GuideTree & Shrub Field GuideHarris County Flood Control District

2004 Edition

Harris County Flood Control District

2004 Edition

www.hcfcd.org

LegendTo help with quicker assessment of vegetation identification, needs and locations, the symbols below that areappropriate for each species will be located in the middle section of each page in this book. All information is anestimate and should always be verified.

Legend

Sun Needs

IndicatesGrows Best in Full Sun

IndicatesGrows Best in Partial Sun or Partial Shade

IndicatesGrows Best in Shaded Areas

County Location Zone

IndicatesGrows Countywide

IndicatesGrows Mostly in ZONE 1

Water Needs

IndicatesLow Water Needs

IndicatesMedium Water Needs

IndicatesHigh Water Needs

OR

Slope Location

IndicatesTop of Bank

IndicatesMid Slope toTop of Bank

IndicatesToe toMid SlopeIndicates

Grows Mostly in ZONE 2

DescriptionAn attractive shrub with clusters of colorful berry-likedrupes in late summer and fall.

LocationAlmost county wide, but most common in pinewoodsarea of northern Harris County.

Leaves3-8 inches long and 2-4 inches broad. Soft andunpleasantly aromatic.

FruitLavender-purple or rose; in masses along the stems.

SpatialMid slope to top bank.

RemarksLeaves droop quickly in dry weather.Many birds and mammals eat the fruits.

Lifespan: 20-30 years.

(Callicarpa americana)American BeautyberryAmerican Beautyberry

DescriptionAn evergreen tree, usually to about 30-40 ft. in ourarea, with short, often crooked branches.

LocationPrimarily in north Harris County, in sandy soils andnear waterways.

LeavesStiff, leathery and variable, about 2-4 inches long andhalf that wide. Some are simple, but others may bestrikingly undulate with sharp spines.

FruitAbout 1/3 inch in diameter, green, then brightly red.

SpatialTop bank

RemarksA favorite Christmas decoration. About one in ten arefemale, fruiting trees.

Lifespan: 150-200 years.

(Ilex opaca)American HollyAmerican Holly

DescriptionTree to 30 ft., often with a leaning trunk. The trunk isfrequently fluted and has patches of bluish lichen.

LocationIn northern part of Harris County near streams and inlow woods. Sun or shade.

LeavesTo 3 inches long and 1-1/2 inches wide. Finely serrateon margins. Elm-like, but tree is in Birch Family.

FruitDangling clusters of bracts resembling hops, 3-4 incheslong, containing small nutlets.

SpatialTop bank.

RemarksVery tough, muscular wood.

Lifespan: 100-150 years.

(Carpinus caroliniana)American HornbeamAmerican Hornbeam

DescriptionTree to 100 ft. or more, often with woody growths fromroots called “knees”.

LocationCounty wide. Along streamsides and in wet places.Sometimes in standing water.

LeavesFern-like, light green, turning brown in fall.

FruitA round, closed cone about 1 inch in diameter.

SpatialOften at toes or even in the stream or pond.

RemarksA handsome tree. One of the few trees that can growin standing water year around.

Lifespan: More than 1,000 years.

(Taxodium distichum)Bald CypressBald Cypress

DescriptionTree with pendulous branches. Growsuniversally at streamsides and in othersunny wet places.

LocationCounty wide

Leaves3-6 inches long. Slender and drooping.

FruitSlender, cone-like structure with numerous capsules.These release tiny seeds borne by fine white fluff.

SpatialAt and near toes.

RemarksThe most common tree at stream banks.

Lifespan: 60-80 years.

(Salix nigra)Black WillowBlack Willow

DescriptionA massive vine with yellowish-green foliage.

LocationMostly in northern Harris County, where it coversshrubs and small trees near streams.

LeavesAbout 1-1/2 to 5 inches long and 1-3 inches wide.Light yellowish green.

FruitClusters of small pendants resembling ear-drops. Lightbrown, turning darker.

SpatialMid slope to top bank.

RemarksA problem for floodwater conveyance, as the massesof vines collect debris. They can also kill small treesby covering their foliage.

Lifespan: 15-20 years.

(Brunnichia cirrhosa)Buckwheat VineBuckwheat Vine

DescriptionA shrub or small tree growing in sunny, wet places;often in standing water.

LocationCounty wide; more prevalent in northern and easternHarris County.

Leaves3-7 inches long, about half as wide. Soft, and somewhatdrooping.

FruitA ball of brown nutlets, about 1 inch across.

SpatialToes to mid slope.

RemarksRound white heads of flowers are attractive in summer.

Lifespan: 20-30 years.

(Cephalanthus occidentalis)ButtonbushButtonbush

DescriptionA small evergreen tree to about 40 ft. Leaves Arearomatic and leathery.

LocationNorthern parts of Harris County.

LeavesDark green, 2-4 inches long, half as wide. some havesmall teeth. Smell like marischino cherries whencrushed.

FruitA small black drupe.

SpatialTop bank in sun or partial shade.

RemarksSomewhat resembles Red Bay, but leaves containpoisonous prussic acid.

Lifespan: 60-80 years.

(Prunus caroliniana)Cherry LaurelCherry Laurel

DescriptionA non-native shrub or small tree to 15 ft., often withmultiple trunks.

LocationCounty wide, especially in pinewoods area.

Leaves1-2 inches long, 1/2 to 1 inch wide. Soft and light green.

FruitBluish drupes in dangling clusters.

SpatialMid slope to top bank. Sometimes near toes.

RemarksNaturalized widely. Multiple trunks and branches catchdebris, making this an undesirable plant along streams.

Lifespan: 30-40 years.

(Ligustrum sinense)Chinese PrivetChinese Privet

DescriptionA very fast-growing imported tree to about 30 ft.Agressive and invasive, often crowding out native flora.

LocationCounty-wide.

LeavesAbout 1-3 inches long and wide, with acuminate(pointed) tips. Very colorful in fall.

FruitA three-lobed capsule breaking open in fall to reveal3 white, waxy seeds.

SpatialMid slope to top bank. Can grow for long periods instanding water.

RemarksA real “problem” tree. Should be retained only whenno other tree is nearby.

Lifespan: 60-80 years.

(Sapium sebiferum)Chinese TallowChinese Tallow

DescriptionTree to 100 ft. with a large trunk.

LocationNear water. County wide.

Leaves3-7 inches long and broad. Somewhat heart-shaped.Leaves swing back-and-forth in a breeze.

FruitSmall capsules that open in late spring and producegreat amounts of cottony fuzz carrying tiny seeds.

SpatialFrom near toes to top bank.

RemarksVery fast growing, water-loving tree.

Lifespan: 80-100 years.

(Populus deltoides)CottonwoodCottonwood

DescriptionA tall, weedy shrub with weak branches growing inrich, moist soil.

LocationCounty wide.

LeavesCompound, from 4-12 inches long, with 5-7 (sometimesto 11) leaflets.

FruitThis plant is characterized by large heads of tiny whiteflowers in May, followed by many purple-black, berry-like drupes in summer.

SpatialMid slope to top bank.

RemarksFlowers and fruits are used in wines, confections andjellies.

Lifespan: 80-100 years.

(Sambucus canadensis)ElderberryElderberry

DescriptionThree species – American, Cedar, and Winged Elms– are common near Harris County streams. AmericanElm grows very large; Cedar elm has scaly bark, andWinged elm has corky “wings” along its twigs.

LocationCounty wide, along streams and in nearby woods.

LeavesAs illustrated. All have finely serrated leaves.

FruitElms have small winged seeds called samaras.

SpatialMid slope to top bank.

RemarksAll three elms are found near our waterways.

Lifespan: 150-200 years.

(Ulmus species)ElmsElms

DescriptionSpreading, round-topped tree to 60 ft. or more, withdark green, compound leaves.

LocationCounty wide, especially near streams and in wet places.

LeavesCompound, 8-12 inches long, usually having 7 leaflets,each 2-6 inches long.

FruitProminent clusters of winged seeds, lightbrown at maturity, then turning darker

SpatialMid slope to top bank. Often near toes.

RemarksWater loving, fast growing tree.

Lifespan: 80-100 years.

(Fraxinus pennsylvanica)Green AshGreen Ash

DescriptionSomewhat evergreen tree to 60 ft.with wide-spreadingcrown and low branches.

LocationNative in south Harris County. Much planted in otherareas.

LeavesDark green and leathery, 2-5 inches long.Variable in shape.

FruitSlender acorn to 1/2 inch long.

SpatialTop bank

RemarksFoliage is renewed in spring.

Lifespan: 300-400 years.

(Quercus virginiana)Live OakLive Oak

DescriptionTree to well over 100 ft. The common pine in our area.Often with very straight trunks.

LocationNorthern and eastern Harris County.

Leaves5-10 inch long needles, usually in bundles of 3,sometimes 2.

FruitCones 3-5 inches long with small winged seeds beneaththe scales.

SpatialTop bank; sometimes mid slopes. Common in flatwoods.

RemarksThis is the dominant tree in northern Harris County,lifting its tops above all others.

Lifespan: 100-150 years.

(Pinus taeda)Loblolly PineLoblolly Pine

DescriptionLarge tree with dense compound foliage.Can reach 100 + ft. with a spreading crown.

LocationNear streams and in flat woods; most prominent insouthern and western parts of Harris County. Widelyplanted elsewhere.

LeavesCompound, with 9-17 lance-shaped leaflets.

Fruit1-1/2 inches to 2-1/2 inches in native pecans.Much larger in hybrids.

SpatialTop bank.

RemarksTexas’ State Tree. Late to leaf out and early to dropfoliage in fall.

Lifespan: 150-200 years.

(Carya illinoensis)PecanPecan

DescriptionEvergreen or persistent-leaved tree with an averageheight of 15-20 ft.

LocationIn northern and eastern Harris County.Mostly in deep, sandy soils.

LeavesCompound, with 9-17 lance- shaped leaflets. 3-4 incheslong, 1 to 1-1/2 inches broad. Very fragrant. Oftencovered with galls.

FruitSmall green, then blue-black drupes.

SpatialTop bank.

RemarksLeaves are used for spicing food. Sometimes thesesmall trees form thickets.

Lifespan: 80-100 years.

(Persea borbonia)Red BayRed Bay

DescriptionWell-known native tree to 40 ft. or more, with thick,evergreen foliage.

LocationCounty wide, and also much planted.

LeavesScale-like, finely divided foliage.

FruitTightly appressed cones, about 1/2 inch in diameter;usually called “berries.”

SpatialMid slope to top bank.

RemarksVery slow growing tree. Sometimes in colonies, asalong Cedar Bayou.

Lifespan: 150-200 years.

(Juniperus virginiana)Red CedarRed Cedar

DescriptionUsually a small tree to 30 ft in our area, with a broadtop and large leaves.

LocationIn rich woods, especially near streams, and mostcommon in northern Harris County.

Leaves3-9 inches across, with a rough surface. Usually heart-shaped, but often with deep lobes.

FruitFemale trees bear blackberry-like edible fruit in May.

SpatialTop bank, in sun or partial shade.

RemarksThe fruits are eagerly eaten by birds and mammals,but a majority of trees are male.

Lifespan: 80-100 years.

(Morus rubra)Red MulberryRed Mulberry

DescriptionAn attractive tree with somewhat pendulous branches,growing at streamsides. Can reach 90 ft., but usuallymuch smaller. Bark peels in reddish strips.

LocationIn northern and western Harris County. Sun or partialshade.

Leaves1-3 inches long, 2 inches wide. Fine serration alongedges.

FruitSmall cone-like structure enclosing tiny seeds, followingcatkins that persist fall and winter.

SpatialFrom toes to mid slope.

RemarksGood erosion control tree with extensive, fine roots.

Lifespan: 80-100 years.

(Betula nigra)River BirchRiver Birch

DescriptionTree to 80 ft. with a rounded head.

LocationGenerally in the pinewoods sections of Harris County.

LeavesOften broad and 3-lobed on lower branches, and deeplymultiple-lobed on upper limbs. Weak spines at lobetips. Blades up to 7 inches long.

FruitAcorn to 1/2 inch long.

SpatialTop Bank.

RemarksOften straight-trunked with light blue lichen rings onthe bark.

Lifespan: 150-200 years.

(Quercus falcata)Southern Red OakSouthern Red Oak

DescriptionTree with spreading top, usually about 40-50 ft. in ourregion, but can be considerably taller. Dense foliage.

LocationCounty wide. Sun or semi-shade.

LeavesUsually lance-shaped, 2-4 inches long, 1-2 incheswide. Often yellowish and covered with galls in latesummer.

FruitA small drupe, about 1/4 inch in diameter.First green, then orange, then black.

SpatialMid slope to top bank.

RemarksOne of the most common trees in our area.

Lifespan: 80-100 years.

(Celtis laevigata)Sugar HackberrySugar Hackberry

DescriptionTall, fast-growing tree to 100 ft. or more.Starry leaves make dense shade.

LocationCounty wide.

Leaves5-lobed , about 5-7 inches long and wide.

FruitA spiny ball with many small round seeds.

SpatialMid slope to top bank. Sometimes near toes.

RemarksLeaves very colorful in autumn. Some trees havecorky wings on twigs.

Lifespan: 150-200 years.

(Liquidambar styraciflua)SweetgumSweetgum

DescriptionBig tree to 100 ft. and more. Large leaves, peelingbark and white trunk are distinctive.

LocationCounty wide, but uncommon in southern Harris County.Sun or semi-shade.

LeavesLarge, toothed leaves from 4 inches to 12 inches longand broad.

FruitRounded balls about 1 inch inch across, green, thenbrown, with many tiny seeds.

SpatialMid slope, top bank, and often near toes.

RemarksGrows to largest size of any deciduous tree in U. S.Older trees show more white trunk.

Lifespan: 200-300 years.

(Platanus occidentalis)SycamoreSycamore

DescriptionRapid-growing tree resembling pecan, but much morecommon in northern and eastern Harris County. Hasinedible nut.

LocationWithin the pinewoods region, in wet and even boggyareas. (“Hickory Bogs”)

Leaves9-15 inch-long compound leaves, containing 7-15 leaflets.

FruitShallow-winged and flattened, about 1-1/2 inches wide.Very bitter.

SpatialTop bank in wet areas; sometimes mid slope.

RemarksMore tendency to lean than pecan, and more tolerantof shade.

Lifespan: 100-150 years.

(Carya aquatica)Water HickoryWater Hickory

DescriptionTree 60-80 ft. tall or more, often withmassive branches.

LocationThroughout Harris County, particularlynorthern half. Along streams and in moist woods.

Leaves2-4 inches long, 1-2 inches wide. Usually paddleshaped, but sometimes lobed.

FruitAcorn 1/4 to 1/2 inches long, light brownwhen ripe.

SpatialMid slope to top bank. Shade or sun.

RemarksVery common, fast-growing oak.

Lifespan: 150-200 years.

(Quercus nigra)Water OakWater Oak

DescriptionDense evergreen shrub or small tree with aromatic foliage.

LocationMost common in pinewoods areas of Harris County,near water.

Leaves2-4 inches long, about 1/2 inch wide. Dark green onupper surface; lighter beneath.

FruitWaxy, bluish-colored drupes about 1/8 inch in diameteron female plants.

SpatialMid slope to top bank. Sometimes at water’s edgearound ponds.

RemarksThe leaves are used to spice food. Waxy fruits wereonce used in candlemaking.

Lifespan: 80-100 years.

(Myrica cerifera)Wax MyrtleWax Myrtle

DescriptionTall tree to 100 ft. Leaves slender and willow-like.

LocationThroughout Harris County, particularly northern andeastern parts, in low woods.

Leaves2-5 inches long, 1/2 to 1 inch wide.

FruitAcorn about 1/2 inch long, often striped.

SpatialMid slope to top bank. Shade or sun.

RemarksFast-growing oak. Sometimes hybridizeswith Water Oak or Live Oak.

Lifespan: 150-200 years.

(Quercus phellos)Willow OakWillow Oak

DescriptionSmall tree to 40 ft., usually less. The bark is shreddy,leading to the name, “wooly.”

LocationMostly northern Harris County, in wet pine woods.Sun or shade.

Leaves2-4 inches long, about 2 inches wide. Finely serrateon margin.

FruitHop-like clusters containing small nutlets.

SpatialTop bank.

RemarksSimilar to American Hornbeam, except for Shreddy bark.Very tough wood.

Lifespan: 100-150 years.

(Ostrya virginiana)Wooly Hop-HornbeamWooly Hop-Hornbeam

DescriptionEvergreen shrub or small tree, often with multipletrunks. Females have red “berries.”

LocationThe most common understory tree throughout HarrisCounty. Sun or shade.

LeavesEvergreen, leathery, and wavy-serrate on margin.

FruitA round drupe, first green, then shiny red.

SpatialMid slope and top bank. Ubiquitous.

RemarksLeaves produced a sacred drink for Indians. Much-used in landscapes for evergreen foliage and redfruits.

Lifespan: 80-100 years.

(Ilex vomitoria)YauponYaupon

Summer 2004

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