Kidneywood
Eysenhardtia texana
Last reviewed: June 2026
Eysenhardtia texana (Kidneywood) is a drought-tolerant native Texas shrub that produces fragrant white flower clusters from March through November, attracting butterflies and bees to xeriscape gardens.
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
96"–180" H × 72"–96" W
Bloom
Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov
Native to
TX
Pollinators
butterflies, bees
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Kidneywood is a native Texas shrub that produces clusters of fragrant white flowers for an exceptionally long blooming period from spring through fall. This drought-tolerant plant grows 8-15 feet tall with a graceful, open branching structure and small compound leaves that turn yellow before dropping in winter.
Growing Kidneywood
Grow Kidneywood in full sun and low water. Mature plants reach 96 to 180 inches tall and spread 72 to 96 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Kidneywood takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Height exceeds typical HOA-friendly range
Wildlife value
The extended blooming period provides nectar for butterflies and bees throughout most of the growing season. The seeds also provide food for birds and small wildlife.
Common questions
- When does Kidneywood bloom in Texas?
- Eysenhardtia texana blooms for an exceptionally long period from March through November, producing clusters of small, fragrant white flowers that are highly attractive to pollinators.
- What pollinators visit Kidneywood flowers?
- Kidneywood attracts both butterflies and bees with its abundant, fragrant white blooms. The long flowering season makes it particularly valuable for supporting pollinator populations throughout much of the growing season.
- How much water does Eysenhardtia texana need?
- Kidneywood is highly drought tolerant once established and thrives with minimal irrigation. This native Texas shrub is well-adapted to arid conditions and low water availability.
- Is Kidneywood HOA-friendly?
- Kidneywood takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Kidneywood? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
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