Mexican Buckeye

Mexican Buckeye Overview

Scientific Name: Ungnadia speciosa
Common Names: Mexican Buckeye
Native to: Central and Northern Mexico, parts of Texas
Lighting Requirements: Full sun to partial shade
Height: 10–15 feet
Width: 10–12 feet
Winter Look: Deciduous; bare branches in winter with a smooth, gray bark and attractive branching structure
Seasonal Interest: Beautiful, pink to purple flowers in early spring; attractive, palm-like foliage in summer, which turns yellow in fall
Drought Tolerance: High; very drought-tolerant once established
Soil Requirements: Well-drained, moderately fertile soil; tolerates poor soils but prefers loamy or sandy soil
pH Range: 6.0–7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)
Hardiness Zones: USDA Zones 7–9
Deer Resistance: High; deer typically avoid Mexican Buckeye
Attracts: Pollinators (especially bees, which are attracted to the flowers)
Toxicity: Toxic to humans and pets if ingested (seeds and parts of the plant)
Potential Issues: Susceptible to root rot in poorly-drained soils
Notes: Mexican Buckeye is a small, deciduous tree that is known for its striking spring flowers and attractive foliage. It is well-suited to xeriscaping and dry landscapes due to its excellent drought tolerance. The tree has a unique appearance with its palm-like leaves and showy pink flowers. The Mexican Buckeye provides ornamental interest in all seasons, from its spring bloom to its fall foliage.