Overview

The Texas ebony tree (Pithecellobium flexicaule) is an evergreen native to Texas and northern Mexico belonging in the family Leguminsae. Texas ebony trees are also known as Mexican ebony and false acacia. A hardy tree, it will grow well in USDA planting zones 8, 9, 10 and 11, requiring little care once established. It produces pale yellow to white flowers in late winter through early spring. Propagate a new tree by planting fully ripe seeds.

Step 1

Allow seeds pods to become fully ripe on the tree before planting. The pods will turn brownish-black in color, dry out and break open easily when the seeds are ready for planting. Remove a seedpod from the tree after it has fully dried.

Step 2

Open the seedpod and remove the Texas ebony seeds. Nick the seed with a knife and soak in a container of water for 24 hours.

Step 3

Fill a container with a well-draining organic potting mix when starting seeds in a container. You can also sow seeds directly in a garden, planting at the same depth as you would in a container.

Step 4

Use your finger to make a one-inch hole in the soil in center of the container. Place the seed into the hole and cover with soil. Water the container until it runs out of the bottom.

Step 5

Place the container in an area with full sunlight during the day. Texas ebony trees will sprout best if grown in a warm, bright area.

Step 6

Water the container or planting site regularly to keep the soil moist until germination, which can take up to two months. Continue to water the seedling two to three times per week, until it begins to establish. Mature Texas ebony trees are drought tolerant and require little tending.

Step 7

Transplant the tree into a garden once its root system is established, which can take approximately six months after germination. Space trees 20 to 30 feet apart.