Ripe Agarita Berries
by CMG Betty J
When the big freeze of February 2021 hit the Texas Hill Country, the native shrub, Agarita, Berberis trifoliolata, was setting buds for its early spring bloom. As a result of the extended freezing temperatures, none of the buds survived. In 2021 there were no flowers or berries on the agarita. Monitoring these same bushes this year has revealed a very successful rebound. These photos were taken this spring.
Agarita
Agarita is medium-sized evergreen shrub that is found in rocky terrain, in pastures, and in thickets. Its dark green leaves are compound, having three skinny leaflets with sharp points on the ends. The fragrant flowers are yellow and bloom in clusters from February through April and are some of the earliest nectar sources for bees. Abundant red berries appear in May and June and provide a good food source for birds and small mammals. Since the leaves are so prickly, deer seldom browse Agarita, yet the thick coverage they provide makes good cover for smaller mammals. Agarita wood is bright yellow and can be used to make dye.