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Graythorn

Ziziphus Obtusifolia

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Overview

Graythorn, or Ziziphus obtusifolia, is a resilient deciduous shrub native to southwestern U.S. landscapes. It typically reaches 3-8 feet in height, with a similar spread, boasting small green leaves and sharp thorns. In spring, it presents inconspicuous yellow flowers, followed by edible red berries in summer. It thrives in full sun, adapts to various soils, and is drought-tolerant, making it an excellent low-maintenance choice for xeriscape designs.

Sun FullWater Low, Very LowZones 8–11Type ShrubClimate Arid, Subtropical
Graythorn (Ziziphus Obtusifolia) — white flowers in the garden
Graythorn (Ziziphus Obtusifolia) — is a resilient shrub native to the southwestern United States and parts of MexicoGraythorn (Ziziphus Obtusifolia) — Planting should be in full sun to ensure vigorous growthGraythorn (Ziziphus Obtusifolia) — It typically reaches 3-8 feet in height, with a similar spread, boasting small green leaves and sharp thornsGraythorn (Ziziphus Obtusifolia) — It typically reaches a mature height of 3 to 8 feetGraythorn (Ziziphus Obtusifolia) — This hardy species is an excellent choice for xeriscapingGraythorn (Ziziphus Obtusifolia) — routine pruning can help maintain its shape+33

Culture

Sun
Full
Water
Low, Very Low
USDA zones
8–11

Shape & size

Mature height
6–8 Ft.
Mature width
6–8 Ft.

Classification

Type
Shrub
Family
Rhamnaceae
Climate
Arid, Subtropical

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Photos (40)

Graythorn (Ziziphus Obtusifolia) — white flowers in the garden
Graythorn (Ziziphus Obtusifolia) — is a resilient shrub native to the southwestern United States and parts of Mexico
Graythorn (Ziziphus Obtusifolia) — Planting should be in full sun to ensure vigorous growth
Graythorn (Ziziphus Obtusifolia) — It typically reaches 3-8 feet in height, with a similar spread, boasting small green leaves and sharp thorns
Graythorn (Ziziphus Obtusifolia) — It typically reaches a mature height of 3 to 8 feet
Graythorn (Ziziphus Obtusifolia) — This hardy species is an excellent choice for xeriscaping
Graythorn (Ziziphus Obtusifolia) — routine pruning can help maintain its shape
Graythorn (Ziziphus Obtusifolia) — In spring, it presents inconspicuous yellow flowers, followed by edible red berries in summer
Graythorn (Ziziphus Obtusifolia) — from well-drained sandy loams to clay
Graythorn (Ziziphus Obtusifolia) — making it an excellent low-maintenance choice for xeriscape designs
Graythorn (Ziziphus Obtusifolia) — due to its drought-tolerant nature and adaptability to a range of soil types
Graythorn (Ziziphus Obtusifolia) — and its thicket-like growth offers excellent cover
Graythorn (Ziziphus Obtusifolia) — scientifically known as Ziziphus obtusifolia
Graythorn (Ziziphus Obtusifolia) — it is the plant's complex
Graythorn (Ziziphus Obtusifolia) — leathery leaves that have a rich
Graythorn (Ziziphus Obtusifolia) — and promote denser foliage to enhance its use as a privacy screen or a natural barrier in the landscape design
Graythorn (Ziziphus Obtusifolia) — Graythorn, or Ziziphus obtusifolia, is a resilient deciduous shrub native to southwestern U.S
Graythorn (Ziziphus Obtusifolia) — During the spring, inconspicuous yellow-green flowers appear, which are followed by small, edible fruit
Graythorn (Ziziphus Obtusifolia) — the Graythorn's fruit serves as a food source for various bird species
Graythorn (Ziziphus Obtusifolia) — When working with this species, gloves and long sleeves are advised due to its thorny nature
Ziziphus Obtusifolia
Ziziphus Obtusifolia
Ziziphus Obtusifolia
Ziziphus Obtusifolia
Photographs by 3 contributors

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