Sideroxylon lanuginosum (Gum Bumelia)

Also known as Chittamwood. Don't let the humble name fool you — Gum Bumelia is one of Texas's most underappreciated native trees. While spring-blooming showoffs steal the spotlight, this tough, spiny tree quietly fills a critical gap: its clusters of small, sweetly fragrant white flowers open in midsummer, when nectar is scarce and pollinators need it most. Come fall, its dark purple-black berries draw birds in droves. Adaptable to limestone bluffs, clay flats, and rocky woodland edges alike, it asks for almost nothing once established — and gives back plenty. Gum bumelia is a multi-trunked tall shrub or medium-sized tree with spiny stems and branches, especially on the ends of smaller branchlets. The fruit is eaten by birds, and white-tailed deer browse the leaves and fruit. Gum Bumelia has a wide distribution in Texas. It requires little maintenenace. It is drought and cold tolerant and moderate to slow growing. Prefers bright shade to full sun. Leaf litter can be left in beds as mulch. Place out of high traffic areas due to spiny branches. AT A GLANCE Texas native Yes Water use Low, medium Sun exposure Full sun to shade Bloom color White Bloom time Summer Mature height 20-40 ft Attracts Butterflies, birds, small mammals, deer, bees DISTRIBUTION MAPS USDA MAP BONAP MAP Present in state Present in county and native Native to North America, but adventive & escaped in state Not present in state Present and rare, native in county Previously present, now extinct Questionable presence (cross-hatched, regardless of color)