Zexmenia

A resilient evergreen native Texas subshrub that provides year-round foliage and structure to the landscape. Native across the Chihuahuan Deserts, Edwards Plateau, Gulf Coast Prairies and Marshes, and Southern Texas Plains, Zexmenia (Wedelia acapulcensis var. hispida) thrives in local conditions while supporting the surrounding ecosystem. Its dense, persistent foliage provides year-round thermal cover, privacy screening, and evergreen architectural structure. During spring, summer, and fall, the plant produces yellow flower clusters. Flowering is followed by fruit is a cypsela (pl. cypselae). though technically incorrect, the fruit is often referred to as an achene that add vibrant visual contrast and seasonal interest. It plays a vital ecological role as a larval host plant for Central Texas butterflies, including Bordered Patch. The species provides essential habitat and food, supporting Birds and Butterflies. Thriving in caliche, clay, dry, gravelly, limestone, loam, sand, and well drained, Zexmenia demonstrates outstanding hardiness once established. It requires minimal supplemental water and adapts seamlessly to drought conditions. It features moderate deer resistance.