Texas Frogfruit can be used as an excellent ground cover and is evergreen in warm years. It is also evergreen in areas protected from frost. It spreads vigorously. Frogfruit generally is a good nectar plant for butterflies. It is an attractive plant rambling over boulders or the edges of hanging baskets. It also can tolerate drought and flooding.
This species is a member of the verbena family (family Verbenaceae), which includes about 75 genera and 3,000 species of herbs, shrubs, and trees, mostly of tropical and warm temperate regions. Among them, teak is a highly prized furniture wood, and Vervain, Lantana, Lippia or Frog Fruit, and Chase Tree or Vitex are grown as ornamentals.
Native Distribution: Southern half of the US to the tropics.
Native Habitat: Anywhere from ditches and roadways to beaches and fields.
Soil Description: Sand, loam, clay, caliche, limestone. Poor drainage and saline soils okay.
Conditions Comments: Tolerates drought and flooding. Will go dormant during hard winters.
Use Ornamental: A great groundcover for full sun and part shade areas, with trailing foliage and charming, mini-verbena-like flowers. Would also do well as a pot plant.
Use Wildlife: Attracts numerous insect pollinators.
Maintenance: Water in dry areas or seasons to maintain a solid cover. Do not mow while blooming, as it can take years to recover.