Kidneywood is a deciduous shrub or small tree native to the southwestern United States and Mexico. It is known for its fragrant white flowers and ability to attract pollinators. Here are the ideal growing conditions:

1. Sunlight

• Thrives in full sun, although it can tolerate partial shade. For best growth and flowering, provide at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily.

2. Soil

• Prefers well-drained soil, particularly sandy, gravelly, or loamy types. It can tolerate poor, rocky soils and is often found in dry, arid regions. Good drainage is key, as it does not do well in waterlogged or clay-heavy soils.

3. Watering

• Drought-tolerant once established. Water regularly during the first growing season to help establish a strong root system, but afterward, it can survive on minimal supplemental watering, relying mostly on natural rainfall. Overwatering should be avoided, as it prefers dry conditions.

4. Temperature

• Adapted to hot, arid climates and can tolerate extreme desert heat. It is also moderately cold-hardy, handling temperatures down to 15-20°F (-9°C to -6°C). It is well-suited to USDA zones 7-10.

5. Wildlife Attractor

• The fragrant white flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. Birds may also use the shrub for shelter. It is a great plant for supporting local ecosystems in arid regions.

6. Blooming

• Blooms from late spring through summer, producing spikes of small, white flowers. These flowers are fragrant and add ornamental value to gardens and landscapes.

7. Special Considerations

• Nitrogen-fixing plant, which means it improves soil quality by adding nitrogen back into the soil, making it beneficial for surrounding plants.
• Grows as a shrub or small tree, typically reaching 6-15 feet in height and spreading about 4-10 feet wide. It has a loose, open growth habit and can be used as a screening plant or in a wildlife garden.
• Works well in xeriscaping and other low-water-use landscapes due to its drought tolerance.

Eysenhardtia orthocarpa is a hardy, drought-tolerant plant that requires minimal care and provides ecological benefits, including nitrogen fixation and pollinator support. Its fragrant flowers and adaptability make it a great addition to arid and semi-arid landscapes.