SafePlants

Forestiera angustifolia

Also known as Narrow-leaf forestiera, Tanglewood, Desert olive, Texas swamp-privet, Eastern swamp privet, Texas forestiera, or simply swampprivet, Forestiera angustifolia is a versatile plant found in various habitats.

Considerations for Pets

• This plant is a shrub or small tree.
• The leaves have very slightly toothed margins.
• Wildlife feed on the fruit.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Forestiera angustifolia Torr.
• Family: Oleaceae (Olive family)
• Genus: Forestiera Poir.
• Synonyms:
  • Forestiera puberula Eastw.
  • Forestiera texana Cory.
  • Forestiera acuminata

Distribution and Habitat

• Native to Texas, northeastern Mexico, and parts of the central and southeastern United States.
• Found in wet river banks, by ponds and swamps, and in flood plains.
• Ranges from South Carolina to Florida, west to Texas and Kansas, and as far north as Illinois and Indiana.

Morphological Characteristics

• Often shrubby in the wild but can be grown as a small tree, reaching 25-35 feet tall.
• Leaves are glossy-green and pointed-oval.
• Can be a multi-trunked large shrub or small tree.
• Leaves are opposite and simple.
• Flowers are 4-lobed.
• Some varieties, like 'Pendula', have a weeping habit and reach about 6 feet in height.

Ecological Role

• An excellent plant for Xeriscape, providing visual interest in the dry landscape during winter.
• Fruits are a food source for wildlife.
• A common shrub along hammock ecotones.

Quirky Facts

• The Texas Parks and Wildlife magazine recognized swamp privet as a winner in some sort of race.

Further Information

• Dave's Garden: A community sharing tips and ideas for gardens.
• NetPS Plant Finder: Source of photos and plant information.
• Discover Life: Biology, natural history, ecology, identification, and distribution information.