Evergreen sumac (Rhus virens)
Beautiful ornamental sumac, native to dry and rocky parts of West Texas and the Edwards Plateau but adapting very well to gardens here. Leathery, dark-green compound leaves and bright red berry clusters are highly ornamental; small animals and birds love the berries too. In light shade, it can be trained into a small tree; makes a great hedge in full sun. White flowers in late summer smell like honey and draw bees and butterflies from all over. Needs very little water or fussing with. (Photo: Melody Lytle)