Nature and Science

Native Lantana

(John Labadie, Artist in Residence)

Amistad National Recreation Area's flora contains elements from three major plant communities. This is due to our location in a transition zone between a more humid Gulf of Mexico-influenced climate, the drier Chihuahuan Desert, and the hills of the Edwards Plateau.

Amistad’s Plant Communities

Tamaulipan Shrubland

Our region is at the western limits of a Gulf of Mexico-influenced climate. Plants common to the southeast, from the state of Tamaulipas, Mexico, are at their northern and western limits. These plants have adapted to a very irregular precipitation pattern with frequent high humidity. The Tamaulipan Shrubland is characterized by the many species of acacia; including huisache, blackbrush, and guajillo (scientific names can be found in our Field Guide section). Cenizo, mesquite, and retama are other species typical of this more tropical flora.

Chihuahuan Desert

Many plants from the Chihuahuan Desert have their eastern limits in the Amistad area. Creosote bush, lechuguilla, and a variety of cactus species are good examples. By the time you reach the Big Bend region, the vegetation consists of true desert species.

Edwards Plateau

Some species, like oaks and junipers (cedars), are occasionally found around the reservoir, especially in the upper reaches of the Devils River. They represent Edwards Plateau flora from the north. The Edwards Plateau is also known as the Texas Hill Country.

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