Zexmenia

Plant Type: evergreen perennial/subshrub
Plant Height: 1–3 feet
Spread: 2–3 feet
Flower Color: golden yellow
Sun Exposure: Full sun, Partial Shade

Zexmenia (Wedelia texana): Bright Blooms for Water-Wise Gardens

Zexmenia is a hardy, shrubby perennial native to Texas and northern Mexico, prized for its golden-yellow daisy-like flowers and fine-textured foliage. With a long bloom season and strong drought tolerance, it’s an excellent choice for pollinator gardens and xeriscapes in Arizona.

Key Features of Zexmenia

• Long Bloom Season: Produces cheerful golden-yellow flowers from late spring through fall.
• Fine-Textured Foliage: Narrow, gray-green leaves create a soft backdrop for bright blooms.
• Heat & Drought Tolerant: Thrives in tough conditions once established.
• Pollinator Friendly: Flowers attract butterflies, bees, and other pollinators.

Growing and Care Tips

Zexmenia is adaptable, durable, and thrives with minimal care.

Soil: Prefers sandy or rocky, well-draining soils; avoid overly wet conditions.
Water: Moderate during establishment; afterward, deep water every 2–3 weeks in summer.
Fertilizer: Rarely needed; apply a light balanced fertilizer in spring if growth is slow.
Pruning: Light trimming after bloom cycles maintains shape and encourages fresh flowers.

Landscaping Uses

• Pollinator Gardens: A reliable nectar source for butterflies and bees.
• Borders & Edges: Works well for defining pathways or beds.
• Mass Plantings: Creates a sea of yellow blooms when planted in groups.
• Naturalized Areas: Excellent for native and desert-adapted landscapes.

Summary

Zexmenia is a resilient, long-blooming perennial that delivers months of golden color with little care. With its pollinator value, drought tolerance, and seasonal interest, it’s a top choice for Arizona’s low-water gardens.

Three Timbers Installation Guide (Feel Free to Follow): Zexmenia

Planting Guide:

Location: Full sun for best blooms; tolerates partial shade.
Soil: Well-draining sandy or rocky soils are best.
Spacing: Plant 2–3 feet apart for mass planting or borders.
Planting Depth: Keep crown level with surrounding soil.
Support: Not required—naturally forms a rounded, shrubby mound.

Watering Guide:

Watering After Planting:

• Initial Watering: Water deeply after planting.
• Frequency: Every 3–4 days for the first 2–3 weeks.
• Watering Amount: Enough to moisten soil 6–8 inches deep.

When is the Plant Established?

• Typically after 2–3 months of consistent watering.

Watering Once Established:

• Summer: Deep water every 2–3 weeks.
• Winter: Water every 4–6 weeks if dry.

Drip Irrigation Setup:

Placement of Emitters: Place 1 emitter 8–12 inches from plant base.
Flow Rate: 0.5–1 gallon per hour.
Number of Emitters: One per plant; two for mature clumps.
Adjusting Frequency: Increase during peak heat; reduce in cooler months.

General Watering Tips for Zexmenia:

• Soil Check: Allow the top 2–3 inches to dry between waterings.
• Avoid Overwatering: Excess water may lead to root rot.
• Mulch: Use gravel mulch to conserve moisture and enhance desert aesthetics.