Tree ID

[HandiKap Bowhunter]

Well I saw this tree at the lease the first time a few weeks ago and took a couple pics. Now the pics were with a Kodak EasyShare. Tell me what you think of the pics and what kind of tree you think it is. I think I have it ID'ed but would like a second opinion.

http://discussions.texasbowhunter.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=82867&stc=1&d=1235935105

http://discussions.texasbowhunter.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=82868&stc=1&d=1235935105

[AggieHunter]

Looks like a Texas Madrone... Kinda hard to tell from the picture, but did it appear as if the bark was flaking off w/ a redish color underneath?

[HandiKap Bowhunter]

The bark at the time of the pics was almost a purple color.

http://discussions.texasbowhunter.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=82872&stc=1&d=1235939696

[AggieHunter]

Thats what it looks like... any close up's up the leaves?

[HandiKap Bowhunter]

The Texas Madrone looks right. I just googled it. It is said to be a rare tree around Texas. It is the only one on this place and is right along a year round creek. All I know when I saw it was how beautiful it was. Plan to have the good camera next time.

Thanks Aggiehunter

[AggieHunter]

No problem. They are a cool looking tree. Wish there were more around.

[Blackmouth]

If I were you, I would cut those little cedars down at the base and let them lay. If there are any other Madrones in the area you may have a chance for some recruitment. Those cedar skeletons will provide some protection from saplings if you're lucky enough to have some. Madrone is not only rare and very pretty, it's a really good deer food (hence its rarity in TX).

[letrfly]

honestly i couldnt tell enough from the pics, but i know those are probably ash junipers (the cedars at the bottom of the pics that you were referring to)..... you might try checking with a local biologist or botanist

[DonBon]

That IS a madrone or naked indian tree called by the old timers. They are one of the slowest growing trees in texas.

[Hillary]

That tree is one of my favorites, we have few and far between at our ranch in Vanderpool, but the ones that we do have are very big and are so beautiful.
Not an endangered tree, I always thought it was, but it is very rare to find a lot.

[txtimetravler]

madrone. Be careful not to expose the trunk too much, dang deer will rub it to death.

Clear those hydraphyte cedars away from it, help it drink a little more water.

[Hoghuntinfool]

Yup thats a madrone, my dad and I have a lease and live in Dripping Springs and they are thick as flies around there, its pretty cool.