The Sturdiness of Bois d'Arc Trees - a Guest Blog by Addysen Dillard

Bois D’Arc trees have a historical past, a stable present, and a promising future. Local to Central Texas since the time of the American Indian, Bois D’Arc trees have played a large role in the area.

Bois D'Arc Trees in Collin County

The wood of this tree is one of the hardest, with its durability and resistance to decay being key decision points for its desirability in construction. Making wagon wheels or kitchen supplies was common but the wood's popularity increased with the building of livestock pens and general fencing. Even today, its yellow, dense wood continues to be desired by the handmade craft industry.

Bois D'Arc Wood

Bois D’Arc trees gained traction during the Great Depression when Franklin D. Roosevelt called for the planting of over 2 million trees to prevent soil decomposition. Also known as Osage orange or hedge apple trees, Bois D'Arc trees are a valuable addition to many landscapes. Their distinctive appearance, durability, and ecological benefits set them apart from more common landscaping trees.

A mature Bois d'Arc tree

The general public of Texas equally shares its pride for the Bois Arc. One can explore its history with a visit to Bois D’Arc Lane in Frisco or by visiting the Bois D’Arc Lake in Fannin county.

For a McKinney Bois D'Arc experience, one can visit the Heard-Craig Center for the Arts in McKinney, Texas where the historic museum was built entirely upon a foundation of Bois D'Arc trees. The sturdiness of the wood makes the museum virtually unshiftable, a perk in the south.

To hear more about using Bois D'Arc wood for foundations, visit the Heard-Craig on Tuesdays or Thursdays at 1:00 PM for a tour of the facility. www.heardcraig.org 972-569-6909.