Definition

Noun: 1. A shrub or small tree (Sophora secundiflora, also called Calia secundiflora) native to the southwestern United States and Mexico. It is characterized by having compound (pinnate) leaves that are toxic to livestock, clusters (racemes) of highly fragrant blue to purple flowers, and distinctive red seeds contained in pods.

Usage Notes

• frijolito is a common name, primarily used in regions where the plant is native. The more formal botanical names are or .
• It is important to note that all parts of the plant, especially the seeds, are poisonous.

Examples

• The frijolito in the canyon is blooming, filling the air with its sweet scent.
• Ranchers must be careful to keep cattle away from the frijolito because its leaves are poisonous.
• The bright red beans of the frijolito were historically used in ceremonies and for making necklaces.

Advanced Usage

• The term can be used metonymically to refer to the plant's distinctive red seeds.
  • He collected a handful of frijolito from the dried pods.

Variants and Related Words

• Mescalbean: Another common name for the same plant (). This name references the seeds, not the psychoactive peyote cactus (mescal).
• Texas Mountain Laurel: A widely used ornamental and landscape name for the same species, highlighting its attractive, fragrant flowers.
• Sophora secundiflora: The formal botanical (Latin) name for the species.

Synonyms

• Mescalbean
• Texas Mountain Laurel
• (botanical name)

Notes on Meaning

• The primary meaning is the specific plant species described. It does not refer to a common edible bean.
• The "red beans" are seeds, not legumes cultivated for food. Their primary notoriety is their toxicity and historical cultural use.

Noun

1. shrub or small tree having pinnate leaves poisonous to livestock and dense racemes of intensely fragrant blue flowers and red beans