History & Culture

Discover the Indigenous history of yaupon, North America's only native caffeinated plant. Learn how it was used in ceremonies, trade networks, and daily life across the American South for centuries before European arrival.

Explore the history of yaupon in Texas, from Indigenous use and regional trade networks to its decline, rediscovery, and modern revival as North America's only native caffeinated plant.

Yaupon holly is North America's only naturally caffeinated native plant. Once widely used by Indigenous communities across the American South, yaupon faded from public awareness as coffee and tea became dominant. Today, growers, researchers, and conservationists are helping bring this historic Texas plant back into the spotlight.