Cedar Fever Plagues Central Texas

Annual pollen surge from Ashe juniper trees triggers allergy symptoms for many residents.

Published on Feb. 9, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The annual cedar fever season is in full swing across Central Texas, as Ashe juniper trees release vast amounts of pollen that can cause allergy symptoms like fatigue, sore throat, runny nose, and itchy eyes. This phenomenon is driven by cold fronts that trigger the trees to release pollen, which can travel for miles and affect people who don't live near large juniper populations.

Why it matters

Cedar fever is a major health issue for many Central Texans, with the high concentration of Ashe juniper trees in the region leading to intense pollen levels that can significantly impact quality of life for allergy sufferers. While the trees provide benefits like shade, shelter for wildlife, and historically useful wood, their prolific pollen production is a source of frustration for local residents.

The details

Ashe juniper trees, also known as 'cedar', typically begin producing pollen in mid-December when cold fronts move through the region. The drop in air pressure, humidity, and gusty winds behind these fronts cause the trees' pollen cones to open and release fine, lightweight pollen that can travel for miles. This leads to high concentrations of pollen across a wide area, triggering allergy symptoms that can be mistaken for a cold or flu.

  • Cedar pollen production typically begins in mid-December.
  • Monday brought the highest cedar pollen count of the month.
  • Cedar allergies are expected to last for at least three more weeks.

The players

Robert Edmonson

Texas A&M Forest Service Biologist and ISA Certified Arborist.

Robert Butler

Ear, nose and throat specialist at Austin ENT Clinic.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Cedar fever is irritating to many due to the quantity and density of Ashe junipers in Central Texas that all produce pollen at the same time, which leads to a high concentration of pollen in the air.”

— Robert Edmonson, Texas A&M Forest Service Biologist and ISA Certified Arborist (statesman.com)

“The old saying, 'if it itches then it's allergy' is fairly accurate. Viruses will wane over 10 days while allergies will usually worsen as a season progresses and (illness) peaks two to four weeks after it starts.”

— Robert Butler, Ear, nose and throat specialist at Austin ENT Clinic (statesman.com)

What’s next

Central Texans are in for at least three more weeks of cedar allergies before spring brings a whole new wave of pollen from budding and flowering trees.

The takeaway

Cedar fever is a significant health issue for many residents of Central Texas due to the high concentration of Ashe juniper trees in the region, which release vast amounts of pollen that can trigger debilitating allergy symptoms. While the trees provide some benefits, their prolific pollen production is a major source of frustration for local allergy sufferers.