LARGE TREES |
Arizona Cypress Cupressus arizonica | 2 | 25'-50' | 25'-50' | Sun | E | | Blue-silver foliage | L | | Prune for shape only | | | | Triangular shaped foliage; well suited to limestone soils; attractive peeling red bark; some disease problems |
Big Tooth Maple Acer grandidentatum | 1 | 20'-30' | 20'-30' | Sun/part shade | D | | Red and gold fall foliage | M | D | Prune for shape or to raise canopy | + • | | | Needs good soil depth; outstanding fall color |
Bradford Pear Pyrus calleryana | | 25'-40' | | Full sun/part shade | E | | White | M | | Prune for shape or to raise canopy | | | | Likes moist, well-drained soil; flower has unpleasant odor; 25-30 year life span; disease resistant |
Cherry Laurel Prunus caroliniana | 2 | 25'-30' | 15'-25' | Sun/part shade | E | | Dark green foliage | M | | Prune for shape only and/or to raise canopy | • | • | | Screening plant, wildlife food; does not like hot, dry locations; requires deep soil and good drainage or is susceptible to chlorosis; too vigorous to use as a hedge |
Chinese Pistache Pistacia chinensis | 2 | 25'-40' | 25'-40' | Sun | D | | Burgundy red fall foliage | M | | Prune for shape or to raise canopy | | | | Compact when older; moderate growth rate; long-lived; can be invasive; tall and lanky when young, but fills out |
Crape Myrtle Lagerstroemia indica | 2 | 4'-25' | 4'-20' | Sun | D | Summer | White, pink, lavender flowers; varied fall foliage | M | | Prune for shape or to raise canopy; do not chop tops! | | | | Showy flowers; choose mildew-resistant varieties, many of which are named after Native American tribes, e.g., Sioux, Hopi; trees need good air low; note mature size when selecting variety |
Cypress, Bald Taxodium distichum | 1 | 60'-100' | 25'-50'+ | Sun/part shade | D | | Copper leaves in fall | H | | Pruning not necessary | + • | | | Use western seed source only; requires deep, moist soil conditions and moisture; foliage dries up in dry, hot location |
Cypress, Montezuma Taxodium mucronatum | 1 | to 75' | 25'-50' | Sun/part shade | D | | Bronze leaves in fall | M | | Pruning not necessary | • | | • | Similar to Bald Cypress but more adapted to dry, stressful conditions |
Eastern Walnut Juglans nigra | | 50' | 40' | Sun | N | Fall | Varied leaves | M | D | Prune for shape or to raise canopy | | | | Provides shade; edible nut; roots give off toxins |
Elm, American Ulmus americana | | 53'-80' | | Sun/party shade | N | Fall | Varied leaves | M | | Prune for shape or to raise canopy | • | | | Fast-growing, easily transplanted; will grow in many situations; shallow roots; weak wood; susceptible to Dutch Elm and other diseases and bugs |
Elm, Cedar Ulmus crassifolia | 1 | 25'-50' | 25'-35' | Sun/part shade | D | | Gold leaves in fall | L | | Prune for shape or to raise canopy | + • | • | | Upright form; adapted to rocky soils; can withstand heavy, poorly drained clay soils and soils that are moderately compacted; susceptible to powdery mildew |
Elm, Lacebark Ulmus parvifolia | 2 | 30'-40' | 30'-40' | Sun | D | | | M | | Prune for shape or to raise canopy | | | | Nearly evergreen; open spreading form; attractive exfoliating bark; drought tolerant |
Escarpment Black Cherry Prunus serotina var. eximia | 2 | 25'-50' | to 25' | Sun | D | | Yellow fall foliage | M | D | Prune for shape or to raise canopy | + • | • | | Fruit bearing, wildlife food; not for heavy, clay soils; foliage may be toxic and can be fatal if consumed; relatively short-lived |
Honey Mesquite Prosopis glandulosa | 1 | 25'-30' | 25'-30' | Sun | D | March-Sept. | Creamy white | L | D | Prune for shape or to raise canopy | + • | • | • | 2"-3" long blooms; bright green foliage and weeping shape; very slow growing; thorns; excellent nectar source |
Oak, Blackjack Quercus marilandica | 2 | 50' | 45' | Sun/part shade | D | | | L | D | Avoid pruning or injuring the bark from February 1 to June 1 to help prevent oak wilt | • | | | Needs well drained soil |
Oak, Bur Quercus macrocarpa | 2 | 50'+ | 50'+ | Sun/part shade | D | | | M | | Prune for shape or to raise canopy | + • | • | | Large, majestic, very adaptable, needs lots of space; moderate growth rate; susceptible to powdery mildew |
Oak, Chinquapin Quercus muhlenbergii | 1 | 50'+ | 25'-50' | Sun/part shade | D | | | M | | Prune for shape or to raise canopy | + • | • | | Stately form; good for deeper soils; requires additional water until established; moderate growth rate |
Oak, Durand Quercus sinuata | | to 90' | to 60' | Sun | N | | | L | D | Prune for shape or to raise canopy | • | | | Likes hard limestone; solitary |
Oak, Escarpment Live Quercus fusiformis | 1 | 30'-40' | 40'+ | Sun/part shade | E | | | L | | Avoid pruning or injuring the bark from February 1 to June 1 to help prevent oak wilt | + • | | | Preferred live oak for shallow, limestone soils; oak wilt susceptible |
Oak, Lacey Quercus glaucoides | 1 | 20'-30' | 25' | Sun/part shade | D | | Bluish-green foliage | L | | Prune for shape or to raise canopy | + • | | | Ideal for small urban yards; slow growth; tolerates shallow, limestone soil |
Oak, Southern Live Quercus virginiana | 2 | 30'-50' | 50'+ | Sun/part shade | E | | | L | | Avoid pruning or injuring the bark from February 1 to June 1 to help prevent oak wilt | • | • | | Oak wilt susceptible; likes large open spaces; if west on shallow soil, use Escarpment Live Oak |
Oak, Monterey (Mexican white) Quercus polymorpha | 1 | 30'-40' | | | E | | | L | | Prune for shape only and/or to raise canopy | | | | Medium-size leaves, handsome tree; prefers deep soil |
Oak, Shumard Quercus shumardii | 2 | 50'+ | 50'+ | Sun | D | | Red foliage in fall | L | | Avoid pruning or injuring the bark from February 1 to June 1 to help prevent oak wilt | • | • | | Deep, well drained soil; if west on shallow soil, use Texas Red Oak instead |
Oak, Texas Red Quercus texana; I; (Quercus buckleyi) | 1 | 25'-50' | to 25' | Sun/part shade | D | | Bright red/orange fall foliage | L | | Avoid pruning or injuring the bark from February 1 to June 1 to help prevent oak wilt | + • | • | | Well adapted to rocky soils; susceptible to oak wilt; outstanding tree |
Pecan Carya illinoiensis | 2 | 50'+ | 50'+ | Sun | D | | | M | | Prune for shape or to raise canopy | + • | • | | Tall impressive tree; nut producing; for good, deep soils only; susceptible to disease and insects |
Soapberry Sapindus Drummondii | 2 | 20'-30' | 20'-30' | Sun/part shade | D | Spring | White flowers; yellow foliage in fall | L | D | Prune for shape or to raise canopy | • + | | • | Rapid growth rate; prefers moist soil; berries poisonous to humans but good wildlife food; short-lived |
Texas Ash Fraxinus texensis | 1 | 40'-50' | 40' | Sun/part shade | D | | | L | D | Prune for shape or to raise canopy | + • | • | | Fast-growing; only Ash appropriate for Austin area; foliage turns bronze/yellow/mauve muted tones in fall |
SMALL TREES/LARGE SHRUBS |
American Smoke Tree Cotinus obovatus | 1 | 15' | 10'-15' | Sun/part shade | D | Mid-spring | Pink to purple cloud-like floral display | M | D | Prune for shape only or to raise canopy | + • | | • | Prefers well drained, rocky limestone soils; plant facing north or east; does best with a break from the hot afternoon sun |
Anacacho Orchid Tree Bauhinia congesta | 1 | 8'-12' | 8'-10' | Sun/part shade | D | March-May | White or pale pink | L | | Prune for shape only or to raise canopy | | | | Prefers well drained soil; small, light green leaves look like cloven hooves |
Carolina Buckthorn Rhamnus caroliniana | 1 | 12'-15' | 15' | Sun/part shade | D | | Yellow foliage in fall | ML | D | Prune for shape only or to raise canopy | • | • | • | Understory tree with glossy leaves, red berries for wildlife; needs moisture |
Chitalpa Chitalpa tashkentensis | | 15'-25' | | Full sun | N | | Lavender, pink and white | M | D | Prune for shape only or to raise canopy | | | | Susceptible to Alterneria leaf spot, leaf blight, wilt and premature defoliation |
Desert Willow Chilopsis linearis | 1 | 15'-25' | 15-20' | Sun/part shade | D | Spring to fall | White, pink or burgundy | L | | Prune for shape only or to raise canopy | • + | • | • | Trumpet-shaped, 3" long lower; needs well-drained site; airy foliage casts a light shade for under-plantings |
Eve's Necklace Sophora affinis | 1 | 10'-15' | 10' | Sun/part shade | D | Spring | Pink | L | D | Prune for shape only or to rise canopy | + • | • | | 4"-6" drooping clusters; will tolerate poorly drained, clay soils; good nectar plant |
Flameleaf Sumac Rhus copallina | 1 | 10'-20' | 10'-15' | Sun/part shade | D | | Orange/red fall foliage | L | | Prune for shape only or to raise canopy | • | • | • | Food for bees, mammals, and birds; thicket-forming; good for wildscapes |
Goldenball Leadtree Leucaena retusa | 1 | 12'-15' | 12'-15' | Sun/part shade | D | April to October | Gold | L | | Prune for shape only or to raise canopy | • + | • | | 1" round globes; fragrant; blooms fairly fast growing; airy foliage casts light shade for underplantings; deer browse leaves |
Mexican Buckeye Ungnadia speciosa | 1 | 15'-25' | 15'-25' | Sun/part shade | D | Early spring | Pink | L | D | Prune for shape only or to raise canopy right after bloom | + • | • | • | 1" bloom; fragrant; multi-trunk; shrubby; does well as understory plant |
Mexican Plum Prunus mexicana | 1 | 15'-25' | 8'-10' | Sun/part shade | D | Spring | White | L | | Prune for shape only or to raise canopy | • + | • | | Edible fruit; needs good drainage and fair amount of soil; short-lived |
Mountain Laurel, Texas Sophora secundilora | 1 | 12'-20' | 8'-10' | Sun/part shade | E | Spring | Purple | VL | | Prune for shape only or to raise canopy | + • | • | | Showy flowers with strong grade bubble gum fragrance; poisonous seeds; needs good drainage; occasional caterpillar problems |
Oak, Shin Quercus sinuata brevifolia | | 10'-20' | | Sun/part shade | N | | | L | D | Prune for shape only or to raise canopy | • | | | Almost evergreen; acorns |
Poinciana, Bird of Paradise Caesalpinia gilliesii | 1 | 6' | 12' | Sun/part shade | D | Summer | Yellow and red | L | | Prune for shape only | | | | Withstands freezes; disease and pest resistant; seeds are toxic |
Poinciana, Mexican Bird of Paradise Caesalpinia mexicana | 2 | 10'-15' | 10' | Sun | D | Summer | Yellow | L | | Prune for shape only | | | | Blooms entire warm season; seeds are toxic |
Poinciana, Red Bird of Paradise Pride of Barbados Caesalpinia pulcherrima | 1 | 6' | 6' | Sun | D | Summer | Red/orange and yellow | L | | Prune for shape only | | | + • | Showy flowers; freezes in winter; seeds are toxic |
Pomegranate Punica granatum | 2 | 10' | 8' | Sun/part shade | D | | Orange flowers; yellow fall color | L | | Prune for shape only or to raise canopy | | • | | Bears edible fruit |
Possumhaw Holly Ilex decidua | 1 | 12'-15' | 12' | Sun/part shade | D | | | M | | Prune for shape only or to raise canopy | + • | • | • | Striking red berries on bare branches in winter |
Red Buckeye Aesculus pavia | 1 | 10'-20' | 10'-20' | Sun/part shade | D | Early to late spring | Bright red flowers | L | D | Prune for shape only or to raise canopy right after bloom | + • | • | • + | Flashy bloomer; appropriate for wildscapes; provides wildlife food but is toxic to humans; loses leaves in late summer; best as understory tree |
Redbud, Mexican Cercis canadensis 'mexicana' | 1 | 20' | 8' | Sun | D | Early spring | Pinkish purple | VL | | Prune for shape only or to raise canopy | + • | • | | Twigs and petioles covered with dense fuzz; leaves have wavy edges; likes well drained sites; more drought tolerant and smaller than Texas Redbud |
Redbud, Texas Cercis canadensis var. texensis | 1 | 10'-25' | 15' | Sun/part shade | D | Early spring | Pinkish purple | L | | Prune for shape only or to raise canopy | + • | • | • | Can be short lived; Mexican Redbud is smaller; has shiny leaves; look for true Texas Redbud because eastern variety is less adapted |
Retama Jerusalem Thorn Parkinsonia aculeata | 2 | 12'-15' | 12'-15' | Part shade/sun | D | Spring to fall | Yellow | VL | D | Prune for shape only or to raise canopy | • | | | Tolerant of dry soils; fragrant blooms; green trunk and branches; seeds out; root suckers; thorns; fast growing, short-lived |
Roughleaf Dogwood Cornus drummondii | 1 | 12'-15' | 12' | Sun/part shade | D | Spring | White; fall color | L | | Prune for shape only or to raise canopy | + • | • | | Easier to grow than Eastern Dogwood; susceptible to leaf spot fungus; recommended for wildscape; thicket-forming; good nectar and seed source |
Senna, Flowering Cassia corymbosa | 2 | 8' | 8'-10' | Sun | D | Summer to fall | Yellow | L | | Prune for shape or to raise canopy right after bloom | | • | + • | Dark green leaves; showy bloomer; susceptible to extremely cold weather |
Senna, Lindheimer Cassia lindheimeriana | 1 | 4' | 4' | Part shade/sun | D | Late summer to fall | Yellow | L | | Prune for shape right after bloom | • | • | • | Needs good drainage; gray foliage; very tolerant of poor, rocky soils |
Texas Persimmon Diospyros texana | 1 | 25' | 20' | Sun/part shade | D | | | L | | Prune for shape only or to raise canopy | • + | • | • | Attractive, smooth gray bark, wildlife food; grows best in shallow, rocky limestone soils; female trees are fruit-bearing so can be messy; slow grower |
Texas Pistachio Pistacia texana | 1 | 12'-20' | 15'-20' | Sun/part shade | D | Spring | White | L | D | Prune for shape only or to raise canopy | + • | • | | Excellent hedge; blooms followed by red 4"-6" fruit clusters on female plants only; birds like red berries |
Yaupon Holly Ilex vomitoria | 1 | 15' | 10'-15' | Sun/part shade | E | Winter | Red berries | L | | Prune for shape only or to raise canopy | + • | • | • | Small shade tolerant tree; females produce red berries in winter that attract birds; free of insects and diseases; poisonous |
SHRUBS |
Agarita Berberis trifoliata | 1 | 3'-7' | 6' | Sun/part shade | E | Feb-April | Yellow | L | D | Prune for a natural look; shaping not necessary | + • | • | + • | Prickly leaves (not pedestrian friendly), fragrant flowers, edible, red berries in spring; bluish-green, holly-like foliage; excellent nesting shrub for birds |
Agave Century Plant Agave sp. | 1 | 1'-6' | 1'-6' | Sun | E | | | L | | Prune old bloom stalks at base | + • | | + • | Many types and sizes; lives long but dies after blooming; choose location with caution because leaves have long, sharp spines; some types native to Texas |
Althea Hibiscus syriacus | | to 12' | to 6' | Full sun/part shade | N | Summer | | M | | Prune for shape only (shrubs and trees) and/or to raise canopy (trees) | | | | Litter; insects and sooty mold problems in shady areas |
American Beautyberry Callicarpa americana | 2 | 4'-6' | 6' | Part shade/shade | D | | Purple fruit | M | | Shaping not usually necessary | + • | • | | Attractive berries in fall and winter; needs deeper soil; wildlife food; prefers dependable moisture |
Arrowwood Viburnum dentatum | | 10' | 5' | Sun | N | Fall | Magenta | L | D | Pick prune the "wild hairs" for a natural look; shaping not necessary (shrubs, trees) | • | | • | 1/2 inch spikes |
Artemisia Artemisia 'Powis Castle' | 1 | 1' | 3'-6' | Sun | E | | | L | | Prune removing top½ at end of May. Prune to a 3" height in mid-winter | | | + • | Aromatic, lace-like gray foliage; berries are beautiful |
Barbados Cherry Malpighia glabra | 1 | 3' | 2' | Sun/part shade | E | March to Dec. | White to pale pink | M | D | Prune to shape only; responds well to shaping | • + | • | | ½" delicate, crepe-paper flowers followed by red berries that attract birds |
Barberry, Japanese Berberis thunbergii | | 3'-6' | 4'-7' | Sun/part shade | Y | Fall | Red fruit and varied leaf color | M | | | | | | Thoryn; B. thunbergii and B. verruculosa are fairly disease-free |
Barberry, Japanese Berberis thunbergii 'Atropurpurea' | 2 | 4'-6' | 4'-6' | Sun/part shade | D | | | M | | Minimal pruning only to maintain natural arching shape | | | | Colorful burgundy foliage; dense form with thorns; best color in full sun; needs good drainage; dwarf form (to 2') also available |
Basket Grass (Sacahuista) Nolina texana | 1 | 2' | 3' | Sun/part shade | E | Fall | Cream-colored plume | L | | Remove old bloom stalks at base | + • | | + • | Grass-like mounding form effective on slopes; keep away from walkways as leaves have sharp edges |
Black Dalea Dalea frutescens | 1 | 1'-3' | 3' | Sun | D | Fall | Purple | L | | Prune removing top½ at end of May. Prune to a 3" height after first frost browns leaves; mulch for winter | + • | • | | Requires little water, long roots will find water some distance away; excellent nectar source |
Bush Germander Teucrium fruticans | 2 | 4'-6' | 4'-6' | Sun or shade | D | Summer | Lavender with blue flowers | L | | Prune the "wild hairs" for a natural look; shaping not necessary | | | • | Don't overwater; perennial; attractive, silvery gray-green foliage; smaller, compact varieties available |
Butterfly Bush Buddleja davidii | 2 | 5' | 5' | Sun/part shade | D | Summer and Fall | White, pink, violet, purple | M | | Pick prune the "wild hairs" for a natural look; shaping not necessary | • | | | Long bloom spikes are aromatic; prone to mite problems; attracts butterflies |
Butterfly Bush, Wooly Buddleja marrubiifolia | 1 | 5' | 5' | Sun | D | Summer | Orange | L | D | Pick prune the "wild hairs" for a natural look; shaping not necessary | + • | • | | Interesting ½" lower; peach-fuzz type foliage; needs good drainage; attracts butterflies; native to south Texas |
Coralberry Symphoricarpos orbiculatus | 2 | 2'-3' | 3' | Part shade | D | Winter | Magenta berries | M | | Prune removing top ½ at end of May. Prune to a 3" height after first frost browns leaves, then mulch | + • | • | | Attractive fleshy berries in late fall and winter; spreads by runners; susceptible to powdery mildew; needs moist soil with compost added |
Cotoneaster Cotoneaster sp. | 2 | 3'-5' | 4'-6' | Sun/shade | E | | Red berries | M | | Prune for a natural look; shaping not necessary. | | | • | Silver-gray to dark green foliage; attractive fleshy berries; susceptible to fire blight and spider mites |
Esperanza/Yellow Bells Tecoma stans | 1 | 4'-5' | 5' | Sun/part shade | D | Summer through Fall | Yellow or orange | M | | Remove spent blooms; prune to 3" after first frost, then mulch | • + | | • | Showy blooms; native type has narrow leaves; "Gold Star" is an improved variety with larger leaves; blooms even when small |
Evergreen Sumac Rhus virens | 1 | 8' | 8' | Sun or shade | E | Late summer | White | L | | Prune for a natural look, shaping not necessary | + • | • | • | Glossy leaves turn burgundy in cool season; fuzzy, orange/red berries provide food for birds and other wildlife |
Flame Acanthus Anisacanthus quadriidus var. wrightii | 1 | 4' | 4' | Sun/part shade | D | Summer to fall | Orange | M | | Prune removing top ½ at end of May. Prune to a 3" height after first frost browns leaves | + • | • | • + | Attract hummingbirds and butterflies; readily re-seeds; can be used a perennial hedge |
Fragrant Sumac (Aromatic) Rhus aromatica | 1 | 3'-6' | 4'-6' | Sun/part shade | D | | Vibrant fall leaves | L | D | Prune the "wild hairs" for a natural look; shaping not necessary | + • | • | • | Wildlife food; leaves confused with poison ivy |
Glossy Abelia Abelia grandiflora | 2 | 6' | 6' | Sun | E | Summer to fall | White/pink | M | | Prune the "wild hairs" for a natural look; shaping not necessary | | | | Fast growth; tolerates city conditions well |
Holly, Burford Ilex cornuta 'Burfordii' | 2 | 15'-20' | 10'-15' | Sun/part shade | E | Spring | White blooms; red berries | M | | Prune for a natural look; shaping not necessary | | | • | Susceptible to scale insects |
Holly, Dwarf Burford Ilex cornuta 'Burfordii Nana' | 2 | 8' | 8' | Sun/part shade | E | Spring | White blooms; red berries | M | | Prune for shape only or to raise canopy | | | • | Dwarf-type grows slower but still gets large; dense leaf coverage; susceptible to scale insects |
Holly, Dwarf Chinese Ilex cornuta 'Rotunda nana' | 2 | 3'-4' | 3'-6' | Sun/shade | E | | | M | | Prune for a natural look; shaping not necessary | | | • | Rigid leaves with sharp needle points; not pedestrian friendly |
Holly, Dwarf Yaupon Ilex vomitoria 'Nana' | 1 | 2'-4' | 2'-4' | Sun/part shade | E | Summer | White | L | | Prune for a natural look; shaping not necessary | • | | | Low, mounding shrub |
Indian Hawthorne Paphiolepis indica | | 3'-4' | 3'-4' | Sun | Y | | White or pink | M | | Prune for a natural look; shaping not necessary | | | • | Susceptible to fungal leaf spot |
Kidneywood Eysenhardtia texana | 1 | 8'-10' | 7' | Sun/part shade | D | Spring to fall | White | L | D | Prune immediately after bloom for shape only or to trim up into mini-tree form | + • | • | | Fragrant flowers attract butterflies; blooms off and on through the season; loose, airy foliage smells like citrus when crushed |
Lantana, Pink Lantana camara | 2 | 3'-5' | 4'-5' | Sun | D | Summer to fall | Pink and yellow | L | | Cut top ½ at end of May. Prune to 3" height after first frost browns leaves; mulch | • | • | • | Some types can be invasive; give lots of room; attracts butterflies |
Lantana, Texas Lantana horrida | 1 | 3'-5' | 4'-5' | Sun | D | Summer to fall | Orange and yellow | L | | Cut top ½ at end of May. Prune to 3" height after first frost browns leaves; mulch | + • | • | • | Prickly; give lots of room; attracts butterflies |
Mistflower, White (Shrubby White Boneset) Ageratina havanense | 1 | 5' | 5' | Sun/part shade | D | Fall | White | M | | Cut top ½ at end of May. Prune to 3" height after first frost browns leaves; mulch | + • | • | | Fragrant, white puffy flowers attract butterflies; good for poor, rocky conditions; large and arching branches |
Mistflower, Blue Blue Boneset Eupatorium coelestinum | 1 | 1.5'-3' | 2'-3' | Sun/part shade | D | July-October | Lavender | M | | Cut top ½ at end of May. Prune to 3" height after first frost browns leaves; mulch | • | • | | Attracts butterflies; prefers moist conditions; best in morning sun or part shade |
Mountain Sage Salvia regla | 1 | 3'-5' | 3'-4' | Part shade | D | Late summer/fall | Red to orange | M | D | Cut top ½ at end of May. Prune to 3" height after first frost browns leaves; mulch | + • | • | | 1" long blossoms; attracts hummingbirds; does best beneath taller shrub or tree that provides afternoon shade |
Nandina (dwarf-types) Nandina sp | 2 | 3'-6' | 2'-4' | Sun/shade | E | | | L | | Prune older, fading shoots at ground level to promote new low growth | | | • | Choose dwarf varieties only; tall, berrying types can be invasive and lack cool season orange to burgundy foliage color; may be chlorotic in high pH soils |
Nandina, Gulf Stream Nandina domestica "Gulf Stream" | 2 | 2' | 2' | | Y | | Orange and scarlet foliage | L | | Prune for a natural look; shaping not necessary | | | | Smaller than the species but slightly larger than the dwarf form, "Nana"; graceful, bamboo-like foliage |
Nandina, Harbour Dwarf Nandina domestica "Harbour Dwarf" | 2 | | | | Y | | | L | | | | | | |
Nandina, Moon Bay Nandina domestica 'Moon Bay' | 2 | | | | Y | | | L | | | | | | |
Nandina, Nana Nandina domestica 'nana' | 2 | 2' | | Sun or shade | Y | | | L | | Prune for a natural look; shaping not necessary | | | • | Different sizes available, may seed in the wild; will run and colonize quickly |
Oleander Nerium oleander | 2 | 5'-20' | 5'-15' | Sun | E | Summer | Pinks, white, purple, lavender | L | | Prune for a natural look; shaping not necessary | | | + • | May freeze; cut back cold damaged tops in late winter; all parts poisonous if eaten; susceptible to a bacterial blight; very deer resistant; can be used as an informal hedge/screen |
Palmetto, Dwarf Texas Sabal minor | 1 | 4'-5' | 4'-5' | Sun/part shade | E | | | M | D | Prune only to remove damaged fronds | + • | | • | Tropical but tough; native to east Texas |
Primrose Jasmine Jasminum mesnyi | 2 | 6' | 15' | Sun/part shade | E | Early spring to summer | Yellow | M | | Prune for a natural look, shaping not necessary; can be hedge | | | • | Very large; for hanging over walls or cliffs; good for erosion control |
Rock Rose Pavonia lasiopetala | 1 | 2' | 3' | Sun or shade | D | Summer | Pink | L | | Prune removing top ½ at end of May. Prune to a 3" height after first frost browns leaves; mulch | + • | • | • | Small shrub with 1.5" hibiscus-like blooms; more prone to powdery mildew in shade; very few blooms after spring; biennial; reseeds freely; attract butterflies |
Rose, Belinda's Dream Rosa "Belinda's Dream" | 2 | 4' | 4' | Sun | E | Spring to frost | Pink | M | | Prefers drip or soaker hose irrigation | | | | Repeat bloomer; fragrant; disease tolerant; good shrub form with large blooms |
Rose, Knock Out Rosa "Knock Out" | 2 | 3' | 3' | Sun | E | Spring to frost | Red | M | | Prefers drip or soaker hose irrigation | | | | Purplish new growth; repeat bloomer; new variety showing good disease resistance |
Rose, Livin' Easy Rosa "Livin' Easy" | 2 | 4' | 3' | Sun | E | Spring to frost | Coral to orange | M | | Prefers drip or soaker hose irrigation | | | | Repeat bloomer; new variety recommended showing good disease resistance; upright growth habit |
Rose, Marie Pavie Rosa "Marie Pavie" | 2 | 3' | 3' | Sun/part shade | E | Spring to frost | White to pale pink | M | | Prefers drip or soaker hose irrigation | | | | Antique rose; repeat bloomer; fragrant, double bloom; few thorns; disease tolerant |
Rose, Mutabilis Rosa "Mutablis" | 2 | 6' | 8' | Sun | E | Spring to frost | Copper yellow to pink | M | | Prune for a natural look, shaping not necessary; prefers drip or soaker hose irrigation | | | | Antique rose; very drought tolerant rose; copper yellow flowers turn to a pretty pink, repeat bloomer; disease resistant |
Rose, Nearly Wild Rosa "Nearly Wild" | 2 | 3' | 4' | Sun | E | Spring to frost | Deep pink | M | | Prefers drip or soaker hose irrigation | | | | Single pink bloom; repeat bloomer; disease resistant; needs soil with compost added |
Rose, Old Blush Rosa "Old Blush" | 2 | 5' | 5' | Sun | E | Spring to frost | Deep pink | M | | Prefers drip or soaker hose irrigation | | | | Antique rose; repeat bloomer; disease resistant |
Rosemary Rosmarinus officinalis | 1 | 4' | 4'-6' | Sun | E | On and off all year | Pale Blue | M | | Prune for a natural look or shape as desired; cut back by ½ in winter to prevent leggy look | | | + • | Culinary herb, upright shrub, trailing types also available; good drainage required; prone to disease problems in wet conditions |
Sage, Texas Leucophyllum frutescens | 1 | 4'-5' | 4'-5' | Sun | E | Spring to summer | Lavender, purple, pink or white | L | | Prune for a natural look, shaping not necessary; do not shear! | + • | | • | Gray leaves provide color contrast to lavender flowers; green-leaved varieties also available; blooms off and on through the growing season |
Sotol, Texas Dasylirion texanum | 1 | 2'-3' | 4' | Sun | E | Early summer | Chartreuse to tan | L | | Remove old bloom stalks at the base | + • | | • | Long, blade-like leaves with sharp edges (not pedestrian friendly); needs space |
Southern Wax Myrtle Myrica cerifera | 2 | 10'-12' | 15' | Full sun/part shade | E | | | M | | Prune for shape only or to raise canopy | • | • | • | Fast-growing screen; grows best in deeper soils; wildlife food; root suckers; foliage aromatic when crushed |
Spirea Spiraea sp. | | 3'-10' | | Sun/part shade | N | Spring to Fall | White in spring; pink, red or white summer to fall | M | | | | | | Easy to grow; bridal wreath type-clusters; shrubby, much lower-growing type-pink, red or white flowers summer to fall |
St. John's Wort Hypericum frondosum | | | | | Y | | Yellow | M | | Prune for a natural look; shaping not necessary | | | • | Showy flowers |
Turk's Cap Malvaviscus arboreus | 1 | 4'-6" | 5' | Sun or shade | D | Summer | Red | L | | Prune to keep confined or when leggy | + • | • | • | Fruit for wildlife, colonizing; susceptible to freeze; can be invasive |
Wax Myrtle, Dwarf Myrica pusilla | 2 | 5' | 5' | Sun/part shade | E | | | M | | Prune for a natural look; shaping not necessary | • | | | Tough, adaptable shrub makes a good 4'-6' screen; foliage aromatic when crushed |
Yucca, Paleleaf Yucca pallida | 1 | 1' | 2' | Sun/part shade | E | Summer | White | L | | Remove old bloom stalk at the base | • | • | • | Leaves pale blue-green; deer will eat blooms but not foliage |
Yucca, Red Hesperaloe parviflora | 1 | 2'-4' | 4' | Sun | E | Spring to Summer | Coral spike | L | | Remove old bloom stalks at the base | + • | • | • | May colonize; deer will eat blooms but not foliage; attracts hummingbirds |
Yucca, Softleaf Yucca recurvifolia | 1 | 4'-6' | 3' | Sun/part shade | E | Summer | White to pale green | L | | Remove old bloom stalks at the base | • | | • | Soft, pliable foliage; deer eat blooms but not foliage |
Yucca, Twistleaf Yucca rupicola | 1 | 1'-2' | 2' | Sun/part shade | E | Summer | White | L | | Remove old bloom stalks at the base; divide if crowded | + • | | + • | Old leaves are twisted; deer eat blooms but not foliage |
FLOWERING PERENNIALS |
Black-eyed Susan Rudbeckia hirta | 1 | 1'-2' | 1'-2' | Sun or shade | D | Summer | Yellow with dark centers | M | | Prune top ½ at end of May, and to a 3" ht. after first frost browns leaves; mulch for winter | + • | • | + • | 3" daisy-like blooms in summer; seed sown in fall or spring; butterfly nectar |
Blackfoot Daisy Melampodium leucanthum | 1 | 6'-12" | 1'-1.5' | Sun | D | Spring and summer | White with yellow | VL | | Prune top ½ at end of May, and to a 3" ht. after first frost browns leaves; hates overhead watering | + • | • | • | Short daisy-like blooms all spring and summer; will rot if kept moist; nectar |
Bulbine B. frutescens or caulescens | 1 | 2' | 2.5' | Sun | E | Summer | Orange and yellow or yellow | L | D | Trim off old bloom stalks as they decline | | | | Aloe-like leaves; can freeze |
Bush Morning Glory Ipomoea leptophylla | 2 | 7' | 7' | Sun | D | Summer | Lavender/violet | M | D | Prune only to trim long shoots and shape plant | • | | | Tall, tender shrub; 6"-8" Morning Glory-like blooms |
Butterfly Weed Asclepias tuberosa | 1 | 2'-5' | 1' | Sun or shade | D | Summer | Orange/yellow | L | | Prune top ½ at end of May, and to a 3" ht. after first frost browns leaves | + • | • | • | Flowers attract Monarch butterflies; reseeds freely; short-lived; perennial only in mild winter |
Butterfly Weed, Mexican (Tropical Mikweed) Asclepias currasavica | 1 | 3'-4' | 1'-2' | Sun or part shade | D | Summer to fall | Yellow or orange and yellow | L | | Prune top ½ at end of May, and to a 3" ht. after first frost browns leaves | | • | | Flowers attract Monarch butterflies; foliage is good larval food for Monarchs reseeds freely; short-lived |
Cast Iron Plant Aspidistra elatior | 2 | 3' | 2'-3' | Shade | E | | | L | | Remove damaged foliage to 3" height in spring | | | • | Long green leaves; requires shade; good, slow-growing understory plant |
Chile Pequin Capsicum annuum | 1 | 2'-4' | 2'-4' | Sun/part shade | D | | White | L | D | Prune top ½ at end of May and to a 3" height after first frost brown leaves | + • | • | • | Peppers are very hot; perennial only in mild winter; reseeds |
Cigar Plant Cuphea micropetala | 2 | 2'-4' | 3' | Full sun | D | Summer to frost | Orange and yellow | L | | Prune top ½ at end of May and to a 3" height after first frost brown leaves | | • | | Great hummingbird plant |
Columbine, Red Aquilegia canadensis | 1 | 2' | 2' | Part shade/shade | D | Spring | Red | M | | Prune off spent foliage and seedheads in late May | + • | • | • | Likes dry shade; reseeds to return in cool season; susceptible to leaf miners; highly attractive to hummingbirds |
Columbine, Yellow Aquilegia chrysantha var. hinkleyana | 1 | 2' | 2' | Part shade/shade | D | Spring | Yellow | M | | Prune off spent foliage and seedheads in late May | + • | • | • | Pretty flowers; likes dry shade; reseeds to return in cool season; native to Big Bend; susceptible to leaf miners; attractive to some hummingbirds |
Copper Canyon Daisy Tagetes lemmonii | 1 | 3' | 4' | Sun | D | Fall | Yellow | L | | Prune to the size mound you want | | | + • | Daisy-like flower; strongly scented leaves; native to Mexico; runners root |
Coreopsis Coreopsis lanceolata | 2 | 1'-1.5' | 1-1/2'-2' | Sun/part shade | D | Spring to Summer | Yellow | M | | Prune off old blooms for repeated flowering | + • | • | • | Cheerful flowers; native to east and southeast Texas; Butterfly plant |
Damianita Chrysactina mexicana | 1 | 1'-2' | 2'-3' | Sun | E | Spring and some summer | Golden yellow | L | | Prune early spring and late summer to shape | + • | • | • | Drought hardy and aromatic foliage; mainly blooms in spring, on and off through summer; needs good drainage; native to west Texas |
Daylilly Hemerocalls fulva | | to 4' in bloom | | Sun | | Summer to early fall | Orange, yellow, pink, red, brown, green | M | | Remove old bloom stalks, prune to a 3" height after first frost browns leaves | | | | Strap-like leaves; large, erect, funnel to bell-shaped blooms; susceptible to aphids and thrips |
Fall Aster Aster oblongifolius | 1 | 2'-4' | 3'-4' | Sun/part shade/shade | D | Fall | Purple/lavender | M | | Prune topy ½ at end of May and to a 3" height after hard frost | + • | • | | Delicate fall flowers; nectar source |
Fan Flower Scaevola aemula | | | | Sun/part shade | | | | M | | | | | | Spreading tender perennial |
Fern, Holly Cyrtomium falcatum | 2 | 2'-3' | 3' | Shade | E | | | M | | Prune to 3" height after frost or in late winter | | | | Likes shady, moist areas |
Fern, River Thelypteris kunthii | 2 | 2'-3' | 3' | Shade | D | | | M | | Prune to 6" above ground after first hard freeze; mulch well | • | | | Likes shady, moist areas |
Firebush Hamelia patens | 1 | 2'-2.5' | | Sun | D | Summer to Fall | Orange-red flower; burgundy leaves in fall | M | | Prune to 6" above ground after first hard freeze; mulch well | | • | | Fiery leaves and flowers; turn bluish red in autumn; attracts hummingbirds; native to Mexico; needs regular moisture to establish |
Gaura Gaura lindheimeri | 1 | 2' | 3' | Sun | D | Spring to Summer | Pink or white/pink | L | | Prune to 6" above ground after first hard freeze; mulch well | + • | | • | Tall flower spikes adorned with 1 flowers that appear as fluttering butterflies in the wind |
Gayfeather Liatris mucronata | 1 | 1'-3' | 1'-1-1/2' | Sun | D | Aug. to Dec. | Purple to rose pink | L | | Prune top ½ at end of May and to a 3" height after first frost brown leaves | + • | • | • | Purple, 4"-9" spikes; likes well-drained limestone soil; great source of nectar for hummingbirds and insects |
Gregg Dalea Dalea greggii | 1 | 4'-9" | 6'-12" | Full sun | E | Late spring to fall | Purple | L | D | Prune to a 3" height after first frost browns leaves (perennial) | + • | • | • | Silvery blue-green leaves; dry soil; winter-hardy; may also be used as a groundcover; primary bloom period in fall; nectar source |
Hibiscus, Perennial Hibiscus moscheutos Hibiscus coccineus | 1 | 4' | 4' | Full sun | D | Summer to frost | Bright red blooms | L | | Cut to 6" after first hard freeze | + • | | | Showy bloom; choose varieties such as "Flare", "Moy Grande", "Lord Baltimore", and "Texas Star" |
Hibiscus, Heartleaf Hibiscus cardiophyllus | 1 | 3'-5' | 3'-5' | Sun or shade | | Summer | Red | L | D | Prune to a 3" height after first frost browns leaves (perennial) | • | | | |
Hibiscus, Lord Baltimore Hibiscus "Lord Baltimore" | 1 | 5' | 5' | Full sun | | Summer to frost | Red | L | | | | | | Showy bloom; lobed leaves |
Hibiscus, Moy Grande Hibiscus "Moy Grande" | 1 | 5' | 5' | Full sun | | Summer to early fall | Pink | L | | Remove old blooms and developing seed pods to encourage reblooming | | | | Largest hibiscus blooms; |
Hibiscus, Texas Star Hibiscus " Texas Star" | 1 | | | | | | | M | | | | | | |
Hymenoxys Four Nerve Daisy Tetraneuris scaposa | 1 | 1' | 18" | Sun/part shade | E | March to June and Sept. to Oct. | Yellow | L | | Prune to a 3" height after first frost browns leaves | + • | • | • | Daisy-like blooms grow from small gray-green tuft; needs good drainage; highly drought tolerant; nectar; small birds eat seeds |
Indigo Spires Salvia "Indigo Spires" | 1 | 3' | 5' | Sun/part shade | D | All summer | Blue/purple | M | | Prune to a 3" height after first frost browns leaves | • | • | • | Allow room to mound and spread |
Iris, Bearded Iris albicans | 2 | 1'-1-1/2' | 3+' | Sun | E | Spring | Many | M | | Clean out in January; divide in fall | | | • | Flowers with stunning blooms in many colors; spreads slowly; needs well drained soil; old cemetery iris is tougher and tolerates shade |
Iris, Butterfly/Bicolor (African) Dietes | 2 | 4' | 2'-3' | Sun/part shade | E | Spring to early summer | White with yellow or purple-blue markings | L | | Prune ragged foliage; divide clumps every 3-5 years | | | • | Individual flowers last one day; forms clumps of long, narrow iris-like foliage |
Jerusalem Sage Phlomis fruticosa | 2 | 2'-3' | 3' | Sun | E | Summer | Yellow | L | | Prune top ½ at end of May, and to a 3" ht. after first frost browns leaves | | | • | Unusual flowers; multi-tiered; attractive gray-green foliage |
Lantana Lantana × hybrida (many varieties) | 2 | 2' | 4' | Full sun | D | Spring to frost | Yellow | M | | Prune for a natural look; shaping not necessary | | • | • | May be used as a groundcover; hummingbird delight; low maintenance; prolific blooming |
Lantana, Trailing Lantana montevidensis | 2 | 1' | 4' | Full sun/part shade | D | Spring to Frost | Lavender/purple, white | L | | Prune in late winter for a natural look; shaping not necessary | | • | • | May be used as a groundcover; very tolerant of poor, dry sites; resistant to lantana lacebugs; attracts butterflies |
Mexican Honeysuckle Justicia spicigera | 2 | 2' | 4' | Sun/part shade | E | Spring to frost | Orange | L | | Prune back as needed to encourage fullness | | • | • | Hummingbird plant; very tidy, mounding plant |
Mexican Mint Marigold Tagetes lucida | 2 | 2-1/2' | 2' | Sun/part shade | D | Fall | Yellow/orange | L | | Prune top ½ at end of May, and to a 3" ht. after first frost browns leaves | | | + • | Anise-flavored culinary herb; spreads over time |
Mexican Oregano Poliomintha longiflora | 2 | 8" | 3' | Sun | E | Summer | Lavender/pink | L | | Prune top ½ at end of May, and to a 3" ht. after first frost browns leaves | | | + • | Aromatic foliage; brown, withering flower stays on plant |
Pink Skullcap Scutellaria suffrutescens | 1 | 8"-1' | 2' | Sun/part shade | D | Summer | Dark pink | L | | Prune top ½ at end of May, and to a 3" ht. after first frost browns leaves | • | • | • | Low growing; very tidy mounding plant; attracts small, nectaring insects |
Plumbago Plumbago auriculata | 2 | 4' | 6' | Sun/part shade | D | Summer | Sky blue or white | M | | Prune top ½ at end of May, and to a 3" ht. after first frost browns leaves | | • | • | Light green foliage; does best with morning sun and afternoon shade; attracts hummingbirds |
Primrose, Silverleaf Oenothera macrocarpa | 1 | 1'-1.5' | 3' | Sun/part shade | D | Spring to summer | Yellow | L | D | Prune to 3" after first frost browns leaves | + • | • | • | Large yellow buttercup-like flower that close and fade to pink |
Purple Coneflower Echinacea purpurea | 1 | 2' | 1.5' | Sun/part shade | D | Spring to summer | Violet or white | M | | Prune top ½ at end of May, and to a 3" ht. after first frost browns leaves | + • | • | • | Daisy-like flowers; native and hybrid varieties available; good butterfly plant |
Ruellia, Dwarf Ruellia brittoniana | 2 | 10" | 3' | Sun/part shade | D | Spring to summer | Blue/purple to pink | M | | Prune to 3" after first frost browns leaves | • | | • | Dwarf variety include "Katie" or "Bonita"; reseeds profusely |
Sage, Cedar Salvia roemeriana | 2 | 1'-2' | 3' | Shade/part shade | D | Spring to summer | Red | L | | Prune to 3" after first frost browns leaves | + • | • | + • | Reseeds freely; red bloom spikes bring color to shady spots; great for hummingbirds |
Sage, Germander Salvia chamaedyoides | • | 2' | | | | | | L | | | | | | |
Sage, Majestic Salvia guaranitica | 2 | 4' | 5' | Sun to shade | D | Spring to Summer | Blue/purple | L | | Prune to 3" after first frost browns leaves | | • | + • | Reseeds freely; attractive green foliage and spike blooms with long florets |
Sage, Mealy Blue Salvia farinacea | 1 | 2' | 1'-1' | Sun to part shade | D | Spring to Summer | Light blue or white | L | | Prune to a 3" height after first frost browns leaves (perennial) | + • | • | + • | Reseeds freely; wet conditions promote lanky growth; best kept on the dry side; attracts hummingbirds and some butterflies |
Sage, Mexican Bush Salvia leucantha | 1 | 4' | 4' | Sun | D | Late summer to fall | Purple and white or solid purple | L | | Prune by ½ in May, then to a 3" height after first frost | | | + • | Silver-green lance-like foliage; attractive mounding plant form if pruned in May; brittle stems |
Sage, Penstemon Big Red Sage Salvia penstemonoides | 2 | 3'-4' | 1'-2' | Sun to part shade | D | Summer to Fall | Reddish Coral | M | | Prune by ½ in May, then to a 3" height after first frost | + • | • | + • | Hummingbirds love the tall, spiked blooms; attractive, glossy leaves |
Sage, Russian Perovaskia atriciplifolia | 2 | 3' | 3' | Sun | D | Late Summer to Fall | Blue | L | | Prune top ½ at end of May, and to a 3" ht. after first frost browns leaves; remove old bloom spikes | | | + • | Lacey leaves and blue flowers; spiky stalks |
Sage, Scarlet or "Tropical" Salvia coccinea | 2 | 1.5'-2' | 2' | Shade | D | Late spring to fall | Red | M | | Prune top ½ at end of May, and to a 3" ht. after first frost browns leaves | + • | • | + • | Short-lived perennial; reseeds profusely; "Lady in Red" a good dwarf variety; outstanding hummingbird plant; attracts butterflies; small birds eat seeds |
Salvia, Gregg Salvia greggii | 1 | 2'-3' | 2'-3' | Sun/part shade | E | Spring to frost | Red, pink, white or coral | M | | Cut back by ⅓ after first frost browns leaves; shear back in spring to encourage bushiness | + • | • | + • | 1" long blooms; hummingbirds love them; can get leggy |
Shrimp Plant Justicia brandegeana | 2 | 3' | 4' | Morning sun, afternoon shade | D | Spring to fall | Copper/bronze with white | L | | Sheer back in spring to encourage business, then leave along | | • | • | Prefers damp, well-drained soil; 3"-6" long flowers provide season-long color; great hummingbird plant |
Texas Betony Stachys coccinea | 1 | 1'-1.5' | 2'-3' | Sun to shade | D | Summer to fall | Coral/red | L | | Prune top ½ at end of May, and to a 3" ht. after first frost browns leaves | + • | | + • | Constantly blooming groundcover; nice gray green foliage |
Verbena, Prairie Verbena bipinnatifida | 2 | 6'-12" | 2' | Sun | E | Spring to frost | Lavender | L | | Prune top ½ at end of May, and to a 3" ht. after first frost browns leaves | • | • | • | Spreading habit; low growing groundcover with finely cut leaves; butterflies enjoy |
Yarrow Achillea millefolium | 1 | 1'-2' | 3' | Shade to sun | E | Late spring and summer | White, yellow, red, pink | M | | Prune top ½ at end of May, and to a 3" ht. after first frost browns leaves; cut off old bloom stalks | | • | + • | Forms solid mat groundcover with finely-cut, fern-like leaves; butterflies enjoy nectar |
Yarrow, Milfoil Achillea millefolium | 1 | 2'-3' | | Shade | Y | Late spring and summer | Varied | | | | | | • • | Old fashioned favorite; colors available |
Zexmenia Wedelia texana | 1 | 1-1/2'-2' | 3' | Sun/part shade | E | Spring to Frost | Orange/yellow | L | | Prune top ½ at end of May, and to a 3" ht. after first frost browns leaves | + • | • | • | Reseeds freely; blooms continuously though not profusely; use in combination with other blooming plants |
ORNAMENTAL GRASSES |
Bamboo Muhly Muhlenbergia dumosa | 1 | 5'-6' | 3'-4' | Sun/part shade | E | Winter | Purple | L | | Cut back to 8" height prior to new spring growth | | • | + • | Tall, bushy growth |
Big Bluestem Andropogon gerardii | 2 | 3'-6' | 3' | Sun | E | Fall | Bluish leaves to rust in fall | L | D | Cut back to 8" height prior to new spring growth | + • | • | + • | Reseeds; more appropriate in meadow, prairie or wetland |
Big Muhly Muhlenbergia lindheimeri | 1 | 2'-5' | 3' | Sun/part shade | D | Fall | White 6' stalk | L | | Cut back to 8" height prior to new spring growth | + • | • | + • | Good substitute for pampas grass; feather-like blooms in fall |
Bushy Bluestem Andropogon glomeratus | 2 | 4'-5' | 2' | Sun | D | Fall | Rust colored seed heads | L-H | D | Cut back to 8" height prior to new spring growth | + • | • | + • | Needs moisture; reseeds; more appropriate in meadow, prairie or wetland; can be invasive |
Deer Muhly Muhlenbergia rigens | 2 | 1' | 1' | Sun | D | Fall | Tiny, wispy heads | L | D | Cut back to 8" height prior to new spring growth | + • | • | + • | Dense clump grass |
Dwarf Fountain Grass Pennisetum alopecuroides | 2 | 3' | 2' | Sun | D | Fall | White seed heads | M | | Cut back to 8" height prior to new spring growth | | | | Ornamental with tufts of seed heads; needs moisture in dry periods |
Gulf Muhly Muhlenbergia capillaris | 1 | 2-1/2' | 2' | Sun/part shade | D | Fall | Pink feathery seed heads | L | D | Cut back to 8" height prior to new spring growth | + • | • | + • | Reseeds; more appropriate in meadow, prairie or wetland |
Indian Grass Sorghastrum nutans | 2 | 3'-5' | 5' | Sun | D | Fall | Bright gold | L-H | D | Cut back to 8" height prior to new spring growth | + • | • | + • | Tall seed heads in fall; reseeds; more appropriate in meadow, prairie or wetland |
Inland Seaoats Chasmanthium latifolium | 1 | 2'-4' | 6'-8' | Part shade/shade | D | Summer and fall | Ivory seeds | L-H | | Cut back to 8" height prior to new spring growth | + • | • | + • | Graceful, drooping wheat-like seed heads; spreads freely; appropriate for woodland; good understory plant; prefers moist areas |
Little Bluestem Schizachyrium scoparium | 2 | 3'-4' | 1-1/2' | Sun | D | Fall | White seed tufts in fall | L | D | Cut back to 8" height prior to new spring growth | + • | • | + • | Prairie plant appropriate in mass plantings; reseeds; more appropriate in meadow, prairie or wetland |
Mexican Feathergrass (Wiregrass) Stipa tenuissima | 1 | 2' | 2' | Sun | D | | | M | | Cut back to 8" height prior to new spring growth | • | • | • | Elegant weeping form; very drought tolerant; reseeds; more appropriate in meadow, prairie or wetland |
Seep Muhly Muhlenbergia reverchonii | 2 | 1'-3' | 2' | Sun | D | Fall | Tiny blooms | L-M | D | Cut back to 8" height prior to new spring growth | + • | • | • | Mostly found in limestone prairies growing in low-lying wet areas; reseeds; more appropriate in meadow, prairie or wetland |
Sideoats Grama Bouteloua curtipendula | 2 | 2'-3' | 1' | Sun/part shade | D | Fall | | L | D | Cut back to 8" height prior to new spring growth | + • | • | + • | State grass of Texas, side hanging seed pods; easy to grow from seed; drought tolerant; reseeds; more appropriate in meadow or prairie |
Switch Grass Punica virgatum | 2 | 6' | 4' | Sun/part shade | D | Fall | Reddish tint | L-H | D | Cut back to 8" height prior to new spring growth | • | • | + • | Upright, tall habit; usually has a reddish tint; prefers moist areas; reseeds; more appropriate in meadow, prairie or wetland |
Wild Rye Elymus canadensis | 2 | 3' | 2' | Sun/part shade | D | Winter | Bllue-green seedheads | L | D | Cut back in summer | + • | • | • | Dormant in summer; green in winter; reseeds; more appropriate in meadow or prairie |
VINES GROUNDCOVER |
Asian Jasmine Trachelospermum asiaticum | 2 | 10'-18" | 20'-25' | Sun/part shade | E | | | M | | Prune to 4" height in February | | | | Vining groundcover; may burn in full sun; suppresses weed plants |
Aztec Grass Ophiopogon japonicus | 2 | 1' | 1'-1.5' | Part shade/shade | E | | | M | | Cut back to 3" in February | | | | Groundcover; similar to Liriope with white variegated leaves; no pests or diseases |
Carolina Jessamine Gelsemium sempervirens | 1 | to 20' | 10' | Sun/part shade | E | Early Spring | Yellow | M | | Prune annually to limit spread; prune only to direct and control growth | + • | • | • | Vine; very aggressive; fragrant bright yellow flower in late winter-early spring; attracts hummingbirds |
Coral Honeysuckle Lonicera sempervirens | 1 | | 12' | Sun/part shade | E | Spring to summer | Coral | M | | Prune for a natural look; shaping not necessary | + • | • | • | Vine; coral tubular blooms on evergreen vines attract hummingbirds; can be used as a shrub |
Coral Vine Antigonon leptopus | 2 | | 30'-40' | Sun/part shade | D | Late summer and fall | White or rose pink | M | | Prune for a natural look; shaping not necessary | | • | | Vine; small flowers; rapidly growing climber that holds on by tendrils, quickly covers adjacent plants and structures; attracts butterflies; dies back each winter |
Crossvine Bignonia capreolata | 1 | | to 50' | Part shade/shade | E | Summer | Brick-red with yellow throat or coral | L | | Prune for a natural look; shaping not necessary | + • | • | • | Vine; very aggressive; prune annually; high climber; "Tangerine Beauty" variety has bright coral blooms; attracts hummingbirds |
English Ivy Hedera helix | 2 | 30'-40' | 6'-10" | Shade | Y | | Bright yellow | M | | Prune for a natural look; shaping not necessary | | | | Vine/groundcover; very aggressive; prune annually; fragrant flower |
Fig Vine Ficus pumila | 2 | | to 60'+ | Full Sun/part shade | E | Summer | | M | | Prune for a natural look; shaping not necessary | | | | Vine; may become pest if growth not controlled; free of insects and disease pests; susceptible to very hard freezes |
Frogfruit Phyla incisa | 2 | 4" | | Sun to shade | E | Spring to fall | White | M | D | Prune for a natural look; shaping not necessary | + • | • | • | Groundcover; spreads rapidly; wetland indicator; small flower; larval host plant to butterflies |
Horseherb Calyptocarpus vialis | 2 | 8'-10" | | Part shade/shade | E | Spring to fall | Yellow | L | D | Prune for a natural look; shaping not necessary | + • | | • | Groundcover; recommended for revegetation; abundant in shady areas and lawns |
Japanese Honeysuckle Lonicera japonica | | 20'-30' | | Sun or shade | E | | | M | | Prune for a natural look; shaping not necessary | | | • | Groundcover; can be invasive, use on slopes for erosion control |
Lady Banksia Rose Rosa banksiae | 2 | | 20+' | Full sun | E | Spring | White to yellow | M | | Prune after spring bloom to control and direct growth | | | | Vine; fast growing; climbing; requires sturdy support; relatively free of pests associated with most roses |
Leadwort Plumbago Ceratostigma plumbaginoides | 2 | 6'-12" | 3'-5' | Sun/part shade | E | Summer | Blue | L | | Prune for a natural look; shaping not necessary | | | • | Groundcover; deep blue flowers and green foliage with burgundy tinge |
Liriope Liriope muscari | 2 | 12'-18" | 12" | Part shade to shade | E | | Purple Spikes | M | | Prune yellow or unattractive foliage | | | | Groundcover; clump-like evergreen foliage |
Monkey Grass (Mondo Grass) Ophiopogon japonicus | 2 | 4'-8" | 12+" | Sun to part shade | E | | | M | | Prune yellow or unattractive foliage | | | • | Groundcover; fertile, well-drained soil; clusters of flowers close to the leaves; dwarf form also available |
Oregano Origanum vulgare | 2 | 4" | 4' | Sun | E | Summer | White to rosy pink | M | | Prune removing top½ at end of May. Prune to a 3" height after first frost browns leaves | | | • | Groundcover; sprawling plant; pungently aromatic; flavorful leaves used in cooking |
Passion Vine Passiflora incarnata | 2 | 7' | 3'-4' | Full Sun/part shade | D | Mid-summer to fall | Lavender or red | M | | Prune only to direct and control growth | • | • | | Vine; perennial; zebra long wing and Julia butterfly caterpillars may defoliate; exotic flower; fast growth |
Periwinkle, Littleleaf Vinca minor | 2 | 10'-12" | 25+' | Partial shade | E | Summer | White, blue or purple | M | | Prune for a natural look; shaping not necessary | | | • | Vining groundcover |
Pigeonberry Rivina humilis | 2 | 1'-1.5' | 2' | Part shade/shade | D | Spring to fall | White/Pink | M | D | Prune for a natural look; shaping not necessary | + • | • | • | Groundcover; spreads rapidly; tolerates moist or dry soil; attractive red berries are prized by birds |
Purple Heart Secreasea pallida | 2 | 1' | 8+' | Sun to part shade | E | Summer | Purple leaves and flowers | L | | Keep confined by pruning | | | | Groundcover; invasive |
Santolina (Lavender Cotton) Santolina chamaecyparissus | 2 | 1'-2' | 1'-2' | Sun | E | Spring | Yellow | VL | | Prune unattractive foliage | | | + • | Shrubby groundcover; fine textured, aromatic evergreen foliage; requires excellent drainage; not long-lived; gray or green leaf varieties |
Sedge, Berkeley Carex tumulicola | 2 | 1' | 1' | Sun to shade | E | Summer | Yellow | L | D | Prune unattractive foliage | | | • | Groundcover; excellent evergreen grass-like; needs occasional moisture |
Sedge, Meadow Carex perdentata | 1 | 1'-1.5' | 1.5' | Sun to part shade | E | Summer | | L | D | Prune unattractive foliage | + • | | • | Groundcover; excellent evergreen grass-like foliage; drought tolerant |
Sedge, Texas Carex texensis | 1 | 6'-8" | 8" | Shade | E | Summer | | L | D | Prune unattractive foliage | + • | | • | Groundcover; small enough to plant in between stone walkways and tough enough for turf; will take traffic |
Sedump (Stonecrop) Sedum nuttallianum | 2 | 6" | 1' | Shade to sun | E | Summer | White | L | | Prune unattractive foliage | + • | | • | Groundcover; rock garden plant |
Silver Pony-foot Dichondra argentea | 1 | 2'-4" | 2.5' | Sun to part shade | D | | Silver-gray leaves | L | D | Keep confined by pruning | • + | | • | Groundcover; attractive, silver gray foliage on low growing runners; good drainage is critical |
Sweet Autumn Clematis Clematis paniculata | 2 | 20'-30' | | Full sun | D | Fall | White | L | | Prune for a natural look; shaping not necessary | | | | Vine; evergreen; vigorous; silvery fruiting plumes; fragrance; pest free |
Trumpet Vine Campsis radicans | 2 | | 20'-30' | Sun or shade | D | Summer | Orange/coral | L | | Prune to control growth | + • | • | | Vine; attracts hummingbirds; trumpet shape flower; invasive; pick up seed pods; "Madame Galen" or "Georgia" are among the available varieties |
Virginia Creeper Parthenocissus quinquefolia | 1 | | to 25'+ | Sun or shade | D | | Scarlet fall foliage | L | | Prune for a natural look; shaping not necessary | + • | • | • | Vine; adaptable deciduous vine; vigorous cover; pest free |
Wooly Stemodia Stemodia lanata or tomentosa | 1 | 5" | 12" | Sun | D | Summer | Silvery leaves; purple blooms | L | | Prune to 3" height after first frost brown leaves | + • | | • | Groundcover; delicate blooms |