Landscape Plants

Native and Adapted
Landscape Plants
City of Austin
Texas AgriLife Extension
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an earthwise guide for Central Texas

Native and Adapted
Landscape Plants an earthwise guide for Central Texas
This guide was developed to help you in your efforts to protect and preserve our water resources.
Index Key
Trees ............................................................ 7 Native to: Evergreen or Deciduous:
E - Edwards Plateau, Rocky, Western Zone: shallow, E – Evergreen
Small Trees / Large Shrubs ........................ 9 limestone or caliche soil (generally on the west SE – Semi-evergreen
side of Austin)
D – Deciduous
Shrubs (including roses) ............................ 15 B - Blackland Prairie, Eastern Zone: Deeper, dark,
clay soils (generally on the east side of Austin) Water:
Refers to the plant’s water needs during the growing
Perennials .................................................. 25 B/E - Native to both Edwards Plateau and season after they are established. The majority of
Blackland Prairie plants require more frequent watering while becom-
T - Native to Texas (not a part of Edwards Plateau or ing established. For Austin’s current water restrictions,
Yuccas/Agaves/Succulents/Cacti/Sotols .. 39 variances and other irrigation information visit:
Blackland Prairie) www.WaterWiseAustin.org
Ornamental & Prairie Grasses ................... 41 X - Hybrid plant with native Texas parentage
VL – Very Low (Water occasionally, if no significant
For additional native plant information, visit the plant rainfall for 30 days)
Vines .......................................................... 43 section of the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center L – Low (Water thoroughly every 3-4 weeks if no
website at www.wildflower.org significant rainfall)
Groundcovers ............................................ 45 Height and Spread: M – Medium (Water thoroughly every 2-3 weeks if
Height and spread are provided in ranges. The maximum no significant rainfall. Most plants in the guide
Turfgrasses ................................................. 50 heights reflect ideal conditions. with this designation prefer shade so the soil
does not dry out as quickly)
Utility Approved Trees: H – High (Water thoroughly every 5-7 days if no
Invasive Plants to Avoid ............................ 51 Plants appropriate for use near overhead and under- rainfall) Due to the City’s efforts to conserve
ground utilities should not exceed 20’ (call 811 at water, there are only a few plants with this desig-
For more information on deer-resistant, fire-resistant, least 3 business days before you plan to dig). nation and they should be placed in areas that are
rain garden and poisonous plants, see page 52 Light: naturally moist and/or receive stormwater runoff
Sun – needs at least 6-8 hours of full, direct sun Wildlife:
To help you create your own landscape design,
resources are available to Austin citizens at Sun/Part Shade – can take anywhere from 4-8 hours X – Most Texas native plants provide greater wildlife
www.austintexas.gov/department/landscape-design of sun. Typically these plants bloom more in sun value than hybrid, non-native and/or exotic
but require less water in part shade plants. Flowers, nectar, leaves, fruits and nuts
Shade – less than 4 hours of direct sun; or dappled provide food for wildlife; these plants also provide
Key
light for 6-8 hours essential cover for nesting and raising young. To
Cover Photo: Crossvine
learn more visit: www.KeepAustinWild.com
Intro
Gardening, “Austin-style...”
This Grow Green guide was created to help you select plants
that are native to and adapted for the Austin area. These plants
tend to be drought tolerant, most need little, if any supplemental
fertilizer, are resistant to most diseases and pests, and many
provide habitat and food sources for local wildlife. The less
watering, fertilizing and chemical usage required in your yard, the
more you contribute to the conservation and protection of our
precious water resources - our streams, lakes and aquifers
To acheive a successful earth-wise landscape, plant the
right plant in the right place. Plants from other parts of the
country are often poorly suited to our conditions. It is important
to understand the regional climate as well as site specific
conditions. Our climate can vary from baking hot heat and
drought one year, to frequent rain and flooding in the next.
Some years we may get a hard freeze and some not.
The environmental conditions across Austin vary quite a bit so
it is critical to evaluate your specifc site conditions. Consider
the soil type and depth, sun and shade patterns, as well as any
microclimate factors.
We hope you enjoy using this guide to bring a touch
of Austin’s natural beauty to your own landscape.
Visit www.GrowGreen.org for more earth-wise
gardening information.
Trees
Texas Ash Eastern Red Cedar Black Cherry Arizona Cypress
Bald Cypress Montezuma Cypress Cedar Elm Honey Mesquite
Bigtooth Maple Bur Oak Chinquapin Oak

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General Maintenance: Eliminate crossing branches; shape a young tree in the first three years after planting to produce an attractive mature specimen. Avoid planting trees with fruit
near sidewalks, pools and porches because they can be messy. For more tree care tips see the Grow Green Tree Care and Installation and Maintenance fact sheets. Did you know?
Trees Trees receive protection within the city limits of Austin once they reach 19” in diameter on single-family lots, and 8” in diameter on multi-family and commercial properties. For more
information visit www.austintexas.gov/treeportal or call (512) 974-1876.
Yellow- Fast-growing; native; only Ash appropriate for Austin area; provide good drainage; relatively
Ash, Texas
E 40-50' 40-50' Sun D Fall bronze VL x long life; provides nesting and cover; birds eat flowers and fruit; susceptible to emerald ash
Fraxinus texensis
foliage borer; prune to shape or raise canopy if needed
Cedar, Eastern Red Columnar, spreading shape; needs deep soil; good screen plant; native; provides cover and
Year Evergreen
Juniperus virginiana var. B 30-50' 15-25' Sun E L x food for wildlife; Ashe Juniper, J. ashei, (mistakenly called Cedar) is a native alternative for
round leaves
virginiana shallow soils; does not need pruning
White
Cherry, Black Attractive shape; fall color; fragrant flowers; glossy leaves; fruit bearing; not for heavy clay
25- flower;
Prunus serotina var. B 35' Sun D Spring L-M x soils; foliage can be fatal if consumed; provide moist location; attracts birds, butterflies and
50'+ yellow fall
exima pollinators; prune for shape or to raise canopy
foliage
Cypress, Arizona Year Blue-silver Suited to well-drained, limestone soils; attractive, peeling red bark; some disease problems;
T 25-50' 15-25' Sun E VL x
Cupressus arizonica round foliage native to Chisos Mountains; prune to shape, if needed
Cypress, Bald 60- Sun/Part Copper For riparian/moist, deep soil or poor drainage conditions only; foliage dries up in dry, hot
B/E 35-50'+ D Fall H x
Taxodium distichum 100' Shade foliage location; obtain plants of western seed source; does not need pruning
Cypress, Montezuma 60- Sun/Part Bronze Similar to Bald Cypress but faster growth and more adapted to dry conditions; may freeze in
T 25-50'+ D Fall M x
Taxodium mucronatum 100' Shade foliage severe winters; native to south Texas; does not need pruning
Elm, Cedar Sun/Part Gold Upright form, native; adapted to rocky soils; can withstand poor soils; provides seeds and
B/E 50-75' 25-35' D Fall VL x
Ulmus crassifolia Shade foliage nesting for wildlife; prune to shape or raise canopy if needed
Honey Mesquite Creamy 2-3" long blooms; bright green foliage and weeping shape; very slow growing; thorns;
Spring -
Prosopis glandulosa var. B/E 25'-40' 25-30' Sun D white VL x excellent nectar source;Thornless Mesquite is Prosopis chilensis; prune to shape or raise
Fall
glandulosa flowers canopy if needed
Maple, Bigtooth Sun/Part Red, gold Best maple for alkaline soils; outstanding fall color; prune to shape or raise
E 20-50' 20-30' D Fall M x
Acer grandidentatum Shade foliage canopy if needed
Oak, Bur 50- Large Large, majestic tree, very adaptable; provide plenty of space and deep soil; moderate growth
B/E 30-50'+ Sun D Spring M x
Quercus macrocarpa 70'+ acorns rate; important source of food for wildlife; prune to shape or raise canopy if needed
Oak, Chinquapin 50- Yellow and Stately form; provide deep soil; moderate growth rate; provides food for many birds and
B/E 30-40' Sun D Fall L x
Quercus muhlenbergii 70'+ rust foliage mammals; prune to shape or raise canopy if needed
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Trees
Lacey Oak Mexican White Oak Southern Live Oak*

Small Trees/ Large Shrubs
Texas Palmetto Pecan Mexican Sycamore Texas Red Oak
Anacacho Orchid Anacua Arroyo Sweetwood Mexican Buckeye

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Oak, Lacey 30- Sun/Part Spring - Blue-green Ideal for small urban yards; slow growth rate; will grow on shallow, limestone soils; resistant
E 25' D VL x
Quercus laceyi 50'+ Shade fall foliage to oak wilt; susceptible to oak phylloxera insects; prune to shape or raise canopy if needed
New Handsome tree; provide deep soil; sheds leaves in spring when new leaves emerge; small
Oak. Mexican White 45-
T 30-40' Sun SE Spring foliage VL x population native to West Texas; resistant to oak wilt;susceptible to oak phylloxera insects; prune
Quercus polymorpha 60'+
peach to shape or raise canopy if needed
Oak wilt susceptible; provide large open space; evergreen but sheds leaves in spring as new
Oak, Southern Live 40- Sun/Part Year Evergreen leaves emerge; if planting in shallow soil, use Escarpment Live Oak, Q. fusiformis, which
B/E 50’+ E L-VL x
Quercus virginiana 60’+ Shade round leaves is more drought tolerant; prune only during hottest and coldest months; paint all wounds
immediately to help prevent spread of oak wilt
Well adapted to rocky soils; susceptible to oak wilt; provides food and cover for wildlife;
Oak, Texas Red 60- Red foliage
E 15-30' Sun D Fall L x Shumard Oak, Q. shumardii is a taller alternative, but only for deep, well-drained soil;
Quercus texana 75'+ in fall
prune to shape or raise canopy
Palmetto, Texas Small
Sun/Part Not a true tree; found in moist, wet locations and/or those areas with occasional flooding;
Palm, Texas Sabal T 45' 15' E Spring white L x
Shade provides food for birds and other wildlife; prune only to remove dead fronds
Sabal texana or S. mexicana flowers
Small Trees/Large Shrubs

Pecan 60- For riparian/moist, deep soil conditions only; tall impressive tree; nut-producing; susceptible
B 60-75' Sun D Fall Nut H x
Carya illinoensis 75'+ to disease and insects; many cultivars available
Sycamore, Mexican Sun/Part Yellow/ For riparian/moist, deep soil conditions only; fast-growing; resistant to bacterial leaf scorch;
60' 40' D Fall H x
Platanus mexicana Shade orange may not be cold tolerant; prune to shape or raise canopy if needed
For small trees see theTREE section General Maintenance Comments; for large shrubs, if a plant is multi-
stemmed leave lower foliage tp create creening or to “limb up” remove lower branches as needed; see individual
Small Trees/Large Shrubs species notes. Plants that prefer Low (L) and Very Low (VL) water can be used in a rain garden if the soil is fast
draining and they don’t sit in water for an extended period. Rain garden plant success depends on the soil, how
fast it drains and if the plants are in their preferred growing conditions.
White
Anacacho Orchid Tree 6-12' Sun/Part Excellent understory tree; protect from winter winds; prefers well-drained soil; fragrant
T 6-12' D Spring or pink L x
Bauhinia lunarioides Shade flowers attract butterflies and bees; prune to shape or raise canopy if needed
flowers
Fast-growing; often suckers or is multi-trunked; provide well-drained, alkaline soil; may die
Anacua (Sandpaper Tree) 20- Sun/Part Spring - White
T 15-30' SE L x back in severe winters; edible fruit; attracts birds; bee nectar source; prune to shape or raise
Ehretia anacua 25'+ Shade summer flowers
canopy if needed
White
up to
Arroyo Sweetwood Sun/Part flowers; Fast-growing shrub, often multi-trunked; nice foliage; prefers alkaline soil; fragrant, showy
20'+ 15' D Spring VL N
Myrospernum sousanum Shade gold fall flowers; attracts butterflies, birds and bees; prune to shape or raise canopy if needed
foliage
Buckeye, Mexican 12-20' Sun/Part Early Pink Multi-trunked; use as understory shrub; needs 1/2 day of sun; 1" fragrant blooms; good
E 12-20' D L x
Ungnadia speciosa Shade spring flowers nectar source; seeds eaten by wildlife but poisonous to humans; does not need pruning
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Red Buckeye Carolina Buckthorn Cherry Laurel Crape Myrtle
Eve’s Necklace Goldenball Leadtree Possumhaw Holly
Dessert Willow Yaupon Holly Huisache Kidneywood

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Buckeye, Red 10-20' Red Red, funnel-shaped flowers; attracts hummingbirds; nectar source; seeds poisonous to
B/E 10-15' Part Shade D Spring L-M x
Aesculus var. pavia flowers wildlife; prune for shape only
Carolina Buckthorn 12-20' Sun/Part Fall - Yellow Understory tree with glossy leaves; can withstand periodic flooding; red berries attract
B/E 10-15' D L x
Frangula caroliniana Shade winter foliage wildlife; flowers are good nectar source; prune to shape or raise canopy if needed
Screening plant; avoid using in hot dry locations; requires deep soil and even soil moisture so
Cherry Laurel 15- Sun/Part White
T 15' E Spring M x is not suited for rain gardens; is susceptible to iron chlorosis; wildlife food; ‘Bright and Tight’
Prunus caroliniana 20'+ Shade flowers
can be used as a large hedge
varies Often too big for selected space, so note mature size of cultivar (dwarf cultivars available);
Crape Myrtle if under large types not suited to rain gardens; needs good air circulation; choose powdery mildew
Lagerstroemia indica 20' varies Sun D Summer Varies L-M x
resistant cultivars; aphids and a new scale insect can be a problem; occasionally reseeds;
remove suckers but do not chop tops
varies White, Open, airy structure creates light shade for underplantings; native; trumpet-shaped, 3" long
Desert Willow if under Sun/Part Spring -
E 20’ 15-20' Shade D pink or VL x flower; provide well-drained soil; flowers and seeds provide food for wildlife; prune for shape or
Chilopsis linearis fall
burgundy to raise canopy; remove suckers if needed
15-
Eve's Necklace Sun/Part Spring - Light pink Small, understory tree; native; 4-6" drooping flower clusters; provides nectar; seeds are
E 20'+ 10-20'+ D VL x
Styphnolobium affine Shade fall flowers poisonous; prune to shape or raise canopy, if needed
12- Small, understory tree with 1" round globe-like fragrant blooms; native; airy foliage casts
Goldenball Leadtree Sun/Part Spring - Gold
E 20'+ 12-15' D VL x light shade for underplantings; provides cover, nesting and nectar; prune for shape or to raise
Leucaena retusa Shade Fall flowers
canopy if needed
Large multi-stemmed, shade-tolerant shrub; red berries on female plants attract birds in
Holly, Possumhaw 12-20' Sun/Part Fall - Red
B/E 12' D M x winter; tolerates poor drainage; similar to Yaupon Holly but loses its leaves in winter;
Ilex decidua Shade winter berries
prune for shape if needed
Large, evergreen, multi-stemmed, shade-tolerant shrub; red berries on female plants attract
Holly, Yaupon 12-20' Sun/Part Red
B 10-15' E Winter L-M x birds in winter; tolerates poor drainage; fruits best in full sun; poisonous berries; prune for
llex vomitoria Shade berries
shape if needed
Huisache 15- Yellow Excellent native tree for waterwise gardens; fragrant blooms; forage for birds and other small
T 20' Sun SE Spring VL x
Acacia farnesiana 20'+ flowers creatures; prune for shape or to raise canopy if needed
Fast-growing, native shrub with open, airy foliage; fragrant flowers; blooms off and on
Kidneywood 8-15' Sun/Part Spring - White
E 6-8' D VL x through growing season; foliage smells citrusy when crushed; attracts butterflies and bees,
Eysenhardtia texana Shade fall flowers
prune for shape if needed 11
Mountain Laurel Mexican Olive Windmill Palm Texas Persimmon
Mexican Plum Pomegranate Mexican Redbud
Roughleaf Dogwood Mexican Silktassel Evergreen Sumac Retama

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Slow-growing evergreen native; showy purple flowers with grape bubble gum fragrance;
Mountain Laurel, Texas 12-20' Sun/Part Purple
E 8-12' E Spring VL x poisonous seeds; native to rocky, limestone cliffs; provide good drainage; prune to shape or
Sophora secundiflora Shade flowers
raise canopy if desired
Furry-textured foliage; top may die in hard freeze; some reports fruit edible but not palatable;
Olive, Mexican 15' Sun/Part Spring and Gray green
T 15' D VL x fruit can be messy so don’t plant near paved surfaces or rain gardens; prune to shape or raise
Cordia boissieri Shade Summer foliage
canopy if needed
Palms are not true trees; tropical-looking, fan-shaped fronds; furry-looking trunks; painful
Palm, Windmill Sun/Part Year Dark green
25' 7-10' E L-VL x spines; avoid west sun; hardy to 5o F; remove dead fronds as needed;
Trachycarpus fortunei Shade round foliage
can be heavy-feeders
12- Multi-trunked, slow-growing native shrub; smooth, gray bark; native to shallow, rocky
Persimmon, Texas Sun/Part White
E 20'+ 8-12' D Spring VL x limestone soils; female trees bear fruit which attract wildlife but can be messy so don’t plant
Diospyros texana Shade flowers
near paved surfaces or in rain gardens; prune to shape or raise canopy if needed
15- Great understory tree; earliest spring bloomer; provide good drainage and fair amount of soil;
Plum, Mexican Sun/Part White
B/E 20'+ 15-20' D Spring L x fragrant flowers are nectar source; larval host; edible fruit in July-Sept; but can be messy so
Prunus mexicana Shade flowers
don’t plant near paved surfaces or in rain gardens; prune to shape or raise canopy if needed
varies
if under Will grow on shallow, rocky, limestone soil; thorny stems; dwarf fruiting and non-fruiting
Pomegranate Summer Orange
Punica granatum 20’ varies Sun SE
- fall flowers
L x cultivars are available; some have edible fruit, don’t plant fruiting cultivars near paved
surfaces or rain gardens
Redbud, Mexican
Cercis canadensis var. 10-15'
Mexican variety has small wavy leaves; Texas variety has leaves that are larger and less
'mexicana' Sun/Part Early Pinkish
E 10-15' D L-VL x wavy; provide well-drained site; Eastern Redbud not recommended; prune to shape, raise
Redbud, Texas Shade spring purple
canopy or remove suckers
Cercis canadensis var. 15-20'
'texensis'
Retama 12-20' Sun/Part Spring - Yellow Green trunk and branches; seeds out; root suckers; thorns; fast-growing; short-lived; provides
T 12-20' D VL x
Parkinsonia aculeata Shade fall flowers nectar, seeds and nesting; prune to shape or raise canopy if needed
Roughleaf Dogwood 12'-20' Sun/Part White Give lots of space; thicket-forming; suckers extensively; use for natural areas and habitat
B/E 15-20' D Spring L x
Cornus drummondii Shade berries gardens; tolerates alkaline soil; good nectar and fruit source
Silktassel, Mexican
5-11' Sun/Part Green Extremely drought and disease tolerant; must have well-drained soil to do well; fast-growing;
Garrya ovata spp. E 5-11' E Spring L x
Shade flowers good substitute for Ligustrum
lindheimeri
Late
Sumac, Evergreen 8-10' Sun/Part White Glossy leaves turn burgundy in cool season; fuzzy, orange/red berries provide food for birds
E 6-8' E summer to L x
Rhus virens Shade blooms and other wildlife; needs good drainage; prune as needed to maintain natural form
winter 13
Flameleaf Sumac Rusty Blackhaw Viburnum Sandankwa Viburnum Little Walnut
Wax Myrtle Xylosma Abelia

Shrubs
Agarita American Beautyberry Apache Plum

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12 - Orange/
Sumac, Flameleaf 10 - Sun/Part Give lots of space; thicket-forming suckers can go out 20'; native to limestone soils; provides
B/E 15'+ D Fall red fall VL x
Rhus lanceolata 20'+ Shade food for bees, mammals, and birds; no pruning necessary
foliage
Viburnum, Rusty Late White Good understory tree; provide deep, well-drained soils; slow-growing; yellow, orange, and red
15-20' Sun/Part
Blackhaw B/E 10-15' D spring and flowers; L x fall color; fall fruit favored by birds; prefers deep soil so not suited to rain gardens; prune to
Shade fall
Viburnum rufidulum fall foliage shape or raise canopy as needed after blooming
Viburnum, Sandankwa 6-8' Sun/Part White Fairly fast-growing;needs good drainage;prefers deep soil so not suited to rain gardens; prune
6-8' E Spring M
Viburnum suspensum Shade flower to shape as needed after blooming
White
Walnut, Little Sun/Part Spring and Grows in limestone soil; provides good cover, nesting; nuts provide food for wildlife; poisonous
T 18-20' 20' D flowers; M x
Juglans microcarpa Shade fall flowers; prune for shape or to raise canopy as needed
nuts
12 - Fast-growing evergreen screen;foliage aromatic when crushed; dwarf cultivars available
Wax Myrtle Sun/Part Blue
B 15’+ 15' E Winter M x at 8-10’ height; provides food and cover for wildlife; prefers deep soil so not suited for rain
Morella cerifera Shade berries
gardens; prune for shape or to raise canopy if needed
Large, loose, airy shrub or small tree; glossy foliage; inconspicuous flowers; adaptable to
Xylosma 12-20' Sun/Part White
8-15' SE Spring M x most soils, but prefers consistent soil moisture so not suited to rain gardens; heat tolerant;
Xylosma congestum Shade flowers
occasional scale or spider mites; hardy to 10º F; can be pruned as tree or hedge
To maintain a natural look, selectively prune to shape if needed but do not shear.Plants that prefer Low (L) and Very Low (VL) water can be used in a rain
Shrubs
Shrubs garden if the soil is fast draining and they don’t sit in water for an extended period. Rain garden plant success depends on the soil, how fast it drains and if the
plants are in their preferred growing conditions.
Abelia, Glossy Sun/Part Summer Pink/white Fast-growing, very adaptable, dense, evergreen hedge; fragrant flowers; 3-4' dwarf cultivars
6' 6' E L-M x
Abelia x grandiflora Shade - fall flowers available; check label for specifics; attracts bees; selectively prune errant stems if too wild-looking
Agarita Yellow Native, evergreen shrub; bluish-green, holly-like foliage; fragrant early spring flowers; prickly
Sun/Part Early
Berberis trifoliata E 3-7' 3-6' E flowers; VL x leaves not pedestrian friendly but provides excellent nesting for birds; red edible berries;
Shade spring
(Mahonia trifoliata) red berries pruning not necessary
Great native understory shrub;prefers dependable moisture and deep soil, so not suited to
American Beautyberry Fall -
B 4-6' 6' Shade D Purple fruit L-M x rain gardens; attractive berries in fall and winter; wildlife food; graceful structure does not
Callicarpa americana winter
need pruning
White Multi-stemmed; 2" showy blooms; good for erosion control; adaptable to dry, well-drained,
Apache Plume Sun/Part
E 4-6'+ 4-6' SE Spring flowers; L x limestone, sandy and clay soils; provides nectar, cover; attracts bees, butterflies, birds;
Fallogia paradoxa Shade
pink fruit evergreen to 20o F 15
Shrubs
Japanese Aralia Barbados Cherry Purple Baptisia Bottlebrush
Wooly Butterfly Bush Coralberry Cotoneaster
Desert Broom Elbow Bush Flame Acanthus Black Dalea

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Late Large, tropical-looking foliage; inconspicuous blooms; water from below to reduce foliage
Aralia, Japanese Cream
10' 10-12' Shade E summer - M x disease; may die back in harsh winter; prefers consistent soil mositure so not suited to rain
Fatsia japonica early fall flowers
gardens; remove yellow foliage as needed
Baptisia, Purple Spring
up to Blue/ Tap-rooted plant; prefers well-drained soil; tolerates limestone, most parts of plants
(Wild Indigo) T 3' Sun D - early L-M x
5’ summer purple poisonous; attracts butterflies and bees
Baptisa australis
White to
Barbados Cherry Sun/Part Spring - 1/2” delicate, crepe-paper flowers; red berries that are prized by birds and small mammals;
T 4-6’+ 2-3' SE pale pink L-M x
Malpighia glabra Shade Fall evergreen above 25o F
flowers
Bottlebrush Spring - Red Unusual, tropical-looking flowers; provide well-drained soil; drought tolerant; pest and disease
8' 6' Sun E L x
Callistemon citrinus Summer flowers resistant; many cultivars available; attracts bees; prune for natural look if needed
Late
Butterfly Bush, Wooly Sun/Part Orange South Texas native shrub with fuzzy, silvery blue-green leaves; interesting 1/2" flower;
T 4-6' 4-6' D spring - L x
Buddleja marrubiifolia Shade fall flowers provide good drainage; winter hardy, attracts butterflies; prune for natural look if needed
Coralberry Good native for erosion control; stems root to form colony; prefers consistent soil mositure so
Sun/Part Fall - Magenta
Symphoricarpos B 2-3' 3' D M x not suited to rain gardens; needs rich soil and good air circulation; provides cover and berries
Shade winter berries
orbiculatus for wildlife; cut back in winter if gets leggy; control runners as required
Adaptable evergreen shrubs; many species and cultivars available; foliage varies from
Cotoneaster Sun/Part Red
3-5' 4-7' E Fall M x silver-gray to dark green; check label for specifics; attractive fleshy berries; attracts bees;
Cotoneaster spp. Shade berries
prune for natural look if needed
Dalea, Black Purple Native to dry, limestone soils; requires little water; long roots will find water some distance
E 1-3' 3' Sun D Summer VL x
Dalea frutescens flowers away; excellent nectar source; may shear back after first frost browns leaves
Desert Broom White Multi-stemmed shrub; very adaptable; readily colonizes disturbed areas; use in wildscapes;
3-6'+ 3-4' Sun SE Fall L x
Baccharis sarothroides flowers may shed leaves during drought
Thicket-forming, irregular-shaped shrub; use in natural areas or wildlife habitats; non-showy

Elbow Bush Sun/Part
E 4-6' 4-5' D Spring White VL x flowers provide spring nectar for many insects; berries eaten by birds and small mammals;
Forestirera pubescens Shade
prune to shape if needed
Flame Acanthus Medium-sized native shrub can be used as low hedge; orange, tubular flowers attract
Sun/Part Summer Orange-
Anisacanthus quadrifidus E 3-5' 3-4' D VL x hummingbirds and butterflies; reseeds aggressively; if frost browns leaves, cut back by 1/3 to
Shade - fall red flowers
var. wrightii 1/2 before spring growth begins
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Shrubs
Fragrant Mimosa Bush Germander Greek Myrtle Indian Hawthorne
Dwarf Burford Holly Dwarf Yaupon Holly Nellie R. Stevens Holly
Japanese Yew Globe Mallow White Mistflower Mock Orange

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Fragrant Mimosa Spring - Pink
E 6-8' 6-8' Sun D VL x Needs good drainage; prickly stems; tolerates poor caliche soil; little maintenance necessary
Mimosa borealis summer flowers
Lavender/
Germander, Bush Sun/Part Don't over water; attractive silvery-gray green foliage; attracts bees and butterflies; prune
4-6' 4-6' E Summer blue L x
Teucrium fruticans Shade errant stems for a natural look, shaping not necessary
flowers
Greek Myrtle 10- Sun/Part Spring - White Fine-textured evergreen shrub or small tree; fragrant flowers; heat and drought tolerant; good
5-8' E L-M
Myrtus communis 12'+ Shade summer flowers substitution for Boxwood; prune only to shape as needed
White Adaptable evergreen shrubs; many cultivars available; susceptible to leaf spot problems in
Hawthorn, Indian Sun/Part
4-6' 4-6' E Spring or pink L-M x wet weather; look for disease resistant and cold hardy cultivars; check label for specifics;
Raphiolepis indica Shade
flowers attractive fleshy berries; pruning usually not necessary
White
Holly, Dwarf Burford Sun/Part Spring - Use as evergreen hedge or screen; adapts to many soil types; attracts bees; susceptible to
4-6' 3-4' E blooms; L x
Ilex cornuta 'Burfordii' Shade winter scale insects; non-dwarf cultivars available; prune for natural look
red berries
Holly, Dwarf Yaupon Sun/Part Year Evergreen Low, mounding, evergreen shrub; maintains a formal shape; good subsitute for Boxwood;
X 2-4' 2-4' E L
Ilex vomitoria 'Nana' Shade Round foliage hybrid with native Texas parentage; pruning not usually necessary
Holly, Nellie R. Stevens

Fall - Red Inconspicuous blooms in spring; female plants produce red berries if not sheared; susceptible
Ilex cornuta 8-10' 5-6' Sun E L-M
winter berries to iron chlorosis and scale insects; berries attract wildlife; prune to shape
'Nellie R. Stevens'
Japanese Yew Sun/Part Year Dark green Narrow, upright evergreen shrub; provide well-drained soil; slow-growing; poisonous fruit,
10-20' 5-10' E L-M x
Podocarpus macrophyllus Shade round foliage prefers even soil moisture, so not suited for rain gardens; prune to shape if needed
Orange,
Mallow, Globe Summer pink or Provide good drainage and fertile soil; flowers attract bees and butterflies; seeds eaten by
T 2-5' 2-5' Sun D L x
Sphaeralcea ambigua - fall purple seed-eating birds and small mammals; lightly prune for shape
flowers
Rounded shape; grows in most soils; fragrant blooms in fall; attracts butterflies, moths and
Mistflower, White Sun/Part White
E 3-5' 2-3' D Fall L x hummingbirds; cut back by 1/2 in winter before new growth begins, if needed to maintain
Ageratina havanensis Shade flowers
compactness
White/ Fragrant flowers; avoid use in poorly drained soil; medium fast growth; fruit has no major
Mock Orange Sun/Part
8-12' 6-8' D Spring yellow L-M landscape interest; disease and pest free; prune non-flowering woody stems immediately
Philadelphus coronarius Shade
flowers after flowering
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Shrubs
Texas Dwarf Palmetto Pineapple Guava Pittosporum ‘Belinda’s Dream’ Rose
‘Cecile Brunner’ Rose ‘Grandma’s Yellow’ Rose ‘Knockout’ Rose
‘Livin’ Easy’ Rose ‘Marie Daly’ Rose* ‘Martha Gonzales’ Rose ‘Mutabulis’ Rose
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Palmetto, Texas Dwarf Sun/Part White Not a true shrub; trunkless native palm; tropical-looking but tough; tolerates poor drainage;
B/E 3-5' 4-6' E Spring L-M x
Sabal minor Shade flowers 1-6' flower clusters; provides cover and food; prune only to remove damaged fronds
Spring
Pineapple Guava Pink and Likes well-drained soil; a little cold tender; fruit can be messy so don’t plant near paved
6-10' 6-8' Sun E - early L-M x
Feijoa sellowiana summer red blooms surfaces or in rain gardens; prune for desired shape
Creamy- Broad-leaved evergreen makes a good screen; glossy leaves; fragrant flowers; provide well-
Pittosporum Sun/Part
8-10' 7-9' E Spring white M x drained soil; ‘Variegata’ has leaves with white edges; dwarf cultivars available; susceptible to
Pittosporum tobira Shade
flowers scale insects; may be damaged in severe winter; pruning not necessary
Prune back by 1/3 in late winter; remove spent blooms to encourage more blooms; Use drip irrigation to reduce wet
Roses
ROSES foliage and and prevent fungal diseases. Roses are not recommended for rain gardens due to thorns, maintenance
and variable water needs.
Rose, Belinda's Dream Spring - Pink

4' 4' Sun SE M Repeat bloomer; fragrant; disease resistant; good shrub form with large blooms
Rosa 'Belinda's Dream' fall flowers
Rose, Cecile Brunner Spring - Pink

3-4' 3-4' Sun SE M Repeat bloomer; disease resistant; easy to grow and care for
Rosa 'Cecile Brunner' fall flowers
Rose, Grandma's Yellow Spring - Yellow Formerly ‘Nacogdoches’; repeat bloomer; purest and most disease-resistant yellow rose;
4-5' 3' Sun SE M
Rosa 'Grandma's Yellow' fall flowers fragrant flowers; very thorny
Rose, Knock Out Spring - Red

3' 3' Sun SE M Purple new growth; repeat bloomer; cultivar showing disease resistance
Rosa 'Knock Out' fall flowers
Rose, Livin' Easy Spring - Coral to

4' 3' Sun SE M Repeat bloomer; showing good disease resistance; upright growth habit
Rosa 'Livin' Easy' fall orange
Rose, Marie Daly
Rosa 'Marie Daly', Sun/ Part Spring - White to Antique rose; repeat bloomer; fragrant, very few thorns; disease tolerant; 'Marie Pavie' is
3' 3' SE M
Rose, Marie Pavie Shade fall pale pink white version (see insert)
Rosa 'Marie Pavie'
Rose, Martha Gonzales Sun/ Part Spring - Red
3' 3' SE M Antique rose; repeat bloomer; few thorns; disease tolerant
Rosa 'Martha Gonzales' Shade fall flowers
Copper
Rose, Mutabilis Spring - Antique rose; very drought tolerant; copper yellow flowers turn to a pretty pink, repeat
6' 8' Sun SE yellow to M
Rosa 'Mutablis' fall bloomer; disease resistant
pink 21
Shrubs
‘Nearly Wild’ Rose ‘Old Blush’ Rose Upright Rosemary Texas Sage
Flowering Senna Skyflower Fragrant (Aromatic) Sumac
Sweet Almond Verbena Thryallis (Golden Showers) Turk’s Cap

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Rose, Nearly Wild Spring -
3' 4' Sun SE Deep pink M Single pink bloom; repeat bloomer; disease resistant; needs soil with compost added
Rosa 'Nearly Wild' fall
Rose, Old Blush Spring -

5' 5' Sun SE Deep pink M Antique rose; repeat bloomer; disease resistant
Rosa 'Old Blush' fall
Shrubs continued
Rosemary, Upright On and off Culinary herb; upright shrub; good drainage required; attracts bees; Trailing Rosemary, R.
4' 4-6' Sun E Pale blue L-M x
Rosmarinus officinalis all year officinalis var.prostratus makes good groundcover
Purple,
Sage, Texas Spring - pink or Gray leaves but green-leaved and compact cultivars also available; blooms off and on after
T 5-8’ 4-5' Sun E L-VL x
Leucophyllum frutescens summer white rain events; provide well-drained soil; prune for natural look; do not shear or hedge
flowers
Dark green leaves, showy bloomer, adapted to caliche soils; attracts hummingbirds and
Senna, Flowering Sun/Part Summer Yellow
6-8' 4-6' SE L-M x butterflies; susceptible to extremely cold weather; prune for shape or to raise canopy; cut
Senna corymbosa Shade - fall flowers
back 1/2 in late winter if damaged by freeze
Purple
Skyflower, Duranta Sun/Part Summer Fine texture; yellow fruit, cold tender; provide fertile, well-drained soil; more flowers in full
5-10' 4-10' SE or white L-M
Duranta erecta Shade - fall sun; many cultivars available; cut back after freeze but before new spring growth
flowers
Sumac, Fragrant Leaves have spicy fragrance when crushed; flowers provide early nectar; smaller varieties
Sun/Part Vibrant fall
(Aromatic) B/E 6-9' 4-6' D Fall L x available; fruits ripen early, attract wildlife; prune errant stems for natural look;
Shade leaves
Rhus aromatica shaping not necessary
Sweet Almond Verbena Sun/Part Spring - White Multi-branched, upright habit, adaptable; fragrant flowers; blooms on and off all summer;
4-8'+ 8' SE M-L x
Aloysia virgata Shade summer flowers attracts butterflies, bees and hummingbirds; dies back in severe winter; prune to shape
Thyrallis,
Spring - Easy to grow; needs room to spread; tolerates most soils; prefers well-drained soils; hardy to
(Golden Showers) 4-6' 4' Sun E Yellow L
fall 25o F; lightly prune if needed, to reduce legginess
Galphimia glauca
Turk's Cap Late Red

Sun/Part Forms expanding colonies, but easy to contain; attracts hummingbirds and butterflies; top of
Malvaviscus arboreus E 2-6' 3-5' D spring - flowers; L x
Shade fall plant may freeze; cut back to keep confined, when leggy, or if needed after freeze
var. 'Drummondii" red fruit
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Perennials
Artemesia Beebalm Yellow Bird of Paradise
Black-eyed Susan Bulbine Red Bird of Paradise
Mexican Butterfly Weed Calylophus Cast Iron Plant Catmint

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Mild winters and/or protecting plants may eliminate the need to cut them back; if the plant looks good, leave it alone. If it needs rejuvenating or you want
to encourage compactness, most perennials will respond positively if cut back 1/3 to 1/2. In general it is best to cut back perennials in winter before new
Perennials
Perennials
spring growth occurs. Plants that prefer Low (L) and Very Low (VL) water can be used in a rain garden if the soil is fast draining and they don’t sit in water
for an extended period. Rain garden plant success depends on the soil, how fast it drains and if the plants are in their preferred growing conditions.
Artemisia Year Blue-gray Aromatic, lace-like; low water use and low maintenance; cut back to 4" in late winter before
1-2' 3-6' Sun E VL
Artemisia 'Powis Castle' round foliage new spring growth
Lavender,
Showy native perennial with many cultivars; grows on a variety of soils; nectar source;
Beebalm Sun/Part pink or
B 2-5' 2-3' D Summer L-M x attracts butterflies, birds and hummingbirds; fragrant foliage; cut back to 4" in late winter
Monarda fistulosa Shade white
before new spring growth
flowers
Red/ Dependable summer bloomer with very showy, tropical-looking flowers; heat tolerant; attracts
Bird of Paradise, Red Summer
5-6'+ 3-6' Sun D orange L x hummingbirds; top will be damaged by freeze but roots are hardy to 15o F; prune for shape
Caesalpinia pulcherrima - fall
flowers only; mulch to prevent winter kill of roots
Bird of Paradise, Yellow Spring - Yellow with Light airy foliage; tropical look; dependably hardy; disease and pest resistant; seeds
6-8' 6-12' Sun D L
Caesalpinia gilliesii fall orange are toxic; prune for shape only; mulch to prevent winter kill of roots
Black-eyed Susan Yellow
Sun/Part Daisy-like blooms in summer; butterfly nectar; can grow native from seed; Rubeckia fulgida var.
Rudbeckia hirta B/E 1-2' 1-2' D Summer with dark L-M x
Shade sullivantii 'Goldsturm' is a cultivar with larger blooms; prune back in late winter
var. pulcherrima centers
Bulbine Spring - Orange or Aloe-like leaves; cold tender; may not survive harsh winter unless protected, so not
2' 2.5' Sun SE VL
Bulbine frutescens fall yellow recommended for rain gardens; trim off bloom stalks as they decline
Yellow Leaves of milkweeds are eaten by monarch caterpillars; non-native Mexican is common in
Butterfly Weed, Mexican
Sun/Part Summer and/or nurseries, to encourage migration and reduce local overwintering, which may increase disease;
(Tropical Milkweed) 3-4' 1-2' D L x
Shade - fall orange cut back to 6” Nov-Feb. Plant natives when possible. Native A. tuberosa needs good drainage;
Asclepias currasavica
flowers do not disturb its taproot when transplanting; or try it, A asperula and A. viridis from seed
Calylophus
Sun/Part Spring - Yellow Good rock garden plant; needs good drainage; 'Compact Gold' is a low-growing variety; good
(Square Bud Primrose) E 1-2' 1-2' E VL x
Shade summer flowers for use as groundcover; no maintenance needed
Calylophous berlanderieri
Large
Cast Iron Plant Spring - Good understory plant for dry shade; large, long green leaves; leaf edges will scorch if too
3' 2-3' Shade E green L
Aspidistra elatior fall much sun; remove damaged foliage to 3" height as needed
leaves
Lavender Silvery green foliage; provide well-drained soil and afternoon shade; seeds are sterile so
Catmint Sun/Part Summer
1-2' 1.5 - 3' D blue L-M x it will not spread; attracts bees and butterflies; cut back to 3-6" after freeze damage but
Nepeta X faassenii Shade - fall
flowers before spring growth
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Perennials
Chile Pequin (Petin) Red Columbine Columbine
Coralbean Coreopsis Batface Cuphea Cuphea ‘David Verity’
26 Blackfoot Daisy Chocolate Daisy Copper Canyon Daisy Englemann Daisy

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Chile Pequin Sun/Part Summer White Red peppers are edible and very hot!; perennial only in mild winter; reseeds easily; birds love
E 2-4' 2-4' D L x
Capsicum annuum Shade - fall flowers the fruit; cut back to 3-6" after freeze damage but before new spring growth
Columbine, Red Sun/Part Red Prefers moist, yet well-drained soils; reseeds; dormant in summer without water; susceptible to
E 1-2' 1-2' SE Spring M x
Aquilegia canadensis Shade flowers leaf miners; attracts some hummingbirds; prune off spent foliage and seedheads in late May
Columbine
Sun/Part Yellow Prefers moist, yet well-drained soils; reseeds; dormant in summer without water; susceptible to
Aquilegia chrysantha T 1-2' 1-2' SE Spring L-M x
Shade flowers leaf miners; attracts some hummingbirds; prune off spent foliage and seedheads in late May
var. 'Hinkleyana'
Good understory plant; blooms on long stalks;sharp spines; attracts hummingbirds; seeds are
Coralbean Sun/Part Red
T 5' 4' D Spring L x poisonous and not eaten by wildlife; will freeze back so not suited for rain gardens; remove
Erythrina herbacea Shade flowers
tall bloom shoots after flowering; cut back after freeze and before spring growth
Butterfly plant; covered with yellow daisy-like flowers; native to east and southeast Texas;
Coreopsis, Lance-leaf Sun/ Part Spring - Yellow
T 1-1.5' 1.5-2' D L-M x 'Sunray' and 'Baby Sun' are tighter, more compact; prune or shear off spent blooms to
Coreopsis lanceolata Shade summer flowers
encourage more flowers
Late Red and

Cuphea, Batface Sun/Part Appropriately named; very heat tolerant; cold tender so not suited for rain gardens; cut back
1' 1' D spring - purple L-M x
Cuphea llavea Shade fall to 6” after cold damage occurs but before spring growth
flowers
Cuphea, 'David Verity' Summer Orange Appropriately named; very heat tolerant; cold tender so not suited for rain gardens; cut back
2-3' 2-3' Sun D L x
Cuphea ‘David Verity’ - fall and yellow to 6” after cold damage occurs but before spring growth
Daisy, Blackfoot White with

Spring and Short daisy-like blooms all spring and summer; occasionally reseeds; requires dry conditions;
Melampodium E 6-12" 1-1.5' Sun E yellow VL x
summer excellent rock garden plant; can be temperamental when transplanting; prune back if leggy
leucanthum centers
Daisy, Chocolate Sun/Part Late Yellow Likes dry, rocky limestone, plant has chocolate scent; nectar source for bees and other
T 1-2' 2' D L-M x
Berlandiera lyrata Shade summer flowers insects; use in natural area or habitat garden; can be grown from seed; no maintenance
Daisy, Copper Canyon Yellow Daisy-like flowers; strongly-scented leaves; native to Mexico; attracts beneficial insects; can
3' 4' Sun D Fall L x
Tagetes lemmonii flowers prune plants to size mound you want; stop shearing by mid-summer to allow fall flowers
Spring Easy to grow native perennial; good for natural areas, meadows and habitat gardens; reseeds
Daisy, Engelmann Sun/Part Yellow
B/E 1.5-2' 2' E to mid- M x easily moving around the garden; flowers open in late afternoon; attracts birds; seeds
Engelmannia peristenia Shade summer flowers
commercially available; remove spent bloom stalks
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Perennials
Damianita Datura
Fall Aster Firecracker Fern Esperanza River Fern
Firebush Frostweed Gaura Gayfeather

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Spring Golden Low-growing; mounding; use in rock garden; mainly blooms in spring and then on and off
Damianita
E 1 1.5 - 2' Sun E and some yellow VL x through growing season; drought hardy; aromatic foliage; provide well-drained soil; attracts
Chrysactina mexicana summer flowers bees; prune in early spring to shape
Large Large, night-blooming, white, trumpet-shaped flowers; native; all parts are poisonous, attracts
Datura (Jimson Weed) Sun/Part Spring -
E 4-5' 4-5' D white L x bees, butterflies, and moths; may reseed; cut back to 6-8" after cold damage and before new
Datura wrightii Shade fall
flowers spring growth
Showy blooms; native species has narrow leaves; new cultivars provide color options; top
Esperanza (Yellow Bells) Summer Yellow or
T 4-8' 4-6' Sun D L-M x attracts bees and humminbirds; remove spent blooms as needed; cut back to 6-8" after cold
Tecoma stans - fall orange
damage but before new spring growth
Purple/
Fall Aster Sun/Part Native perennial with fine-textured flowers; profuse fall bloomer; nectar source; colonizes but
E 2-3' 2.5-3' D Fall lavender L x
Aster oblongifolium Shade easy to control; lightly prune if needed through spring and summer to keep compact
flowers
Red or
Fern, Firecracker Sun/Part Spring - Needs moderately rich, well-drained soils; not a true fern; attracts hummingbirds;
3' 3' E white L x
Russelia equisetiformis Shade winter prune spent flower stalks
flowers
Fern, River Likes shady, moist areas, so not suited for rain gardens; prune dead fronds before spring time
B/E 2-3' 3' Shade D M-H x
Thelypteris kunthii growth; mulch well
Firebush Summer Orange- Tubular flowers attract hummingbirds; turns burgandy in fall; needs protection in severe
3-4.5' 4-5' Sun D M x
Hamelia patens - fall red flowers winters; prune to 6" above ground after first hard freeze and before new spring growth
Forms colonies; nectar source; attracts bees and butterflies; stem ruptures with freeze creating
Frostweed colon- White
E 3-6' Shade D Fall L-M x ice crystal formations (inset photo); commercial availability limited; cut back to 6" after cold
Verbesina virginica izes flowers
damage occurs and before new spring growth
Gaura Sun/Part Spring - Pink or Tall flower spikes with 1" flowers that that resemble fluttering butterflies; attracts butterflies;
B 2-3' 3' D L x
Gaura lindheimeri Shade summer white/pink cut back to 3" after first hard freeze
Gayfeather Purple to Likes well-drained limestone soil; best if kept dry; great nectar source for butterflies and
E 1-3' 1-1.5' Sun D Fall VL x
Liatris mucronata rose pink other insects; cut back to 3" after first hard freeze
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Perennials
Green Germander Ghost Plant Gregg Mistflower Perennial Hibiscus
Mexican Honeysuckle ‘Indigo Spires’ Salvia Bicolor or Butterfly Iris
Lamb’s Ear Hymenoxys Lantana (hybrid) Texas Lantana

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Pink,
Germander, Green Shrubby; clump-forming; dark evergreen, aromatic foliage; needs well-drained soil;
up to 1' 1-2' Sun D Spring purple, L-M x
Teucrium chamaedrys attracts bees and butterflies; no pruning necessary
lavender
Ghost Plant
Sun/Part Grayish Easy to grow with good drainage, light blue to gray, pink foliage; succulent leaves break off
Graptopetalum 7-12" 6-12" E Spring VL x
Shade pink leaves easily (and readily re-root); attracts bees; no maintenance necessary
paraguayense
Forms colonies, but easy to contain; tolerates poor soil; can take full sun but does best in
Gregg Mistflower Sun/Part Summer Blue
T 1-2' 2-4'+ D L-M x morning sun or part shade; attracts butterflies; native to West Texas; cut back to 3" if needed
Conoclinium greggii Shade - fall flowers
after hard freeze
Hibiscus, Perennial Summer Bright red Showy blooms can reach 8-10" across; many cultivars available are hybrids; provides nectar
X 3-5' 4' Sun D M x
Hibiscus spp. - fall blooms for hummingbirds; H. moscheutos H. coccineus; cut back to 6" after hard freeze
Honeysuckle, Mexican Sun/Part Spring - Orange Hummingbird plant; grayish foliage; long bloom period; prune back as needed to encourage
3' 4' SE L x
Justicia spicigera Shade fall flowers fullness
Hymenoxys
Sun/Part Spring - Yellow Daisy-like blooms grow from small tuft; prefers dry, well-drained soils; good in rock garden;
(Four Nerve Daisy) E 1' 1' E VL x
Shade fall flowers prune off spent bloom stalks
Tetraneuris scaposa
Indigo Spires Sun/Part Blue/

x 3-4' 5-7' D Summer L-M x Allow room to mound and spread; shear back by 1/3 in summer
Salvia 'Indigo Spires' Shade purple
Spring Creamy
Iris, Bicolor Sun/ Part Forms clumps of long, narrow, iris-like foliage; Buttefly Iris, D. iriodoides, has wider leaves
4' 2-3' E - early yellow w/ L
Dietes bicolor Shade summer markings and white flower with blue and yellow markings; remove unsightly foliage as needed
Lamb's Ear Year Gray fuzzy Tolerates dry soil; used for foliage not flowers; attracts bees; remove unsightly foliage as
1' 1.5' Sun D L x
Stachys byzantina round leaves needed; avoid overhead watering
Lantana (hybrid) Spring - Many varieties; butterfly delight; prolific blooming (photo: ‘New Gold’); can be cold tender; all
X 2-4' 4' Sun D Varies L x
Lantana x hybrida fall parts are poisonous; cut back to 6” after freeze and before new spring growth
Orange
Lantana, Texas Summer Flowers begin yellow and turn orange; give lots of room; attracts butterflies; stems become
B/E 3-5' 4-5' Sun D and yellow L x
Lantana urticoides - fall thorny with age; all parts are poisonous, cut back in winter as desired to keep in bounds
flowers
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Perennials
Trailing Lantana Lion’s Tail Maximillian Sunflower Mexican Mint Marigold
Fall Obedient Plant Mexican Oregano Gulf Coast Penstemon Hill Country Penstemon
Rock Penstemon Garden Phlox Plumbago

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Lavender
Lantana, Trailing Sun/Part Spring - May be used as a groundcover; very tolerant of poor soils; resistant to lantana lacebugs;
1-1.5' 4'+ SE or white L x
Lantana montevidensis Shade fall attracts butterflies; all parts are poisionous; do not plant near preserves
flowers
Late
Lion's Tail Orange Unusual, multi-tiered bloom; provide well-drained soil; seeds out readily; do not plant near
4-6' 4-6' Sun E spring - L
Leonotis leonurus fall flowers preserves; prune after flowering to maintain compact form
Maximilian Sunflower up to Forms Sun/Part Yellow Forms colony so plant with plenty of space toward back of garden; easy to grow; seed is
B/E D Fall L-M x
Helianthus maximiliani 10' colony Shade flowers commercially available; cut back stalks after freeze and birds have harvested seeds
Yellow/
Mexican Mint Marigold Sun/Part Tarragon-flavored culinary herb; spreads over time; nectar source for butterflies; shear in
2-3' 2-3' D Fall orange L x
Tagetes lucida Shade early summer to encourage compactness
flowers
Obedient Plant, Fall Sun/Part Tolerates poor drainage; spreads aggressively by underground rhizomes, but easy to contain;
B 2-4' 4'+ D Fall Lavender M x
Phystostegia virginiana Shade P. angustifolia is spring-blooming relative; cut back to 6" after fall bloom
Oregano, Mexican Sun/Part Lavender/ Aromatic foliage; edible leaves; attracts hummingbirds and butterflies; will sprawl if not
3' 4' E Summer L x
Poliomintha longiflora Shade pink pruned; cut back top 1/2 after bloom and to 3-4" after cold damage and before spring growth
Penstemon, Gulf Coast 1.5- Sun/Part Attracts humingbirds; seeds out readily; remove flower stalks before they set seed
T 1-1.5' SE Spring Lavender L x
Penstemon tenuis 2.5' Shade to avoid spread
Penstemon, Hill Country 1.5- Sun/Part Hot pink to

E 1.5' D Spring L x Good hummingbird plant; needs well-drained soil; cut back flowers after blooming
Penstemon triflorus 2.5' Shade red
Penstemon, Rock Spring -

E 1-1.5' 2' Sun E Cherry red L x Needs well-drained soil; attracts hummingbirds; trim if leggy
Penstemon baccharifolius summer
Phlox, Garden Sun/Part Purple Tall bloom spikes all summer; susceptible to powdery mildew; attracts butterflies; cut back to
3' 2' D Summer M x
Phlox paniculata Shade flowers 3" after hard freeze and before spring growth
Plumbago Sun/Part Sky blue Light green foliage; does best with morning sun and afternoon shade; attracts hummingbirds;
3-4' 4-6' D Summer L-M x
Plumbago auriculata Shade or white cut back to 6" if hard freeze damage occurs
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Perennials
Missouri Primrose Purple Coneflower Rock Rose
Dwarf Ruellia Cedar Sage Cherry Sage Jerusalem Sage
Majestic Sage Mealy Blue Sage Mexican Bush Sage Penstemon Sage
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Primrose, Missouri Sun/Part Yellow Silver foliage; large, yellow, buttercup-like flowers that open in the evening; may go dormant
B/E 1-1.5' 3' D Spring L x
Oenothera macrocarpa Shade flowers in summer; interesting seed pods; cut back to 3" after freeze damages leaves
Violet or
Purple Coneflower Sun/Part Spring - Daisy-like flowers; native; good butterfly plant; seed available for native species; hybrid
T 1-3' 3'+ D white L x
Echinacea purpurea Shade summer selections also available; remove flower stalks after birds have harvested seeds
flowers
Rock Rose Sun/Part Small native shrub with 1.5" hibiscus-like blooms; more prone to powdery mildew in shade;
E 3' 3' D Summer Pink L x
Pavonia lasiopetala Shade very few blooms after spring; reseeds freely; attracts butterflies; cut back by 1/3 in late winter
Blue/ Petunia-like flower; dwarf varieties include 'Katie' or 'Bonita'; reseeds profusely; taller types are
Ruellia, Dwarf Sun/Part Spring -
8"-1' 1' D purple to L x invasive; do not plant near preserves; attracts butterflies;
Ruellia brittoniana Shade summer
pink cut back to 3" after first frost browns leaves
Sage, Cedar Shade/Part Spring - Reseeds freely; red bloom spikes bring color to shady spots; great for hummingbirds; remove
E 1-2' 1-2' D Red VL x
Salvia roemeriana Shade summer seed heads after flowering, then scatter in new areas to expand population
Sage, Cherry Red, many 1" long blooms; comes in a variety of colors; hummingbirds love the red ones; tough, may
Sun/Part Spring -
(Autumn Sage) E 2-3' 2-3' E other M x bloom less after 4-5 years; cut back mature plants by 1/3 to 1/2 after spring or fall bloom if
Shade fall
Salvia greggii colors needed to rejuvenate
Sage, Jerusalem Spring - Yellow Unusual flowers; multi-tiered; attractive gray green foliage; attracts bees and hummingbirds;
2-3' 3-4' Sun E L x
Phlomis fruticosa summer flowers remove spent bloom stalks and ratty foliage as needed
Blue or
Sage, Majestic Sun/Part Spring - Attractive green foliage and large florets on spikes; attracts hummingbirds; cut back to 6"
3-5' 4-5' D purple L x
Salvia guaranitica Shade summer after cold weather browns leaves and before new spring growth begins
flowers
Will grow in most soils; attracts hummingbirds and bees; easy to grow from seed; the cultivar
Sage, Mealy Blue Spring - Blue
B/E 2-3' 2-3' Sun D L x S. farinacea ‘Henry Duelberg’ has dark blue flowers; remove spent bloom stalks to encourage
Salvia farinacea summer flowers
flowering; cut back mature plants to 6” in late winter before new spring growth begins
Late
Sage, Mexican Bush Purple and Silver-green, lance-like foliage; new growth white and fuzzy; an all purple flowering type is
4-5' 4-5' Sun D summer L x
Salvia leucantha - fall white available; cut back after frost browns leaves and before new spring growth
Sage, Penstemon/ Tall, spiked blooms provide vertical accent and nectar for hummingbirds in summer; attractive
Sun/Part Summer Magenta
Big Red Sage E 3-4' 1-2' E
- fall
L x glossy leaves form evergreen rosette (basal leaves) in winter;
Shade flowers
Salvia penstemonoides remove spent bloom stalks at base
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Perennials
Russian Sage San Luis Sage Tropical Sage Lindheimer Senna
Shrimp Plant Skeletonleaf Goldeneye Heartleaf Skullcap
Pink Skullcap Wright’s Purple Skullcap Society Garlic Spider Lily

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Late
Sage, Russian Blue Fine-textured, silvery green lacey leaves; spiky flower stalks; needs good drainage; cut back
3' 3' Sun D summer L x
Perovaskia atriciplifolia - fall flowers to 3” after first freeze browns leaves and before new spring growth
Red, many
Sage, San Luis Sun/Part Summer Prefers well-drained soil; has scented foliage; attracts butterflies and hummingbirds; many
3-4' 3-4' E other L x
Salvia microphylla Shade - fall cultivars available; from Mexico
colors
Late
Sage, Tropical Sun/Part Short-lived perennial; reseeds profusely; dwarf varieties available; outstanding hummingbird
B 2-3' 1-1.5' D spring - Red L-M x
Salvia coccinea Shade fall plant; attracts butterflies; cut back in early summer to 3" and after first frost browns leaves
Late
Senna, Lindheimer Sun/Part Yellow Gray foliage; provide well-drained soil; very tolerant of poor, rocky soils; prune back after frost
E 3-4' 3-4' D Summer L x
Cassia lindheimeriana Shade - fall flowers browns leaves
Does best in morning sun, afternoon shade; great hummingbird plant; best when massed;
Shrimp Plant Sun/Part Spring - Copper, red
3-4' 3-4' D L x flowers resemble shrimp; do not plant near preserves; cut back to 6" in winter to encourage
Justicia brandegeana Shade fall or yellow
bushiness
Skeletonleaf Goldeneye Sun/Part Summer Yellow Mound of daisy-like flowers; attractive fine-textured foliage; provide well-drained soil; cut
E 3-4' 4-6' SE VL x
Viguiera stenoloba Shade - fall flowers back to 6" in winter to encourage bushiness
Skullcap, Heartleaf
Blue Colonizes and spreads easily; flowers attract butterflies; may be dormant in summer; little
Scuttelaria ovata subsp. E 2' 2' Shade E Spring L x
flowers maintenance required
bracteata
Skullcap, Pink Sun/Part Pink Low-growing; very tidy; mounding plant; attracts bees; cut back by 1/3 after bloom if needed
1' 3' E Summer L x
Scutellaria suffrutescens Shade flowers to keep compact
Skullcap, Wright’s Purple Sun/Part Spring - Purple Native, low water use; drought and heat tolerant; showy blooms; attracts bees; cut back by
B/E 6-10" 1' E L x
Scutellaria wrightii Shade summer flowers 1/2 after bloom if needed to keep compact
Society Garlic 1.5- Sun/Part Spring - Pink Provide well-drained soil; solid or variegated leaf forms available; bruised foliage has onion
1.5' E L-M
Tulbaghia violacea 2.5' Shade summer flowers aroma; remove spent bloom stalks
Spider Lily Sun/Part White Large 7" fragrant, white flowers; glossy strap-like leaves grow in clumps; attracts insects;
T 1-2' 1-2' D Spring L-M x
Hymenocallis lirisome Shade flowers will die back after freeze and stay dormant until spring
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Perennials
Spiderwort Texas Betony Winecup Yarrow

Yuccas/Agaves/Succulents/Cacti/Sotols
Zexmenia Agave Basket Grass
Prickly Pear Cactus Nolina Texas Sotol

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Purple
Spiderwort Spring - Fast spreading; dormant in summer, woodsy; edible; nectar source for insects; cut back to 6"
T 1-3' 2' Shade D or pink L x
Tradescantia spp. fall in winter or to increase blooms
flowers
Texas Betony Sun/Part Summer Coral/red Constantly blooming; can be used as a groundcover; nice gray green foliage; attracts
T 1-1.5' 2-3' D L x
Stachys coccinea Shade - fall flowers hummingbirds; stems can be brittle; shear regularly to encourage fullness and bloom
Spring
Winecup, Perennial Sun/Part Magenta Sprawling habit great for filling in between plants; will go dormant in summer without
B/E 6"-1' 4-5' D - early L x
Callirohoe involucrata Shade summer flowers supplemental water; larval host plant; cut back to rosette in winter
Late
Yarrow Sun/Part Forms groundcover; fern-like leaves; butterflies enjoy nectar; larval host plant for Painted
1-1.5' 3' E spring and varies L-M x
Achillea spp. Shade summer Lady butterfly; remove spent blooms; cut back to basal foliage after frost browns leaves
Zexmenia 1.5- Sun/Part Spring - Golden Blooms continuously though not profusely; use in combination with other blooming plants;
E 2-3' SE L x
Wedelia texana 2.5' Shade fall flowers reseeds; periodic shearing will encourage repeat blooming and fullness
Yuccas/Agaves...
Yuccas/Agaves/ These plants require very little, if any maintenance but they all must have well-
Yuccas/Agaves/Succulents/Cacti/Sotols
Succulents/Cacti/Sotols
drained soil. Old bloom stalks should be removed at the base; old leaves can be
removed for a neater appearance; wear heavy-duty gloves and eye protection
White to Agave spp. are available in many sizes, leaf types, and varying degrees of hardiness; after
Agave spp. Sun/Part Spring - creamy blooming rosette dies but it leaves "pups"; provides nectar, pollen and seeds; agave weevil is
varies varies E VL x
Agave spp. Shade summer white and new pest to watch for; Century Plant (A. americana); Parry's Agave (A. parryi var. truncata);
yellow Queen Victoria Agave (A. victoriae-reginae); Squid (A. bractosa); no maintenance required
Basket Grass Cream-

Sun/Part Not a true grass; grass-like mounding form effective on slopes; keep away from walkways as
(Sacahuista) E 2' 3' E Fall colored VL x
Shade leaves have sharp edges; remove old bloom stalks at base
Nolina texana plume
Likes well-drained, alkaline soil; may become shrub-like; parts are edible; purple fruit;
Cactus, Prickly Pear
B/E varies varies Sun E varies varies L x provides pollen, nectar and fruit for wildlife; many types available including spineless;
Opuntia spp.
check label for size, flower color, hardiness and distinguishing attributes
Nolina Sun/Part Tan

E 10-12' 4-5' E Summer L x 10' tall spike of small, tan flowers; remove old leaves from trunk for neater appearance
Nolina lindheimeriana Shade flowers
Sotol, Texas Sun/Part Early Long blade-like leaves with sharp edges (not pedestrian-friendly); needs space; good barrier
E 3-4' 3-4' E L x
Dasylirion texanum Shade summer plant; requires good drainage; remove old bloom stalks at the base
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Yuccas
Yucca Paleleaf Yucca Red Yucca Twistleaf Yucca
Little Bluestem Indian Grass

Ornamental Grasses
Meadow Sedge Bamboo Muhly Big Muhly Inland Sea Oats

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Fragrant flowers; deer typically eat blooms but not foliage; Yucca spp. are available in many
Sun/Part Spring - Mostly sizes, leaf types and hardiness; seeds eaten by small mammals; Paleleaf (Y. pallida): Twistleaf
Yucca spp. varies varies E VL x
Shade summer white (Y. rupicola); Softleaf (Y. recurvifolia); Big Bend (Y. rostrata);
remove old bloom stalks at the base
Yucca, Paleleaf Sun/Part White Fragrant flowers; leaves pale blue-green; deer will eat bloom but not foliage;
B 1' 2' E Summer VL x
Yucca pallida Shade flowers remove old bloom stalks at the base; (H.funifera) is Giant Yucca
Yucca, Red Spring - May colonize; deer will eat blooms but not foliage; attracts hummingbirds; remove old bloom
E 2-4' 4' Sun E Coral spike VL x
Hesperaloe parviflora summer stalks at the base
Yucca, Twistleaf Sun/Part Older leaves are twisted; deer eat blooms but not foliage; nectar attracts nocturnal moths;
E 1-2' 2' E Summer White L x
Yucca rupicola Shade larval host plant for the Yucca Giant Skipper; remove old bloom stalks at the base
Ornamental Grasses
Ornamental
Ornamental Grasses Grasses The Muhlys are all good options as accents, in groups or in rain gardens. They stay in mounding forms and can be cut back once a
year if needed. The prairie grasses are best used in restoration, prairie, habitat gardens or natural plantings.
Prairie plant appropriate in mass plantings in meadow, natural areas or restoration project;
Bluestem, Little Copper
B/E 3-4' 1.5' Sun D Fall L x larval host plant for several Skipper butterflies; provides cover for wildlife;
Schizachyrium scoparium foliage
cut back to 6” in winter before new spring growth
Prairie plant appropriate in mass plantings in meadow, natural areas or wetlands; tall seed
Indiangrass Bright
3-5' 5' Sun D Fall M-H x heads in fall; provides food and cover for wildlife; reseeds; cut back to 8” height in winter
Sorghastrum nutans gold
prior to new spring growth
Inland Seaoats Summer Ivory Good understory plant; graceful, drooping wheat-like seed heads, reseeds easily; appropriate
B/E 2-4' 3-6'+ Shade D L-M x
Chasmanthium latifolium - fall seeds for woodlands; prefers moist areas; cut back to 4" in winter
Sedge, Meadow Sun/Part Green Clumping sedge; coarser texture than most sedges and is one of the tallest; trim to contain;
B/E 1-1.5' 1.5' E Spring M x
Carex perdentata Shade foliage seeds provide food for wildlife
Late Fine- Silver-green, fine-textured foliage; hardy but stems brittle; bloom stalks turn attractive straw
Muhly, Bamboo Sun/Part
4-5' 3-4' D summer to textured L x color in winter; selectively prune stalks to maintain elegant shape;
Muhlenbergia dumosa Shade winter seed stalks cut back in winter if needed
White
Muhly, Big Sun/Part Clumping, blue-green grass; smaller native alternative to Pampasgrass; featherlike blooms in
E 3-4' 3-4' D Fall flowers on L-M x
Muhlenbergia lindheimeri Shade fall; provides seeds, denning and nesting material; rake or cut back in winter
6' stalk
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Ornamental Grasses
Deer Muhly Gulf Muhly Pine Muhly Sideoats Grama
Switchgrass Alamo Vine Carolina Jessamine

Vines
Fig Vine Coral Honeysuckle Crossvine

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Feathery
Muhly, Deer Sun/Part Tidy clump grass that maintains a round shape; commercial availability may be limited; cut
T 1-1.5' 1-1.5' D Fall seed L x
Muhlenbergia rigens Shade back in winter
heads
Muhly, Gulf Sun/Part Pink seed

T 2-1/2' 2' D Fall L-M x Wispy seed heads provide great fall color, especially when backlit; cut back in winter
Muhlenbergia capillaris Shade heads
Feathery
Muhly, Pine
T 1-3' 1-3' Sun D Fall seed VL x Nicely shaped bunchgrass; stiff needles; no maintenance required
Muhlenbergia dubia
heads
Sideoats Grama Sun/Part One-sided State grass of Texas; side hanging seed pods; easy to grow from seed; drought tolerant; cut
T 2-3' 1' D Fall L x
Bouteloua curtipendula Shade seed head back to 6” height in winter prior to new spring growth
Upright, habit; tall seed heads in fall; usually has a reddish tint; prefers moist areas; prairie
Switchgrass Sun/Part Reddish
B/E 6' 4' D Fall L-H x plant appropriate in mass plantings in meadow, natural areas or wetlands; reseeds; cut back
Panicum virgatum Shade tint
to 8” height in winter prior to new spring growth; numerous cultivars available
Vines
Vines
Vines Most vines prefer their roots to be shaded while the vegetation grows in dappled light to full sun.
White Fast-growing, twining vine; easy to grow from seed; tolerates poor soil and alkaline soil but
Alamo Vine Sun/Part Spring -
E 12' 10-12' D flowers w/ L-M needs good drainage; spreads by rhizomes; poisonous seed; blooms in afternoon; nectar for
Merremia dissecta Shade fall
red throat butterflies; prune to direct and control growth
Carolina Jessamine Sun/Part Early Yellow Twining vine; fragrant; attracts hummingbirds; prefers even soil moisture so is not suited for
T 6-20' E M x
Gelsemium sempervirens Shade spring flowers rain gardens; poisonous if ingested
Crossvine Sun/Part Spring - Orange Tendril vine attaches to wall; very aggressive climber; 'Tangerine Beauty' variety has bright
T 6-30'+ SE L x
Bignonia capreolata Shade summer flowers coral blooms; attracts hummingbirds and bees; prune to direct and control growth
Vine attaches to wall; very aggressive; not recommended for wood structures; do not plant
Fig Vine Sun/Part Spring - Green
6-30'+ SE M near preserves; free of insects and diseases; susceptible to hard freezes; prune to direct and
Ficus pumila Shade fall leaves
control growth
Late
Honeysuckle, Coral Sun/Part winter Coral Twining vine for smaller structures; nectar attracts hummingbirds and butterflies;
T 6-12' SE to early L-M x
Lonicera sempervirens Shade flowers fruit attracts birds; prefers fertile, moist soil; prune to direct and control growth
spring
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Vines
Star Jasmine Mexican Flame Vine Passion Vine Lady Banksia Rose
Virginia Creeper Texas Wisteria

Groundcover
Trumpet Vine Aztec Grass Clover Fern Gregg Dalea

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Jasmine, Star
Sun/Part Spring - White Fragrant blooms; glossy leaves; poisonous if ingested; aggressive in shady areas; do not plant
Trachelospermum 20' 12-16' E L
Shade summer flowers near preserves; prune to direct and control growth
jasminoides
Mexican Flame Vine Non-aggressive twining vine with thick glossy leaves; provides quick cover for chainlink
Sun/Part Spring - Orange
Pseudogynoxys 10'+ D L x fence; dies back in severe winter; attracts bees, butterflies, and birds; prune to
Shade fall flowers
chenopodioides direct and control growth
Early
Passion Vine Sun/Part Lavender Tendril vine; perennial; food for several species of butterfly larva; exotic-looking flower;
T 6-15' D spring - L-M x
Passiflora incarnata Shade summer flowers aggressive growth; spreading; prune to direct and control growth
Fast-growing, climbing rose; needs sturdy support and lots of space so not suited for rain
Rose, ‘Lady Banksia’ White to
20+' Sun E Spring M gardens;thornless, disease free; white flowers are fragrant; prune after spring bloom to
Rosa banksiae yellow
control and direct growth
Reddish- Not recommended for wood structures; attracts hummingbirds; aggressive spreader; plant
Trumpet Vine Sun/Part
B/E 6-40'+ D Summer orange L x where roots can be confined; 'Madame Galen' and 'Georgia' have larger blooms; prune to
Campsis radicans Shade
flowers direct and control growth
Virginia Creeper
Sun/Part Scarlet fall Vigorous vine or groundcover; not recommended for wood structures; pest free; many birds
Parthenocissus B/E to 40'+ D Fall L x
Shade foliage eat fruit; fruit is poisonous
quinquefolia
Wisteria, Texas Sun/Part Bluish-lilac High heat tolerance; fragrant; plants can become chlorotic on alkaline soils; flowers attract
T 25-30' 3-6' D Spring M x
Wisteria frutescens Shade flowers several insect species; prune to direct and control growth
Groundcovers
Some groundcovers are great turf alternatives. They are most effective in large masses to form a solid cover on the ground. Most are
Groundcovers
Groundcovers very low maintenance.Plants that prefer Low (L) and Very Low (VL) water can be used in a rain garden if the soil is fast draining and
they don’t sit in water for an extended period. Rain garden plant success depends on the soil, how fast it drains and if the plants are
in their preferred growing conditions
Aztec Grass Year Variegated Clumping grass-like groundcover; similar to Liriope with white variegated leaves; no pests or
1' 1-1.5' Shade E M
Ophiopogon intermedius round foliage diseases; variety of cultivars available - check label for specifics; no pruning necessary
Clover Fern Sun/Part Spring - Grayish Tough groundcover with clover-like leaves; does not require much water but likes it; spreads
T 6"-1' 2' D L
Marsilea macropoda Shade fall leaves by runners; dies back during severe winters; no pruning necessary
Dalea, Gregg Summer Purple Good for slopes; silvery blue-green leaves; dry soil; winter-hardy; mostly fall flowers attract
T 6”-1’ 2-4'' Sun SE L x
Dalea greggii - fall flowers bees and butteflies; seeds eaten by birds and small mammals; pruning not necessary
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Groundcovers
Frogfruit Creeping Germander Golden Groundsel Horseherb
Iceplant Leadwort Plumbago Liriope
Monkey Grass Mountain Pea Oregano Pigeonberry

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Frogfruit Sun/Part Spring - Native groundcover; spreads rapidly; small flower; larval host plant to butterflies; can tolerate
B/E 6-8" 1.5-2' D White L-M x
Phyla nodiflora Shade fall poor drainage; commercial availability may be limited; cut back to 3" in winter
Pink and
Germander, Creeping Low mounding form; silver foliage; attracts bees; dark green cultivar available; requires well-
4-6" 1.5-2' Sun E Summer purple L x
Teucrium cossonii drained soil; pruning not necessary
flowers
Golden Groundsel
Yellow Colonizes and spreads by runners but is easy to control; blooms in spring; is an evergreen
(Round-leaf ragwort) E 1.5' 1-2' Shade E Spring L-M x
flowers rosette most of the year; attracts butterflies; pruning not necessary
Packera obovata
Recommended for revegetation; tolerates some foot traffic; great for dry shade; naturally
Horseherb Sun/Part Spring - Yellow
B/E 8-10" 1' SE VL x abundant in shady areas and lawns - but limited commercial availabilty; can mow as needed
Calyptocarpus vialis Shade fall flowers
to maintain preferred height
Iceplant
purple to Iceplant is the common name for 3 generas; fast-growing, groundcover for hot, dry sites;
Aptenia spp. Spring-
6" 12" Sun SE yellow VL great for hanging baskets; has thick green succulent leaves; attracts bees and butterflies; no
Delosperma spp. fall
flowers pruning necessary
Malephora spp.
Leadwort Plumbago
Sun/Part Blue Deep blue flowers and green foliage with burgundy tinge in cool weather; attracts butterflies;
Ceratostigma 6-12" 3-5' D Summer L x
Shade flowers cut back if needed in winter
plumbaginoides
Liriope Sun/Part Purple Grass-like clumps of evergreen foliage; requires more water in sun; cultivars of varying height
12-18" 12" E Summer M
Liriope muscari Shade spikes available; check plant label for details; cut back in winter if needed
Monkey Grass Great lawn alternative in shade; provide fertile, well-drained soil; clusters of flowers close to
Year Green
(Mondo Grass) 4-8" 12+" Shade E M the leaves; dwarf form also available; do not plant near preserves; needs even moisture so
round foliage
Ophiopogon japonicus not suited for rain gardens; cut back in winter if needed
Loose-textured, fast-growing, spreading groundcover; attracts bees; good substitutue for

Mountain Pea Sun/Part Purple
T 8-12" 2-3' SE Spring L x Asian Jasmine; limited commercial availability; native to east and southeast Texas;
Orbexilum pedunculatum Shade flowers
shear occasionally to promote compact growth
Oregano White to Sprawling plant; pungently aromatic; attracts bees; flavorful leaves used in cooking;
10"-2' 2' Sun E Summer L-M x
Origanum vulgare rosy pink cut back to 3"in winter if needed
Pigeonberry Spring - White/pink Spreads rapidly; tolerates moist or dry soil; tiny attractive red berries are prized by birds; may
B/E 1-1.5' 2' Shade D M x
Rivina humilis fall flowers go dormant in summer; limited commercial availability; prune for natural look
47
Groundcover
Purple Heart Lyre Leaf Sage Santolina Sedges
Sedum (varieties) Silver Ponyfoot Snakeherb
Verbena Violet Wavy Scaly Cloak Fern Wooly Stemodia

48
Groundcovers
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Purple
Requires more water in sun but very drought tolerant once established; roots may rot in
Purple Heart Sun/Part Spring - leaves
1' 3' D L poorly drained soil, so not suited to rain gardens; not fully cold hardy in severe winter unless
Setcreasea pallida Shade fall w/pink
in protected location; prune to direct and control growth
flowers
White to
Sage, Lyre Leaf Sun/Part purplish Great for dry shade but can grow in full sun; reseeds easily so may move in garden; attracts
T 1-2' 1' E Spring L-M x
Salvia lyrata Shade blue hummingbirds, bees, and butterflies
flowers
Santolina
(Lavender Cotton) Yellow Shrubby groundcover; fine-textured, aromatic evergreen foliage; attracts bees;
1-2' 1-2' Sun E Spring VL x
Santolina flowers requires excellent drainage; not long-lived; green leaf species also available
chamaecyparissus
Grassy, clumplike foliage; plant in masses for groundcover; Berkeley (C. tumicola);
Sedges Sun/Part Year Evergreen most
varies varies E Meadow (C. perdentata); Texas, (C. texensis); check label for specifics on height, hardiness
Carex spp. Shade round leaves are L
and water needs; no pruning necessary
Sedum (Stonecrop) Sun/Part Succulent plants with many species, leaf types, flower colors; check label for specifics; good
6" 1' E Summer White L
Sedum spp. Shade drainage required; withstands shallow, poor soil; no pruning necessary
Silver Ponyfoot Sun/Part Year Silver-gray Attractive silver gray foliage on low-growing runners; good drainage is critical; do not over
T 2-4" 2.5' SE L x
Dichondra argentea Shade round leaves water; native to west Texas; no pruning required
Late
Snakeherb Sun/Part Lavender Prefers dry caliche soils; upright stems, blooms mainly in spring but on/off through fall after
T 6-12" 1.5' E spring - L x
Dyschoriste linearis Shade summer flowers rain; attracts butterflies; no pruning required
varies Spreading habit; fine-textured leaves; needs good drainage; attracts butterflies; there are
Spring -
Verbena spp. up to varies Sun SE varies L x many types of verbenas available commercially so check labels for details; native Praire
fall
18" Verbena is V.bipinnatifida; cut back to 3" if needed in winter
Violets Violet
T 4-6" 8-10" Shade D Spring L-M x Reseeds easily; will move around in garden; lighter purple bloom than houseplant
Viola missourensis flowers
Wavy Scaly Cloak Fern Sun/Part Spring - Feathery Xeric fern; drought tolerant; low water use; heat and cold tolerant; may go partially dormant
T 1' 3' SE L
Astrolepis sinuata Shade fall fronds with less water; no pruning needed
Wooly Stemodia Sun/Part Purple Delicate purple blooms contrast with gray foliage; good cascading plant for pots; needs good
T 4-10” 3'+ D Summer L x
Stemodia lanata Shade blooms drainage; prune unattractive foliage
49
Sustainable landscape practices promote reducing turfgrass use because of its potential high water use and higher maintenance from mowing and nutritional
Turfgrasses
needs. If you decide to use turf then choose it wisely and keep the area small. If you decide not to use turf consider using one of the groundcovers listed in
this guide as a lawn alternative. If you already have a lawn, check out the Grow Green Lawn Care and Lawn Problems fact sheets.
No turfgrass is perfect for all sites in Central Texas. Austin Water restrictions may be more limiting during times of drought so it is best to select one of the
warm-season grasses listed below. During extended periods of drought these grasses will turn brown and go dormant but will green up after enough rain.
Turfgrass species and variety selection depends largely on the following considerations:
• Water use • Soil depth and quality: Regardless of the species, to use the
least amount of water you must provide at least 4-6” of
• Amount of sun or shade tilled, or otherwise un-compacted soil, which will encourage
turfgrasses to develop deep, extensive root systems that allow
• Use and how much foot traffic it will receive them to persist. If you have a site with limited or compacted
soil, suitable turfgrass quality may be difficult to maintain
• Maintenance requirements during periods of drought.
What are the most common types of soil in the Austin area?
There are three main types:

1. Western Zone, Edwards Plateau: On the rocky hills west of
MOPAC/Loop One on the west side of town are highly alkaline
limestone and caliche soils that are shallow and often with exposed
rock. In those areas the soil depth can be a matter of inches.
2. Intermediate Zone, Combination and Disturbed Soils: In the
central parts of Austin (running north and south) where the Eastern
and Western Zones intersect and overlap there are intermediate ar-
eas that are a mix of shallow to moderately deep soils intermingled
in areas with soil brought in during construction. Due to the poten-
tial variability, identify specific soil types on your site to determine
your best approach.
3. Eastern Zone, Blackland Prairie: Generally east of IH 35 is the
beginning of the deep, dark, clay prairie soils. Due to their tiny
particle sizes, heavy clay soils do not have a lot of air spaces and
typically do not drain very quickly. Adding compost or expanded
shale improves aeration and drainage.
50
Warm-season Turfgrasses from Low to Medium water use:
Buffalograss
Turfgrasses
Buchloe dactyloides
Very low water use / Full sun / Tolerates light foot traffic
It does not have a dense canopy so it is more susceptible to weed invasions than other turfgrasses. Fewer weeds will invade with a more
natural look by mowing 2 to 4 times per year on the highest mowing height adjustment. It does best in areas with 25 inches or less of
annual rainfall. Overseeding turf or mixing the seed with other shortgrass species is one way to produce a denser turf.
See Shortgrass Prairie Seed Mixes
Sod: ‘609’, ‘Density’, ‘Prairie’, ‘Prestige’
Seeds: Common, ‘Texoka’, ‘Bison’, ‘Bowie’, ‘Comanche’, ‘Topgun’
Shortgrass Prairie Seed Mixes

Low water use / Full sun / Tolerates light foot traffic
Several commercial native seed mixes are available that combine Buffalograss, Buchloe dactyloides, Curly Mesquite, Hilaria
belangeri and Blue Grama Grass, Bouteloua gracilis; short wildflowers can also be added to create a short-grass meadow.
Seeds: Native grasses (wildflowers) mix
Bermudagrass hybrids that do not produce viable seed

Low-medium water use / Full sun / Tolerates high foot traffic.
Bermudagrass produces a dense canopy and is the most widely used turfgrass species for golf course and athletic turf in the southern United States. It is also
popular for home lawns. The hybrids have a finer leaf texture than common types and create a denser turf that performs better under more frequent use, mowing,
watering and fertilization. Hybrid varieties of Bermudagrass (interspecific crosses of C. dactylon and C. transvaalensis) are most often planted as sod and produce
seedheads that are sterile. As a result, most hybrids do not pose the same invasive threat as Common Bermuda types and are preferred for use in the landscape. All
Bermudagrass varieties have the potential to be invasive to neighboring plant beds and gardens due to their aggressive growth from rhizomes and stolons.
Sod, plugs or sprigs: ‘Celebration’, ‘GN1’, ‘Grimes EXP’, ‘Tex Turf’, ‘TifSport’, ‘Tifway 419’
Special Note: Common Bermuda, Cynodon dactylon, is listed as one of Austin’s Top 24 Invasive Plants in the City’s Invasive Species Management Plan and is not
accepted for Austin Water landscape rebates. It is not recommended for use in home lawns. Common Bermudagrass, as well as improved varieties of Common, that
are left unmowed produce viable seeds that can escape the garden and invade natural areas. Bermudagrass seed and sod are listed in the City of Austin Environmental
Criteria Manual, (used for commercial development only), to stabilize the soil and to reduce damages from sediment and runoff to downstream areas.
Zoysiagrass
(Zoysia japonica):
Low - medium water use / Full sun or partial shade / Tolerates some foot traffic.
Zoysiagrass spreads by rhizomes and stolons producing a dense turf. Within the zoysiagrass genus, japonica species are typically coarse-textured while
matrella species are typically finer textured. However, much like Bermudagrass there are also interspecific crosses of each. Zoysiagrasses require less mowing
and fertilization than Bermudagrass and are often considered lower maintenance for those reasons. It is best established from sod due to slow germination
and growth that make it difficult to establish from seed. Like Bermudagrass, be sure to stay ahead of the rhizome and stolon growth into planting beds as it is
wicked to try and eradicate if it is left to invade. It is slower than Bermudagrass in invading but will do so… and even in shaded beds!
Sod: ‘Palisades’, ‘Jamur’, ‘El Toro’, or ‘Crowne’
Seed: ‘Zenith’ and ‘Compadre’ 51
Frequently Asked Questions Where can I get information about rain gardens and rain garden plants?
A rain garden is a low vegetated area that adsorbs and filters rainwater runoff from, roofs, sidewalks and driveways. Many of the plants fea-
tured in this guide can be expected to grow successfully in a residential rain garden. Plants that are not recommended are those that typical-
ly grow in the shade and need consistent soil moisture, require deep soil or have some an undesirable plant characteristic (short-lived, weak
wood, plants that have spines or fruit that falls on pavement and any that are considered invasive).
How much rainfall does Austin receive per year?
On average 32 inches of rain per year with very little in summer.
How hot and cold does it get?
Heat: The average temperature highs in the summer months are above 90o F, so plants that need cool summer temperatures, like peonies,
lilacs or fuchsias, will not do well here. Summer heat is the biggest stress when planting, so the best time to plant is the fall; worst time to plant
late spring – summer.
Cold: Austin is in Zone 8b where the average extreme minimum is 15 – 20o F. Our temperatures don’t usually go below 20o F – but in severe
winters they can. Plants that are susceptible to damage in severe winters should be planted in protected areas, such as on the south or west
side of your house, and well-mulched before cold weather arrives.
Why was the Deer Resistance rating removed from this version of the guide?
This rating was removed from this version because after consulting numerous information sources it is clear that there is very little consensus
on which plants specifically are “deer resistant.” To be safe, all woody plants in areas with deer need to be protected when the plants are
young and until they can grow above the browse line.
Plant characteristics that may deter deer:
• Aromatic plants like rosemary, most of the salvias and lantanas
• Prickly, spiny or thorny foliage or stems like agarita, cactus, sotols (deer often eat the flowers)
• Bad-tasting sap like star jasmine
• Fuzzy leaves like Texas sage and lamb’s ear
• Other approaches to deter deer include fencing, repellents and scare devices.
Where can I find out more information about which plants to choose when designing a fire-resistant landscape?
Building a fire-resistant landscape isn’t as simple as only looking at plant selection. It includes a variety of factors from the slope of the land-
scape, building materials in and around the home to choosing the right plant for the right location. For more details on determining the right
plant for the right place and how you can help build defensible space around your home
visit: www.austintexas.gov/WildfireEnviroBMPs
Where can I find more information about plants that are poisonous to humans and pets?
This guide includes some comments on plants’ toxicity but it should not be considered exhaustive resource on the topic.
For poisoning emergencies call the American Association of Poison Control Centers at (800) 222-1222
52 For more information on common plants that are poisonous to animals visit www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control/toxic-and-non-toxic-plants
You may also call ASPCA Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 (there may be a consulting fee).
AUSTIN’S TOP INVASIVE PLANTS TO AVOID
Plants to Avoid
Invasive plants spread into areas where they are not native. Their introduction causes or is
likely to cause economic or environmental harm or harm to human health.
The following plants have already invaded preserves and greenbelts in Austin. They spread by
These plants travel by runners and rhizomes. While they are
seeds, berries and spores that can be easily transported long distances. For more information
not generally transported long distances, they can invade
about Austin’s invasive species, visit www.austintexas.gov/invasive
nearby or “downstream” areas. Avoid planting near parks
and preserves.
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Bermudagrass, Common Cynodon dactlyon Hybrid Bermudgrasses (with sterile seeds)
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Catclaw Vine Macfadyena unguis-cati Carolina Jessamine, Crossvine
Leadwort Plumbago,
Chinaberry Melia azedarach Chinquapin Oak, Texas Red Oak English Ivy Hedera helix
Mountain Pea
Chinese Parasol Tree Firmiana simplex Arizona Cypress
Vinca major & Leadwort Plumbago,
Chinese Pistache Pistacia chinensis Chinquapin Oak, Texas Red Oak Vinca
V. minor Mountain Pea
Chinese Tallow Triadica sebifera Bigtooth Maple, Texas Redbud, Red Oak
Wisteria Wisteria sinensis,
Chinese Wisteria Wisteria sinensis Passion Vine Passion Vine
(non-native species) W. floribunda
Elephant Ear Colocasis esculenta Arrowhead, Crinum Lily, Tuckahoe
Golden Bamboo Phyllostachys aurea Evergreen Yaupon, Bamboo Muhly
Japanese Hollyfern Cyrtomium falcatum River Fern
Japanese Honeysuckle Lonicera japonica Coral Honeysuckle
Johnsongrass Sorghum halepense Little Bluestem, Bushy Bluestem
Kudzu Pueraria montana var. lobata Virginia Creeper
Lilac Chaste Tree Vitex agnus-castus Mexican Buckeye
Paper Mulberry Broussonetia papyrifiera Cherry Laurel, Texas Persimmon
Phontina, Red Tip Photinia x fraseri Cherry Laurel, Possumhaw, Silktassel
Photina, Tawainese Photinia serratifolia Cherry Laurel, Possumhaw, Silktassel
Privets, Large Leaf Ligustrum japonicum, Cherry Laurel, Yaupon
L. lucidum, L. vulgare
Privets, Small Leaf Ligustrum quhoui, L. sinense Possumhaw, Wax Myrtle, Yaupon
Sacred Bamboo Nandina domestica Bush Germander, Texas Sage
Already have these plants?
Scarlet Firethorn Pyracantha coccinea Evergreen Sumac, Yaupon Most plants can be controlled by trimming
Tree of Heaven Ailanthus altissima Chinquapin Oak, Lacey Oak back berries, seedheads or runners.
THIS PLANT LIST IS ONLY A RECOMMENDATION AND HAS NO LEGAL EFFECT IN THE STATE OF TEXAS. IT IS LAWFUL TO
SELL, DISTRIBUTE, IMPORT OR POSSESS A PLANT ON THIS LIST UNLESS THE TEXAS DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
53
LABELS THE PLANT AS NOXIOUS OR INVASIVE ON THE DEPARTMENT’S PLANT LIST.
Common Name Page #
Abelia, Glossy 15 Cuphea, ‘David Verity’ 27 Horseherb 47 Passion Vine 45 Santolina (Lavender Cotton) 49
Common Name
Agarita 15 Cypress, Arizona 7 Huisache 11 Pecan 9 Sedge, Meadow 41
Agave spp. 39 Cypress, Bald 7 Hymenoxys (Four Nerve Daisy) 31 Penstemon, Gulf Coast 33 Sedges 49
Alamo Vine 43 Cypress, Montezuma 7 Iceplant 47 Penstemon, Hill Country 33 Sedum (Stonecrop) 49
American Beautyberry 15 Daisy, Blackfoot 27 Indiangrass 41 Penstemon, Rock 33 Senna, Flowering 23
Anacacho Orchid Tree 9 Daisy, Chocolate 27 Indigo Spires 31 Persimmon, Texas 13 Senna, Lindheimer 37
Anacua (Sandpaper Tree) 9 Daisy, Copper Canyon 27 Inland Seaoats 41 Phlox, Garden 33 Shrimp Plant 37
Apache Plume 15 Daisy, Engelmann 27 Iris, Bicolor 31 Pigeonberry 47 Sideoats Grama 43
Aralia, Japanese 17 Dalea, Black 17 Japanese Yew 19 Pineapple Guava 21 Silktassel, Mexican 13
Arroyo Sweetwood 9 Dalea, Gregg 45 Jasmine, Star 45 Pittosporum 21 Silver Ponyfoot 49
Artemisia 25 Damianita 29 Kidneywood 11 Plumbago 33 Skeletonleaf Goldeneye 37
Ash, Texas 7 Datura (Jimson Weed) 29 Lamb’s Ear 31 Plum, Mexican 13 Skullcap, Heartleaf 37
Aztec Grass 45 Desert Broom 17 Lantana (hybrid) 31 Pomegranate 13 Skullcap, Pink 37
Baptisia, Purple (Wild Indigo) 17 Desert Willow 11 Lantana, Texas 31 Primrose, Missouri 35 Skullcap, Wright’s Purple 37
Barbados Cherry 17 Elbow Bush 17 Lantana, Trailing 33 Purple Coneflower 35 Skyflower, Duranta 23
Basket Grass (Sacahuista) 39 Elm, Cedar 7 Leadwort Plumbago 47 Purple Heart 49 Snakeherb 49
Beebalm 25 Esperanza (Yellow Bells) 29 Lion’s Tail 33 Redbud, Mexican 13 Society Garlic 37
Bird of Paradise, Red 25 Eve’s Necklace 11 Liriope 47 Redbud, Texas 13 Sotol, Texas 39
Bird of Paradise, Yellow 25 Fall Aster 29 Mallow, Globe 19 Retama 13 Spider Lily 37
Black-eyed Susan 25 Fern, Firecracker 29 Maple, Bigtooth 7 Rock Rose 35 Spiderwort 39
Bluestem, Little 41 Fern, River 29 Maximilian Sunflower 33 Rose, ‘Belinda’s Dream’ 21 Sumac, Evergreen 13
Bottlebrush 17 Fig Vine 43 Mexican Flame Vine 45 Rose, ‘Cecile Brunner’ 21 Sumac, Flameleaf 15
Buckeye, Mexican 9 Firebush 29 Mexican Mint Marigold 33 Rose, ‘Grandma’s Yellow’ 21 Sumac, Fragrant (Aromatic) 23
Buckeye, Red 11 Flame Acanthus 17 Mistflower, White 19 Rose, ‘Knock Out’ 21 Sweet Almond Verbena 23
Bulbine 25 Fragrant Mimosa 19 Mock Orange 19 Rose, ‘Lady Banksia’ 45 Switchgrass 43
Butterfly Bush, Wooly 17 Frogfruit 47 Monkey Grass 47 Rose, ‘Livin’ Easy’ 21 Sycamore, Mexican 9
Texas Betony 39
Butterfly Weed, Mexican 25 Frostweed 29 Mountain Laurel 13 Rose, ‘Marie Daly’ 21
Thyrallis, (Golden Showers) 23
Cactus, Prickly Pear 39 Gaura 29 Mountain Pea 47 Rose, ‘Marie Pavie’ 21
Trumpet Vine 45
Calylophus 25 Gayfeather 29 Muhly, Bamboo 41 Rose, ‘Martha Gonzales’ 21
Turk’s Cap 23
Carolina Buckthorn 11 Germander, Bush 19 Muhly, Big 41 Rose, ‘Mutabilis’ 21
Verbena spp. 49
Carolina Jessamine 43 Germander, Creeping 47 Muhly, Deer 43 Rose, ‘Nearly Wild ‘ 23
Viburnum, Rusty Blackhaw 15
Cast Iron Plant 25 Germander, Green 31 Muhly, Gulf 43 Rose, ‘Old Blush’ 23
Viburnum, Sandankwa 15
Catmint 25 Ghost Plant 31 Muhly, Pine 43 Rosemary, Upright 23
Violets 49
Cedar, Eastern Red 7 Goldenball Leadtree 11 Nolina 39 Roughleaf Dogwood 13
Virginia Creeper 45
Cherry, Black 7 Golden Groundsel 47 Oak, Bur 7 Ruellia, Dwarf 35
Walnut, Little 15
Cherry Laurel 11 Greek Myrtle 19 Oak, Chinquapin 7 Sage, Cedar 35 Wavy Scaly Cloak Fern 49
Chile Pequin 27 Gregg Mistflower 31 Oak, Lacey 9 Sage, Cherry (Autumn Sage) 35 Wax Myrtle 15
Clover Fern 45 Hawthorn, Indian 19 Oak. Mexican White 9 Sage, Jerusalem 35 Winecup, Perennial 39
Columbine 27 Hibiscus, Perennial 31 Oak, Southern Live 9 Sage, Lyre Leaf 49 Wisteria, Texas 45
Columbine, Red 27 Holly, Dwarf Burford 19 Oak, Texas Red 9 Sage, Majestic 35 Wooly Stemodia 49
Coralbean 27 Holly, Dwarf Yaupon 19 Obedient Plant, Fall 33 Sage, Mealy Blue 35 Xylosma 15
Coralberry 17 Holly, Nellie R. Stevens 19 Olive, Mexican 13 Sage, Mexican Bush 35 Yarrow 39
Coreopsis, Lance-leaf 27 Holly, Possumhaw 11 Oregano 47 Sage, Penstemon/Big Red Sage 35 Yucca, Paleleaf 41
Cotoneaster 17 Holly, Yaupon 11 Oregano, Mexican 33 Sage, Russian 37 Yucca, Red 41
Crape Myrtle 11 Honey Mesquite 7 Palmetto, Texas Dwarf 21 Sage, San Luis 37 Yucca spp. 41
54 Crossvine 43 Honeysuckle, Coral 43 Palmetto, Texas /Palm Texas 9 Sage, Texas 23 Yucca, Twistleaf 41
Cuphea, Batface 27 Honeysuckle, Mexican 31 Palm, Windmill 13 Sage, Tropical 37 Zexmenia 39
Botanical Name Page #
Botanical Name
Abelia x grandiflora 15 Coreopsis lanceolata 27 Lantana montevidensis 33 Philadelphus coronarius 19 Salvia greggii 35
Acacia farnesiana 11 Cornus drummondii 13 Lantana urticoides 31 Phlomis fruticosa 35 Salvia guaranitica 35
Acer grandidentatum 7 Cotoneaster spp. 17 Lantana x hybrida 31 Phlox paniculata 33 Salvia ‘Indigo Spires’ 31
Achillea spp. 39 Cuphea, ‘David Verity’ 27 Leonotis leonurus 33 Phyla nodiflora 47 Salvia leucantha 35
Aesculus pavia var. pavia 11 Cuphea llavea 27 Leucaena retusa 11 Phystostegia virginiana 33 Salvia lyrata 49
Agave spp. 39 Cupressus arizonica 7 Leucophyllum frutescens 23 Pittosporum tobira 21 Salvia microphylla 37
Ageratina havanensis 19 Dalea frutescens 17 Liatris mucronata 29 Platanus mexicana 9 Salvia penstemonoides 35
Aloysia virgata 23 Dalea greggii 47 Liriope muscari 47 Plumbago auriculata 33 Salvia roemeriana 35
Anisacanthus quadrifidus var. wrightii 17 Dasylirion texanum 39 llex vomitoria 11 Podocarpus macrophyllus 19 Santolina chamaecyparissus 49
Aptenia spp. 47 Datura wrightii 29 Lonicera sempervirens 43 Poliomintha longiflora 33 Schizachyrium scoparium 41
Aquilegia canadensis 27 Delosperma spp. 47 Mahonia trifoliata 15 Prosopis glandulosa var. glandulosa 7 Scutellaria suffrutescens 37
Aquilegia chrysantha var. ‘Hinkleyana’ 27 Dichondra argentea 49 Malephora spp. 47 Prunus caroliniana 11 Scutellaria wrightii 37
Artemisia ‘Powis Castle’ 25 Dietes bicolor 31 Malpighia glabra 17 Prunus mexicana 13 Scuttelaria ovata subsp. bracteata 37
Asclepias currasavica 25 Diospyros texana 13 Malvaviscus arboreus var. ‘Drummondii’ 23 Prunus serotina var. exima 7 Sedum spp. 49
Aspidistra elatior 25 Duranta erecta 23 Marsilea macropoda 45 Pseudogynoxys chenopodioides 47 Setcreasea pallida 49
Aster oblongifolium 29 Dyschoriste linearis 49 Melampodium leucanthum 27 Punica granatum 13 Sophora secundiflora 13
Astrolepis sinuata 49 Echinacea purpurea 35 Merremia dissecta 43 Quercus laceyi 9 Sorghastrum nutans 41
Baccharis sarothroides 17 Ehretia anacua 9 Mimosa borealis 19 Quercus macrocarpa 7 Stachys byzantina 31
Baptisa australis 17 Engelmannia peristenia 27 Monarda fistulosa 25 Quercus muhlenbergii 7 Stachys coccinea 39
Bauhinia lunarioides 9 Erythrina herbacea 27 Morella cerifera 15 Quercus polymorpha 9 Styphnolobium affine 11
Berberis trifoliata 15 Eysenhardtia texana 11 Muhlenbergia capillaris 43 Quercus texana 9 Symphoricarpos orbiculatus 17
Berlandiera lyrata 27 Fallogia paradoxa 15 Muhlenbergia dubia 43 Quercus virginiana 9 Tagetes lemmonii 27
Bignonia capreolata 43 Fatsia japonica 17 Muhlenbergia dumosa 41 Raphiolepis indica 19 Tagetes lucida 33
Bouteloua curtipendula 43 Feijoa sellowiana 21 Muhlenbergia lindheimeri 41 Rhus aromatica 23 Taxodium distichum 7
Buddleja marrubiifolia 17 Ficus pumila 43 Muhlenbergia rigens 43 Rhus lanceolata 15 Taxodium mucronatum 7
Bulbine frutescens 25 Forestirera pubescens 17 Myrospernum sousanum 9 Rhus virens 13 Tecoma stans 29
Caesalpinia gilliesii 25 Frangula caroliniana 11 Myrtus communis 19 Rivina humilis 49 Tetraneuris scaposa 31
Caesalpinia pulcherrima 25 Fraxinus texensis 7 Nepeta x faassenii 26 Rosa banksiae 47 Teucrium chamaedrys 31
Callicarpa americana 15 Galphimia glauca 23 Nolina lindheimeriana 39 Rosa ‘Belinda’s Dream’ 21 Teucrium cossonii 47
Callirohoe involucrata 39 Garrya ovata spp. lindheimeri 13 Nolina texana 39 Rosa ‘Cecile Brunner’ 21 Teucrium fruticans 19
Callistemon citrinus 17 Gaura lindheimeri 29 Oenothera macrocarpa 35 Rosa ‘Grandma’s Yellow’ 21 Thelypteris kunthii 29
Calylophous berlanderieri 25 Gelsemium sempervirens 43 Ophiopogon intermedius 47 Rosa ‘Knock Out’ 21 Trachelospermum jasminoides 45
Calyptocarpus vialis 47 Graptopetalum paraguayense 31 Ophiopogon japonicus 47 Rosa ‘Livin’ Easy’ 21 Trachycarpus fortunei 13
Capsicum annuum 27 Hamelia patens 29 Opuntia spp. 39 Rosa ‘Marie Daly’ 21 Tradescantia spp. 39
Carex perdentata 41 Helianthus maximiliani 33 Orbexilum pedunculatum 47 Rosa ‘Marie Pavie’ 21 Tulbaghia violacea 37
Carex spp. 49 Hesperaloe parviflora 41 Origanum vulgare 47 Rosa ‘Martha Gonzales’ 21 Ulmus crassifolia 7
Carya illinoensis 9 Hibiscus spp. 31 Packera obovata 47 ‘Rosa ‘Mutablis’ 21 Ungnadia speciosa 9
Cassia corymbosa 23 Hymenocallis lirisome 37 Panicum virgatum 43 Rosa ‘Nearly Wild’ 23 Verbesina virginica 29
Cassia lindheimeriana 37 Ilex cornuta ‘Burfordii’ 19 Parkinsonia aculeata 13 ‘Rosa ‘Old Blush’ 23 Viburnum rufidulum 15
Ceratostigma plumbaginoides 47 Ilex cornuta ‘Nellie R. Stevens’ 19 Parthenocissus quinquefolia 46 Rosmarinus officinalis 23 Viburnum suspensum 15
Cercis canadensis var. ‘mexicana’ 13 Ilex decidua 11 Passiflora incarnata 45 Rudbeckia hirta var. pulcherrima 25 Viguiera stenoloba 37
Cercis canadensis var. ‘texensis’ 13 Ilex vomitoria ‘Nana’ 19 Pavonia lasiopetala 35 Ruellia brittoniana 35 Viola missourensis 49
Chasmanthium latifolium 41 Juglans microcarpa 15 Penstemon baccharifolius 33 Russelia equisetiformis 29 Wedelia texana 39
Chilopsis linearis 11 Juniperus virginiana var. ‘virginiana’ 7 Penstemon tenuis 33 Sabal minor 21 Wisteria frutescens 45
Chrysactina mexicana 29 Justicia brandegeana 37 Penstemon triflorus 33 Sabal Sabal texana or S. mexicana 9 Xylosma congestum 15
Conoclinium greggi 31 Justicia spicigera 31 Perovaskia atriciplifolia 37 Salvia coccinea 37 Yucca pallida 41
Cordia boissieri 13 Lagerstroemia indica 11 Phaeralcea ambigua 19 Salvia farinacea 35 Yucca rupicola 41
55
Yucca spp. 41
For additional earthwise landscaping information
and an online plant database, visit www.growgreen.org
#ATXGrowGreen
Photo Credits: (L) = large image (S)= small inset image (C) = cover Contributing Organizations: References:
Ray Mathews: Cover Far South Nursery: Arroyo Sweetwood American Society of Landscape Architects, Austin Bender. K. and Damude. N., Texas Wildscapes:
(L, S), Catmint (L), Desert Broom (L), Greek Myrtle (L), Mexican Parks Foundation, Capital Area Master Naturalists, Gardening for Wildlife, TWPD, 2007
Flame Vine (L) Mountain Pea (L, S), Texas Dwarf Palmetto (L), Countryside Nursery, Far South Growers, Keep Correll and Johnston, Manual of the Vascular
Roughleaf Dogwood (L), San Luis Sage (L), Sweet Almond Austin Beautiful, Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Plants of Texas, The University of Texas at Dallas,
Verbena (L), White Mistflower (L) Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, McNeal Growers, National Wildlife 1996
Federation, Native Texas Nursery, Texas A&M,
Center: Andy and Sally Wasowski: Alamo Vine (L), Apache The Great Outdoors, The Natural Gardener, Texas Simpson, Benny, A Field Guide to Texas Trees,
Plume (L), Beebalm (L), Flameleaf Sumac (S), Golden Groundsel A&M Extension Service/Travis County, TreeFolks, Texas Monthly Press Texas Monthly Press, 1988
(L), Huisache (L,S), Lyre Leaf Sage (S), Maximilian Sunflower (L), Turfgrass Producers of Texas Wasowski A. and Wasowski, S., Native Texas
Purple Baptisia (L), Snakeherb (L), Switchgrass (L); Joseph A. Plants Second Edition; Landscaping Region by
Marcus: Carolina Buckthorn (L), Datura (L), Lyre Leaf Sage (L), City Departments:
Region, Texas Monthly Press, 1997
Pine Muhly, Roughleaf Dogwood (L), Purple Wright’s Skullcap Austin Energy, Austin Resource Recovery, Austin
Water, Development Services Department, Office Comments:
(L), Wavy Scaly Cloak Fern (L); Lee Page: Mealy Blue Sage (L); We recognize that there are many other plants
Melody Lytle: Frostweed (S); Michael Dana: Spiderwort (L); of Sustainability, Parks and Recreation Department,
Public Works, Watershed Protection Department well deserving of selection and we welcome your
Myra B. Allison: Frostweed (L); Norman G. Flaigg: Little Walnut comments and suggestions regarding any new
(L, S); Paul Cox: Clover Fern (L); Ray Matthews: Crossvine (C); With special thanks to all the City of Austin staff past additions and changes you think would be useful.
and present, who have contributed to the guide Please call 512-974-2550 or email us through
R.W. Smith: Purple Baptisia (S); Rachel Cywinski: Anacua (L);
W.D. and Dolphia Bransford: Flameleaf Sumac(L), Spider Lily www.growgreen.org .
(L), Meredith O’Reilly: Anacua (S), Chocolate Daisy (L), Fragrant
Sumac(S), Gregg Mistflower (S), Mexican Buckeye (S), Mexican Maximum sales price
Olive (L,S), Tropical Milkweed(S) Native Texas Nursery: Eve’s outside Austin: $2.00
Necklace (L, S), Texas Redbud (L, S) Plant Resources Center and MAY NOT BE RESOLD FOR PROFIT
Bio406d at the University of Texas at Austin: Coralbean (S),
Elbowbush (L), Evergreen Sumac(L,S), Gayfeather (S), Indiangrass
5th Edition, 2014
Revised 2016
(S), Maximilian Sunflower (S), Texas Persimmon (S),Violets (L, S)
512-974-2550 512-854-9600 Recycled

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Native and Adapted

Find your perfect

an earthwise guide for Central Texas

Landscape Plants an earthwise guide for Central Texas

Texas Ash Eastern Red Cedar Black Cherry Arizona Cypress

Bald Cypress Montezuma Cypress Cedar Elm Honey Mesquite

Bigtooth Maple Bur Oak Chinquapin Oak

Lacey Oak Mexican White Oak Southern Live Oak*

Texas Palmetto Pecan Mexican Sycamore Texas Red Oak

Anacacho Orchid Anacua Arroyo Sweetwood Mexican Buckeye

Small Trees/Large Shrubs

Red Buckeye Carolina Buckthorn Cherry Laurel Crape Myrtle

Eve’s Necklace Goldenball Leadtree Possumhaw Holly

Dessert Willow Yaupon Holly Huisache Kidneywood

Mountain Laurel Mexican Olive Windmill Palm Texas Persimmon

Mexican Plum Pomegranate Mexican Redbud

Roughleaf Dogwood Mexican Silktassel Evergreen Sumac Retama

Flameleaf Sumac Rusty Blackhaw Viburnum Sandankwa Viburnum Little Walnut

Wax Myrtle Xylosma Abelia

Agarita American Beautyberry Apache Plum

Japanese Aralia Barbados Cherry Purple Baptisia Bottlebrush

Wooly Butterfly Bush Coralberry Cotoneaster

Desert Broom Elbow Bush Flame Acanthus Black Dalea

Thicket-forming, irregular-shaped shrub; use in natural areas or wildlife habitats; non-showy

Fragrant Mimosa Bush Germander Greek Myrtle Indian Hawthorne

Dwarf Burford Holly Dwarf Yaupon Holly Nellie R. Stevens Holly

Japanese Yew Globe Mallow White Mistflower Mock Orange

Holly, Nellie R. Stevens

Texas Dwarf Palmetto Pineapple Guava Pittosporum ‘Belinda’s Dream’ Rose

‘Cecile Brunner’ Rose ‘Grandma’s Yellow’ Rose ‘Knockout’ Rose

Rose, Belinda's Dream Spring - Pink

Rose, Cecile Brunner Spring - Pink

Rose, Knock Out Spring - Red

Rose, Livin' Easy Spring - Coral to

Flowering Senna Skyflower Fragrant (Aromatic) Sumac

Sweet Almond Verbena Thryallis (Golden Showers) Turk’s Cap

Rose, Old Blush Spring -

Turk's Cap Late Red

Artemesia Beebalm Yellow Bird of Paradise

Black-eyed Susan Bulbine Red Bird of Paradise

Mexican Butterfly Weed Calylophus Cast Iron Plant Catmint

Chile Pequin (Petin) Red Columbine Columbine

Coralbean Coreopsis Batface Cuphea Cuphea ‘David Verity’

26 Blackfoot Daisy Chocolate Daisy Copper Canyon Daisy Englemann Daisy

Late Red and

Daisy, Blackfoot White with

Fall Aster Firecracker Fern Esperanza River Fern

Firebush Frostweed Gaura Gayfeather

Green Germander Ghost Plant Gregg Mistflower Perennial Hibiscus

Mexican Honeysuckle ‘Indigo Spires’ Salvia Bicolor or Butterfly Iris

Lamb’s Ear Hymenoxys Lantana (hybrid) Texas Lantana

Indigo Spires Sun/Part Blue/

Trailing Lantana Lion’s Tail Maximillian Sunflower Mexican Mint Marigold

Rock Penstemon Garden Phlox Plumbago

Penstemon, Hill Country 1.5- Sun/Part Hot pink to

Penstemon, Rock Spring -

Missouri Primrose Purple Coneflower Rock Rose

Dwarf Ruellia Cedar Sage Cherry Sage Jerusalem Sage

Russian Sage San Luis Sage Tropical Sage Lindheimer Senna

Shrimp Plant Skeletonleaf Goldeneye Heartleaf Skullcap

Pink Skullcap Wright’s Purple Skullcap Society Garlic Spider Lily

Spiderwort Texas Betony Winecup Yarrow

Zexmenia Agave Basket Grass