Choosing Plants for Your Landscape Design

Designing a landscape in Texas requires consideration of the state's varied climate zones, from humid and wet in the east to dry and arid in the west. For a landscape that thrives throughout the year, it's crucial to select plants well-suited to Texas' climate. Check out the following sections to learn about some of the best plant choices for your Texas landscape.

Trees

While you’re designing your landscape, don’t forget about the trees. As they provide much-needed shade against the heat. There’s a range of options to choose from including:

Live Oak: A sturdy, evergreen tree that provides shade year-round, perfect for the Texas heat.

Texas Redbud: Offers beautiful spring blooms with minimal water requirements.

Pecan Tree: This type is known for providing not only a shady canopy but also a delicious snack.

Shrubs

Shrubs are a huge part of designing a successful xeriscape, as they help to provide shade, improve soil stability, enhance air quality, and create homes for all types of wildlife. Some great shrub options include:

Texas Sage: A drought-tolerant shrub that blooms with purple flowers after rain.

Yaupon Holly: An evergreen shrub that can be trimmed into a hedge, featuring bright red berries in winter.

Flame Acanthus: Helps to attract hummingbirds and butterflies with its red-orange tubular flowers.

Perennials

These are the anchors to any landscape, as they provide a habitat for pollinators and wildlife. There are many options to choose from, browse the following section to learn more:

Black-Eyed Susan: A hardy, drought-tolerant perennial that adds a splash of color with its yellow flowers.

Purple Coneflower: Adds color to your landscape with beautiful purple blooms and helps to attract pollinators like bees and butterflies.

Turk's Cap: Tends to thrive in shady areas and produces red flowers that attract hummingbirds.