PLANTS THAT THRIVE IN TEXAS

by Judy Allen, Master Gardener

We know a lot about how to protect ourselves during the heat. We use sunscreen; wear the correct clothing; monitor our sun exposure, and most importantly stay hydrated. Unfortunately, some plants need protection just like we do. They can’t move into the shade and grab a drink when the need arises. The good news is, we can choose plants that not only survive the Texas heat but thrive here.

By following these guidelines, you can improve your gardening success.

Mulch:

Mulch not only holds in that all important moisture but also prevents most weeds. Of course, if you have Bermuda grass, there will always be some necessary weeding! When using mulch around a tree, be sure to keep it 3-4 inches away from the trunk. Then add three inches all around the tree out to the dripline. Choose a natural mulch of cedar or pine bark. Plastic or rock mulches make the soil hotter and that’s the last thing we need in the summer in Texas. See the resources below for more ideas on mulching.

The tag says, “place in full sun”. Full sun is quite different in Texas than it is in, say, Michigan. Our plants always appreciate some late afternoon shade here in Texas. Giving your full sun plant at least 6 hours of morning sun will make them very happy.

Water Needs:

Many native and adapted plants can survive with little water once established. However, this takes time. At least one to two summer seasons of correct watering will help the new plants settle in. Even well-established plants, during times of drought, will need water to supplement some moisture and insure good plant health. Since most plants require soil that drains well, it's a good idea to check their moisture levels after planting. A moisture meter can be helpful if you are in doubt.

USDA Hardiness Zones:

Choosing perennials and shrubs that align with our hardiness zone -8b, can make a big difference in their success and survival. A plant may withstand our harsh summers, but can they take a huge drop in temperatures in the winter when we experience it? Choose plants that are well within our zone to be assured of a strong return in the spring. Keep in mind, that container plants need additional protection in the winter because their roots are exposed to ambient temperature. You may need to wrap them or shelter in a protected area. Moving them into a space that doesn’t freeze may be necessary for tender plants.

Pollinator Friendly:

Many of us are excited to have birds, hummingbirds, bees and butterflies in our garden. This is achieved by no (or very selective) use of pest control methods and our choice of plants in our landscape and garden. If this is important to you be sure to check the resources below for more information and check out plants designated by Texas A&M as Texas Superstars. They are particularly tolerant of our Texas climate.

See the list below for a few shrubs and perennials that thrive in our north Texas climate. There are so many more that this list to choose from. This is just a sampling of what is available.

• Mystic Spires, Blue Salvia- Salvia longispicata × farinacea

• Perennial Hibiscus- Hibiscus moscheutos

• Rose of Sharon- Hibiscus syriacus

• Trailing Lantana- Lantana montevidensis

• Turk’s Cap- Malvaviscus arboreus

• Purple Coneflower- Echinacea purpurea

• Flame Acanthus- Anisacanthus quadrifidus

• John Fanick Phlox- Phlox paniculata 'John Fanick'

• Henry Duelberg- Salvia farinacea 'Henry Duelberg'

• Gaura- Oenothera lindheimeri

• Heartleaf Skullcap- Scutellaria ovata

• Rock Rose- Pavonia lasiopetala

• Texas Bluestar- Amsonia ciliata

• Beardtongue-Penstemon ’Dark Towers’

• Bluebeard-Caryopteris × clandonensis

• American beautyberry- Callicarpa americana

These plants Texas Superstars, native or adapted plants. These plants tend to be drought tolerant and able to excel in our alkaline soils.

It would be impossible to list all the great plants that can thrive in our north Texas gardens. Some of these plants require some shade, and time to establish, but the reward will be long lasting. Please look at the resources below as you investigate a desired plant for your landscape. There are many plant finder resources to keep you busy. Always utilize university extension services, specialized botanical databases, and peer-reviewed forums. Search using a plant's scientific name for the most accurate information. Common names can be deceiving.