In Houston, Texas, there are several native plants that are well-suited to the region's climate and soil conditions. Here are some popular choices for landscaping:
1. Gulf Coast Muhly Grass (Muhlenbergia capillaris): This ornamental grass is known for its pinkish-purple plumes that appear in the fall. It is drought-tolerant and adds texture and movement to the landscape.
2. Texas Lantana (Lantana urticoides): This flowering shrub produces clusters of vibrant, multi-colored flowers throughout the growing season. It attracts pollinators like butterflies and is highly drought-tolerant.
3. Gregg's Mistflower (Conoclinium greggii): A perennial with clusters of blue or purple flowers, it is a great choice for attracting butterflies and other pollinators. It thrives in full sun to part shade and prefers well-draining soil.
4. Texas Sage (Leucophyllum frutescens): This evergreen shrub features silvery-gray foliage and produces vibrant purple flowers after rainfall. It is drought-tolerant and prefers full sun.
5. Mexican Feathergrass (Nassella tenuissima): This graceful, fine-textured grass adds movement and visual interest to the landscape. It is drought-tolerant and thrives in well-draining soil.
6. Flame Acanthus (Anisacanthus quadrifidus var. wrightii): This perennial shrub produces tubular, red-orange flowers that attract hummingbirds. It thrives in full sun to part shade and is drought-tolerant.
7. Blackfoot Daisy (Melampodium leucanthum): This low-growing perennial produces daisy-like white flowers with yellow centers. It is drought-tolerant and thrives in full sun.
8. Eastern Purple Coneflower (Echinacea purpurea): This native wildflower has purple-pink petals surrounding a spiky center. It attracts butterflies and bees and prefers full sun to part shade.
9. Texas Betony (Stachys coccinea): This herbaceous perennial produces spikes of bright red tubular flowers. It attracts hummingbirds and butterflies and prefers full sun to part shade.
10. Inland Sea Oats (Chasmanthium latifolium): This grass-like perennial features attractive seed heads that resemble flattened oats. It thrives in part shade to full shade and is adaptable to a variety of soil conditions.