Drought-Tolerant Plant Selections for Oklahoma E-1037
Oklahoma Cooperative Extension Services Division of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources Oklahoma State University
Table of Contents
About this Guide...................................................
page 2
Symbols.................................................................
page 3
Annuals..................................................................
page 4
Perennials..............................................................
page 10
Ornamental Grasses.............................................
page 20
Vines......................................................................
page 23
Groundcover.........................................................
page 25
Shrubs....................................................................
page 27
Trees.......................................................................
page 31
Turfgrasses............................................................
page 38
Index.......................................................................
page 40
Plan It!....................................................................
page 43
About this Guide
The City of Oklahoma City Utilities Department has partnered with the Oklahoma State University Department of Horticulture & Landscape Architecture and the Oklahoma Cooperative Extension Service to promote outdoor water conservation through proper outdoor watering and drought-tolerant landscaping. The plants listed in this guide are targeted for Oklahoma City specifically with many also suitable for the entire state of Oklahoma. All selections were chosen for their heat and drought tolerance as well as commercial availability. How to use this guide: This booklet is separated by annuals, perennials, ornamental grasses, vines, groundcover, shrubs, trees, and turfgrasses. Each plant is listed alphabetically by its scientific name within each category. There is also an index in the back listing the plants by common name. The mature height and width are listed, which should be kept in mind when planning a landscape. The growing conditions include light, water and soil pH requirements. Each plant has the season(s) of interest shown. This list also indicates whether each plant is native within Oklahoma, continental US, or outside of the continental US. Many plants listed are considerably more drought resistant when properly mulched. Consumers should note that some listed plant materials can be toxic to pets and humans when ingested. Some plants may cause dermal reactions. People with young children or pets that may ingest landscape plants should check with their garden center or nursery professional if potential toxicity is a concern. The following plant list is not comprehensive and many other plants not listed in this booklet may be appropriate for the landscape. Authors: Courtney L. Keck Samantha J. Snyder Hannah A. Wahlmeier Malarie J. Gotcher John M. Schroeder Mike Schnelle, PhD Justin Q. Moss, PhD
The City of
OKLAHOMA CITY UTILITIES DEPARTMENT
2 | About this Guide
Photos Courtesy of: Oklahoma State University Oklahoma Proven OKPLANTid.org The Prairie Project Ladybird Johnson Wildflower Center
Oklahoma State University Oklahoma Cooperative Extension Service
Symbols
Water Requirements*
Light Requirements Full Sun
Moderate
Full Sun to Partial Shade
Low
Partial to Full Shade
Very Low
Soil pH Requirements
Place of Origin
Acidic (Low pH)
L
Outside of US
Not Native
Neutral (pH 7.0)
N
Continental US
Native
Alkaline (High pH)
H
Oklahoma
Season of Interest Summer
SUM
Fall
FALL
Winter
WIN
Spring
SPR
All
ALL
Plant Size Height Width 3 | Symbols
OK-Native
*Water requirements can be drastically reduced by liberal use of mulch. Some plants listed are marginally xeric in the absence of mulch. For more information about mulch go to osufacts.okstate.edu and check out L-436 and HLA-6005.
Annuals Only
Summer Snapdragon Angelonia angustifolia
12-24”
12-24”
last through one growing season
SUM
pH:
N
Not Native
Continuous flowers through the season, won’t flower if over fertilized. Various flower colors available.
Wax Begonia Begonia spp.
8”
12”
SUM
pH:
4 | Annuals
Asparagus spp.
18-36”
18-36”
SUM
pH:
N
Not Native
Very tough, drought tolerant plant. Many varieties available. Plant may be brought indoors by fall to serve as a houseplant.
L
Not Native
Useful in shade and sun. Light requirements vary, depending on the selection. Blooms with minimal care.
Asparagus Fern
Ornamental Peppers Capsicum spp.
18”
12”
SUM
pH:
N
Native
Works well as a garden border or in containers. Attractive fruit add color and texture to the plant. Various colors available.
Indian Paintbrush Castilleja indivisa
12”
12”
SPR
pH:
L
OK-Native
Periwinkle Catharanthus roseus
8”
12”
SUM
pH:
N
Not Native
Self-sows freely; deadhead to prevent volunteer seedlings next season. Commercially available from seed.
Does not perform well in cold, wet soils. Various flower colors available.
Cockscomb
Spider Flower
Celosia spp.
12”
12”
SUM
pH:
N
Not Native
Good for sunny, dry borders. Plumes provide a very soft texture and brilliant color throughout the summer. Various flower colors available.
Cosmos
SUM
Cosmos spp.
18”
24”
pH:
24”
36”
SUM
pH:
N
Not Native
Taller varieties good for back of the border plantings. Flowers fully open in morning and evening.
N
OK-Native
Over fertilization and overwatering lead to fewer flowers. Various flower colors and heights available.
5 | Annuals
Cleome spp.
Silver FallsTM Dichondra Dichondra argentea ‘Silver Falls’
2-4”
Varies
SUM
pH:
H
Native
Accent for hanging baskets and containers. Round, silver foliage provides nice contrast for mixed containers.
Diamond Frost® Euphorbia Euphorbia graminea ‘Inneuphdia’
18”
24”
SUM
pH:
N
Snow-on-the-Mountain Euphorbia marginata
36”
Native
Works well in containers, may have problems in chronically wet soils.
24”
SUM
pH:
N
OK-Native
Attracts butterflies and can reseed aggressively.
f
Blue Daze
Evolvulus pilosus ‘Blue Daze’
12”
24”
SUM
pH:
N
OK-Native
Globe Amaranth Gomphrena globosa
12”
18”
SUM
pH:
N
Not Native
Use in a garden border, container, or as groundcover. True blue flowers until first frost.
Drought and heat tolerant. Flower heads are produced from summer until first frost. Flowers are easy to dry for “everlasting” arrangements.
Firebush
Helenium
Hamelia patens
30”
36”
SUM
Native
Attracts hummingbirds and butterflies. Leaves turn red during fall.
6 | Annuals
pH:
N
Helenium amarum ‘Dakota Gold’
12”
24”
FALL
pH:
N
OK-Native
Works well in beds, containers, rock gardens, and as an accent. Dakota Gold is an improved selection of an Oklahoma native.
Sunflower
Helianthus annuus
2-6’
6-12”
SUM
pH:
N
OK-Native
May repel certain insects. Taller varieties should be planted in an area that will be sheltered from strong winds.
Sweet Potato Vine Ipomoea batatas
18”
40”
SUM
pH:
Lupinus texensis
N
Not Native
6-12”
12-15”
Texas state flower. Most readily available by seed.
7 | Annuals
SPR
pH:
Helichrysum bracteatum
24”
12”
FALL
N
pH:
Not Native
High humidity, rainy conditions, and too much watering can harm the plant. Popular in dried arrangements.
This plant works well as an annual groundcover and in containers. Grows well in heat and humidity. Foliage Availalbe in several colors.
Texas Bluebonnet
Strawflower
N
OK-Native
Lantana Lantana camara
24”
36”
SUM
pH:
N
Not Native
Excellent performance under hot conditions; attracts butterflies. Various flower colors available.
Pentas Pentas lanceolata
24”
36”
SUM
pH:
N
Not Native
Can take cuttings at the end of the summer and will continue to bloom in a warm, south facing window. Does well in containers. Attracts butterflies.
Mexican Bush Sage Salvia leucantha
36”
48”
SUM
pH:
N
Not Native
Fan Flower Scaevola aemula
12”
12”
SUM
pH:
N
Not Native
Produces purple and white flower spikes that attract hummingbirds and butterflies. May overwinter.
Very low growing. Works well in hanging baskets. Plant has glossy leaves and continuous flowers. Also available in pink and white.
Dusty Miller
Marigold
Senecio cineraria
2’
2’
ALL
pH:
N
Not Native
SUM
Tagetes spp.
24”
36”
pH:
N
Not Native
Useful as an edging or in containers, may overwinter. Silver foliage useful for unique flower bed designs.
Popular choice for companion planting in vegetable gardens. Available in dwarf and tall selections.
Yellow Bells
Mexican Sunflower
Tecoma stans
4’
4’
SUM
pH:
N
Not Native
Attracts butterflies and hummingbirds. Tropical plant used as an annual in Oklahoma.
8 | Annuals
Tithonia rotundifolia
48”
36”
SUM
pH:
N
Native
Attracts butterflies. Very heat tolerant and makes an excellent background annual in the flower bed.
Purple Heart
Tradescantia pallida ‘Purpurea’
16”
12”
ALL
pH:
Not Native
Drought-tolerant. Easily propagated by cuttings. Cuttings can be overwintered. Container planters can be brought indoors during winter.
9 | Annuals
L
Mexican Zinnia Zinnia angustifolia
12”
12”
SUM
pH:
N
Not Native
Deadhead for continuous bloom. Colors available include white, yellow,pink, red or orange flowers. Does well in containers or boarders.
Perennials Plants
Yarrow
SUM
Achillea spp.
12”
that grow back every year
36”
pH:
N
OK Native
Works well as an edging or in mass grouping. Various colors available.
Parry’s Agave Agave parryi
12”
9”
ALL
Native
Plant has spines or sharp edges; site accordingly and use extreme caution when handling. Marginally winter hardy in Oklahoma.
10 | Perennials
pH:
Hyssop Agastache rupestris
24”
18”
FALL
pH:
N
Native
Attracts hummingbirds and butterflies. Aromatic foliage.
N
Arkansas Bluestar Amsonia hubrichtii
36”
36”
FALL
pH:
N
OK-Native
Blue flowers in early summer, foliage turns yellow/orange in the fall.
Eastern Red Columbine Aquilegia canadensis
2-3’
1-1.5’
SPR
pH:
H
OK-Native
Wormwood Artemisia spp.
24”
36”
A wonderful addition to native plant gardens, woodland gardens, cottage gardens, or naturalized areas.
Grown for its fine textured silver foliage.
Butterfly Weed
Japanese Painted Fern
Asclepias tuberosa
48”
36”
SUM
pH:
L
OK-Native
Attracts butterflies to the garden. Flowers followed by interesting seed pods.
Blue False Indigo Baptisia australis
36”
48”
ALL
pH:
11 | Perennials
12”
18”
pH:
N
Not Native
SUM
pH:
N
Not Native
Very low maintenance, contrasts well with many shade-loving plants.
N
OK-Native
Works well in the back of flower borders. Showy flowers followed by persistent seed pods for winter interest.
Athyrium nipponicum
FALL
Atlantic Camas Camassia scilloides
1.5’
2’
Looks best in mass plantings.
SPR
pH:
N
OK-Native
American Bellflower
Campanulastrum americanum
4-6’
18-24”
SUM
pH:
N
OK-Native
Snow-in-Summer Cerastium tomentosum
6”
12”
Self-sows freely; deadhead to prevent volunteer seedlings next season.
Prefers dry soil, root rot may occur on wet soils.
Hardy Plumbago
Hairy Lipfern
Ceratostigma plumbaginoides
8”
15”
FALL
pH:
N
Not Native
Cheilanthes lanosa
6”
14”
A good plant for inter-planting with spring bulbs. True blue flowers, bronze fall color. Excellent ground cover.
Works well in a rock or wall garden.
Coreopsis
Montbretia
SUM
Coreopsis spp.
18”
36”
pH:
OK-Native
Early summer blooms provide brilliant yellow color. Good for perennial borders and prairie gardens.
12 | Perennials
N
Crocosmia x curtonus ‘Lucifer’
2-4’
1-2’
SUM
pH:
N
Native
ALL
pH:
N
OK-Native
SUM
pH:
L
Not Native
Provides a tropical flare to the landscape. Mulch for enhanced winter hardiness.
Hardy Winter Cyclamen Cyclamen coum
12”
12”
WIN
pH:
N
Not Native
Fast growing.
Cyclamen hederifolium
4-6”
4-6”
FALL
Delphinium carolinianum ssp. virescens
9-12”
SPR
pH:
N
OK-Native
Bundleflower
Desmanthus illinoensis
2-4’
1.5-2’
ALL
Purple Coneflower
Myrtle Euphorbia
Echinacea purpurea
18”
SUM
pH:
N
OK-Native
Native to the tall grass prairie. Blooms attract birds and butterflies.
Euphorbia myrsinites
6”
12”
Excellent for rock gardens and green roofs.
pH:
N
OK-Native
Seeds are desirable for birds. Species is available by seed.
13 | Perennials
N
Not Native
This cool season plant will go dormant during hot weather and regrow in the fall.
24”
pH:
Fall bloomer, fits in well for a rock garden.
Carolina Larkspur 24-36”
Hardy Fall Cyclamen
FALL
pH:
N
Not Native
Blanket Flower Gaillardia spp.
12”
24”
SUM
pH:
N
OK-Native
Oklahoma state wildflower; attracts butterflies.
Oxeye Sunflower Heliopsis helianthoides
36-60”
24-48”
Hemerocallis spp.
12”
36”
SUM
pH:
N
30”
36”
SUM
pH:
Lenten Rose Helleborus orientalis
18”
Native
SUM
pH:
N
Native
18”
ALL
pH:
L
Not Native
Evergreen, blooms in winter.
N
Not Native
Hundreds to choose from, deadhead for rebloom. Foliage ranges from deciduous to nearly evergreen.
14 | Perennials
Gaura lindheimeri
Easily propagated by seed. Narrow foilage is quite showy.
Works well in the back of perennial borders. Deadhead for continuous bloom. Various cultivars available.
Daylily
Gaura
Red Yucca
Hesperaloe parviflora
36-48’’
24-36’’
All
pH:
Native
Heat and drought tolerant, red yucca is wonderful for rock gardens. Yellow flowering selctions also available.
N
Stonecrop Hylotelephium spectabile
18”
24”
FALL
pH:
N
36”
12”
pH:
L
Not Native
Avoid high nitrogen fertilizer. Various colors and flower forms available.
Red Hot Poker Kniphofia triangularis
24”
36”
pH:
N
OK-Native
SUM
pH:
Blue Star Kalimeris
FALL
12-18”
Not Native
Kalimeris incisa ‘Blue Star’
12-18”
pH:
N
Plants may self-seed in ideal growing conditions. Performs well in hot and humid summers.
N
Not Native
Great tolerance for drought and summer heat. Avoid wet, poorly drained soils.
15 | Perennials
3-6”
SUM
This plant is attractive to bees, butterflies and birds.
SUM
Iris spp.
Ipomopsis rubra
3-5’
Native
Plant alone or in combinations in borders or containers.
Iris
Red Texas Star
Prairie Blazing Star Liatris pycnostachya
24-48”
12-24”
SUM
pH:
L
OK-Native
Good tolerance for drought, summer heat, and humidity. Intolerant of wet soils in winter. Multiple species are native to Oklahoma.
Spotted Beebalm Monarda punctata
2-3’
15-18”
SUM
pH:
N
OK-Native
Deadhead flowers to prolong summer bloom. Aromatic foliage.
Evening Primrose Oenothera macrocarpa
9”
12”
SUM
Penstemon digitalis
pH:
N
OK-Native
36-48”
18-24”
Avoid wet, poorly drained soils. Attracts hummingbirds.
16 | Perennials
SUM
Nepeta x faassenii
24”
30”
SUM
pH:
N
Not Native
Thrives in heat and drought once established. Aromatic foliage.
Can work as a dense foliage groundcover in shade, but won’t bloom without adequate sunlight.
Foxglove Beardtongue
Catmint
pH:
Prickly Pear Opuntia macrorhiza
6-12”
6-12”
ALL
pH:
L
OK-Native
2-3 inch spines and tufts of bristles can be harmful to humans and pets. Spineless prickly pear are commercially available.
N
OK-Native
Mexican Beardtongue Penstemon mexicali
12-24”
12-24”
SUM
pH:
H
Not Native
Good tolerance for drought, summer heat, and humidity. Avoid wet, poorly drained soils.
Russian Sage Perovskia atriplicifolia
30”
24”
SUM
pH:
N
Not Native
Useful in the back of the border. Grey-green foliage, very ornamental.
Mexican Hat Ratibida columnifera
2-3’
1-1.5’
SUM
pH:
Rudbeckia hirta
N
OK-Native
18-36”
18-36”
SUM
pH:
12-24”
12-24”
SUM
pH:
L
OK-Native
Rosemary
Rosmarinus officinalis
6’
2-4’
SPR
pH:
H
Not Native
Works well in containers, may have problems in wet soils. Very fragrant foliage.
N
OK-Native
Can decline in above average summer temperatures; attracts butterflies.
17 | Perennials
Polystichum acrostichoides
Does not tolerate heavy clay soils or standing water.
Very tough, drought tolerant plant. A good selection for wildflower or prairie gardens. Most readily available by seed in garden centers.
Black-eyed Susan
Christmas Fern
Giant Coneflower Rudbeckia maxima
5’
3’
SUM
pH:
N
OK-Native
Attracts butterflies. Will self seed in ideal growing conditions. Flower stalks attract birds after blooming season. Dramatic, ornamental leaves.
Autumn Sage Salvia greggii
18”
SUM
18”
pH:
N
Santolina virens ‘Lemon Fizz’
18-24”
18-24”
Silphium laciniatum
4-6’
1.5-2’
SUM
pH:
N
Not Native
pH:
N
Not Native
FALL
Hens and Chicks Sempervivum spp.
4”
4”
ALL
pH:
N
Native
Performs well in pots, on rock walls and foreground of perennial beds. Plant will slowly horizontally spread and thus good for filling in areas.
pH:
N
OK-Native
Compass plant has a large, woody taproot that may reach down 15 ft.
18 | Perennials
24”
SUM
Very low growing, works well in hanging baskets
Drought and heat tolerant. Compact, rounded growing habit.
Compass Plant
Santolina chamaecyparissus
24”
Native
Attracts hummingbirds and butterflies
Lemon Fizz Santolina
Lavender Cotton
Dwarf Goldenrod
Solidago sphacelata ‘Golden Fleece’
12-18”
12-18”
FALL
pH:
Native
Good for erosion control, attracts butterflies. Pollen is normally not an allergen.
N
Lamb’s Ear Stachys byzantina
6-12”
12-15”
ALL
pH:
N
Not Native
Very tough, drought tolerant plant. Small hairs on the foliage provide a soft texture giving reason for its common name.
Verbena-on-a-Stick Verbena bonariensis
36”
24”
SUM
pH:
Viola pedata
N
Not Native
3-6”
3-6”
This plant is attractive to bees, butterflies, and birds.
19 | Perennials
SPR
pH:
Tradescantia ohiensis
2-3’
9-12”
SUM
pH:
N
OK-Native
When touched in the heat of the day, the flowers shrivel.
Blender plant to fill in gaps in the flower border. Profusely reseeds so plant accordingly.
Bird’s Foot Viola
Bluejacket
Verbena Verbena canadensis
4”
12”
SUM
pH:
N
OK-Native
Overwatering or poor air circulation will harm the plant. Various colors available.
L
OK-Native
Yucca
Yucca filamentosa
48”
36”
ALL
pH:
N
OK-Native
Adds unique vertical element to design. Evergreen foliage and seed pods offer winter interest.
Ornamental Grasses
Big Bluestem Andropogon geradii
3’
4’
and related species
ALL
pH:
N
OK-Native
Purple Three Awn Aristida purpurea
12-24”
12-24”
FALL
Good for erosion control; seeds attract song birds, good habitat for wildlife.
Sideoats Grama
Blue Grama
SUM
1.5-2.5’
OK-Native
1.5-2’
pH:
Often found growing with Little Bluestem (Schizachyrium scoparium). Does Not compete well with very tall grasses.
20 | Ornamental Grasses
H
Bouteloua gracilis
8- 24”
1.5-2’
N
OK-Native
Works as a tall background or a screen, cut back in the spring before new growth starts.
Bouteloua curtipendula
pH:
SUM
pH:
N
OK-Native
An important component of the Great Plains shortgrass prairie.
Northern Sea Oats Chasmanthium latifolium
24”
36”
ALL
pH:
N
OK-Native
One of the more shade tolerant ornamental grasses, may self-seed.
Blue Fescue Festuca glauca
6-10”
6-10”
ALL
pH:
Juncus effusus
2’
1.5’
N
Not Native
2-3’
2-3’
ALL
pH:
N
OK-Native
Blue Oat Grass Helictotrichon sempervirens
24-36”
24-36”
ALL
pH:
N
Not Native
Best blue color in dry soils. Tolerates light shade but performs best in full sun.
ALL
pH:
N
Not Native
Not a true grass, this species requires little maintenance other than watering.
21 | Ornamental Grasses
Eragrostis elliottii
Excellent erosion control. Very fine-textured foliage and airy seed heads give this plant excellent movement from even light wind.
Good accent plant. May go dormant in hot summers.
Corkscrew Rush
Love Grass
Blue Lyme Grass Leymus arenarius
24”
36”
Spreading grass best used in containers or large masses.
SUM
pH:
N
Not Native
Maiden Grass Miscanthus sinensis
4’
3’
ALL
pH:
N
Not Native
Great as specimen or in groupings. Can spread quickly and become a nuisance if not maintained.
Switchgrass Panicum virgatum
3’
3’
SUM
pH:
Sorghastrum nutans
N
OK-Native
3’
3’
FALL
22 | Ornamental Grasses
18”
12”
ALL
pH:
N
Native
Little Bluestem Schizachyrium scoparium
2’
3’
ALL
pH:
N
OK-Native
Works well as a background plant or in mass planting.
pH:
N
OK-Native
Cut back in late winter or early spring. Many cultivars available.
Nassella tenuissima
Remove the top third of the plant in the spring. Will reseed each growing season and can spread vigorously if not maintained..
Useful as a screen, very vigorous plant. Many selections available.
Indiangrass
Mexican Feather Grass
Prairie Dropseed Sporobolus heterolepsis
24-48”
24-48”
ALL
pH:
N
OK-Native
Foliage maintains a golden-bronze color through winter. Flowers are noted for unique fragrance in late summer-fall.
Vines A
Crossvine Bignonia capreolata
50’
50’
climbing or trailing plant
SPR
pH:
N
OK-Native
Evergreen, blooms in spring, grows very quickly and may need to be pruned.
Carolina Jessamine Gelsemium sempervirens
20’
20’
SPR
pH:
Campsis radicans
35’
35’
SUM
pH:
N
OK-Native
Extremely vigorous, should be pruned frequently, can become weedy; attracts hummingbirds.
N
Native
Attracts butterflies. Early-blooming vine provides bright yellow flowers in early spring.
23 | Vines
Trumpet Vine
Trumpet Honeysuckle Lonicera sempervirens
10-20’
10-20’
SPR
pH:
N
OK-Native
Flowers are not fragrant. Tolerates some shade but blooms more prolifically in full sun.
Virginia Creeper Parthenocissus quinquefolia
30-50’
30-50’
FALL
pH:
N
OK-Native
Vigorous vine and easily grown. Red fall color and showy fruit.
Climbing Roses Rosa spp.
20’
20’
Needs good air circulation to prevent disease.
24 | Vines
SPR
Boston Ivy Parthenocissus tricuspidata
30-50’
30-50’
FALL
pH:
N
Not Native
Turns scarlet in the fall. Will clasp onto structures such as brick and concrete walls.
pH:
Native
N
American Wisteria Wisteria frutescens
15’
15’
SPR
pH:
N
OK-Native
The bean-like seed pods can be showy and very numerous.
Groundcover Low-growing,
Bugleweed Ajuga reptans
6-8”
6-12”
spreading plants
SPR
pH:
N
Not Native
Plants may be mowed after blooming in order to remove spent flower spikes and to tidy their appearance. Plants have blue flowers.
Creeping Juniper Juniperus horizontalis
8”
24”
Some cultivars will turn purple in the winter.
25 | Groundcover
ALL
pH:
Native
Winecup Callirhoe involucrata
6-12”
1-3’
SUM
pH:
N
OK-Native
Fits well into both formal garden areas as well as wild/naturalized areas. White flowering form available.
N
Monkey Grass Liriope spp.
6”
Varies
Mow in the early spring to remove old growth.
SUM
pH:
N
Not Native
Creeping Phlox Phlox stolonifera
6”
12”
SPR
pH:
L
Portulaca umbraticola
6”
9-12”
SUM
Portulaca grandiflora
6”
Native
Works well in rock gardens. White and pink flowering varieties also available.
Wingpod Purslane
Rose Moss
12”
SUM
pH:
N
Not Native
Not hardy but may self-seed the following year. Various colors available. Some varieties have flowers that remain open all day.
pH:
N
OK-Native
Sedum
FALL
Sedum spp.
4-6”
Varies
pH:
N
Native
This plant is attractive to bees, butterflies, and birds. Good selection for trailing container plant or hanging basket. Various colors available.
Approximately 400 species. Growing requirements differ between species in terms of cold hardiness and heat tolerance. Works for green roofs.
Creeping Thyme
Dwarf Periwinkle
Thymus serpyllum
1”
12”
ALL
pH:
Not Native
Very low growing, flowers in late spring and early summer. Aromatic foliage.
26 | Groundcover
N
Vinca minor
4-6”
12”
ALL
pH:
N
Not Native
Mowing the patch low after blooming every couple of years will help to keep it thick and weed resistant. Semi-evergreen foliage.
Shrubs
A woody plant smaller than a tree, with several main stems arising from the ground
Compact Coral Barberry
Berberis x stenophylla ‘Corallina compacta’
36”
48”
SUM
pH:
N
Not Native
American Beautyberry Callicarpa americana
4-6’
4-6’
Low-growing, compact plant. Good choice for a low hedge or used as an accent in larger planting beds.
Fruits provide fall to early winter beauty.
Blue Mist Spirea
Roughleaf Dogwood
Caryopteris x clandonensis
24”
36”
SUM
pH:
Not Native
Attracts bees and hummingbirds. True blue flowers all summer long.
27 | Shrubs
N
Cornus drummondii
5-18’
25’
WIN
pH:
L
OK-Native
SPR
pH:
L
OK-Native
This is a very adaptable plant and is found in nature in a variety of wet to dry situations, but best in wet soils
Red-twig Dogwood Cornus sericea
3-6’
3-6’
ALL
pH:
N
Cotoneaster dammeri
24”
48”
Cotinus coggygria
10’
Native
10’
SUM
pH:
N
Not Native
Tiny flowers in large fuzzy clusters give the plant a smoky appearance. Plants are available in various summer leaf colors.
Bright red stems in the winter are particularly showy.
Bearberry Cotoneaster
Smoke Tree
FALL
pH:
N
Rose of Sharon Hibiscus syriacus
12’
Not Native
Slow growing evergreen. Effective in rock gardens or as groundcover. Fall foliage has a purple tinge that is complimented by small red berries.
8’
SUM
pH:
N
Not Native
Works well as a border or screen, yearly pruning in early spring will improve flowering. Sterile selections are available to prevent re-seeding.
.
Deciduous Holly Ilex decidua
8’
6’
WIN
pH:
OK-Native
Red berries on female plants in late summer. Plants also available with orange or yellow fruits.
28 | Shrubs
L
Yaupon Holly Ilex vomitoria
Varies
Varies
WIN
pH:
L
OK-Native
Very durable and adaptable, needs to be pruned two or three times a year to maintain a neat appearance. Available in dwarf and weeping varieties.
Winter Jasmine Jasminum nudiflorum
6’
8’
WIN
pH:
N
Not Native
Juniper Juniperus chinensis
Varies
Varies
ALL
pH:
L
Not Native
Great covering for steep slopes, spilling over a wall or planted in groups. Starts blooming during cold weather before the new year.
Very hardy, many different cultivars available ranging in size, shape and color.
Japanese Kerria
Crapemyrtle
Kerria japonica
4’
5’
ALL
pH:
N
Not Native
Species blooms well and is more drought resistant in partial shade. Single flowered varieties also available.
Lagerstroemia indica
ALL
Varies
Not Native
Varies
pH:
N
Available in a wide range of heights and flower color, severe pruning can stimulate basal sprouting which may be a nuisance.
d
Nandina Nandina domestica
ALL
Varies
Not Native
Varies
pH:
N
Low maintenance shrub, prune once a year in the winter to keep it from looking leggy. Many different selections are commercially available.
29 | Shrubs
Ninebark Physocarpus opulifolius
6’
5’
SPR
pH:
N
OK-Native
Exfoliating bark provides some winter interest. Several cultivars have striking reddish, purple foliage.
Mugo Pine
WIN
Pinus mugo
3-20’
3-12’
pH:
N
Not Native
Fragrant Sumac Rhus aromatica
5’
4’
ALL
pH:
OK-Native
Slow growing. Can be yellowish-green in winter. Dwarf varieties available.
Males and females are separate plants, fruit is only produced if a male plant is available. Dwarf selections available.
Cutleaf Staghorn Sumac
Shrub Roses
Rhus typhina
10’
12’
FALL
pH:
N
OK-Native
Spreads by root suckers, creating a colony. Exceptional fall color.
Koreanspice Viburnum Viburnum carlesii
4-6’
4-6’
SPR
6’
6’
SUM
pH:
N
Native
Several varieties and cultivars available ranging in bloom color, size, and disease resistance. Very few thornless options are available.
pH:
N
Not Native
Slow-growing, symmetrically rounded shrub.Very fragrant flowers that give way to non-showy dark blue berries in late summer.
30 | Shrubs
Rosa spp.
L
Chaste Tree Vitex agnus-castus
10’
15’
SUM
pH:
N
Not Native
Flowers attract bees. Flowers appear on new growth. Can be pruned to the ground in early spring and maintained as a herbaceous perennial.
Trees A
Red Maple
FALL
Acer rubrum
60’
tall woody perennial plant, typically having a single main trunk
40’
pH:
L
OK-Native
Caddo Sugar Maple Acer saccharum ‘Caddo’
50-60’
20-35’
FALL
pH:
OK-Native
Its rapid growth and red fall color makes Red Maple a popular shade tree.
Very drought tolerant, sensitive to over watering. Attractive fall color.
Shantung Maple
Chittamwood
Acer truncatum
20’
25’
ALL
pH:
Not Native
Excellent small tree for urban areas. New leaves emerge in red and purple hues throughout the growing season.
31 | Trees
N
Bumelia lanuginosa
40-50’
L
SUM
25-35’
Young plants often require training to create a tree-like form.
pH:
Native
N
Sugarberry Celtis laevigata
50-70’
50-60’
ALL
pH:
N
OK-Native
Common Hackberry Celtis occidentalis
40-80’
40-50’
ALL
Can develop galls on leaves. Bark is very coarse in texture and resembles small warts or ridges of cork-like layers.
Oklahoma Redbud
Desert Willow
20-30’
25-35’
SPR
pH:
N
OK-Native
A cultivar of Oklahoma’s state tree. Best known for its pink to purple blooms that occur in early spring.
Arizona Cypress Cupressus arizonica
40’
30’
ALL
pH:
Native
Pyramidal in form resembling a Juniper. Foliage is bluish-gray. Works very well as a screen or windbreak. Attractive cones and showy bark.
32 | Trees
Chilopsis linearis
20-30’
15-25’
N
OK-Native
Small berries attract birds; bark is thin and easily damaged by mechanical impact.
Cercis canadensis var. texensis ‘Oklahoma’
pH:
SUM
pH:
N
OK-Native
Works well as a wide screen. Does not tolerate over watering.
N
Winterberry Euonymus Euonymus bungeanus
20-24’
15-18’
WIN
pH:
N
Not Native
Can be grown as a tree or shrub, depending on pruning. Good tolerance for urban conditions.
Green Ash Fraxinus pennsylvanica
60’
40’
FALL
pH:
H
OK-Native
Gleditsia triacanthos var inermis
30-50’
30-50’
SUM
pH:
N
OK-Native
Tolerant of small planting pits in concrete, making it a good choice for urban environments or as a street tree.
Golden-Rain Tree Koelreuteria paniculata
25-40’
25-40’
30-50’
30-50’
pH:
N
Not Native
ALL
pH:
Kentucky Coffee Tree Gymnocladus dioica
60-75’
40-50’
ALL
pH:
N
OK-Native
Grows slowly, female trees produce pods. Male (seedless) selections are commercially available.
N
Not Native
Produces small yellow flowers. Flowers give way to yellowish-brown seed pods that resemble small lanterns.
33 | Trees
ALL
Ginkgo biloba
Select male trees, female fruit may be messy. Rich yellow fall color.
Deep-green summer foliage turns yellow in fall.
Thornless Honeylocust
Ginkgo
Osage Orange Maclura pomifera
40-60’
40-60’
ALL
pH:
N
OK-Native
Produces large, grapefruit-sized fruit which can be a problem in residential areas, but there are male thornless, fruitless cultivars.
Crabapple
Malus ‘Prairiefire’
15-25’
20-25’
ALL
pH:
L
Not Native
Hundreds of cultivars available with various colored fruit and growth habits. Look for disease resistant cultivars.
Pinyon Pine Pinus edulis
20-30’
20-30’
ALL
pH:
Pinus echinata
N
OK-Native
50’
30’
ALL
L
OK-Native
This is the hardiest and most adaptable of the southern pines.
34 | Trees
pH:
Parrotia persica
20-40’
20-35’
ALL
pH:
N
Not Native
Yellow, red, or orange fall color. Exfoliating bark adds interesting color and texture. Partial shade may also be desirable.
Does not tolerate shade or overwatering. Tolerant of poor soil conditions. Seeds are as pine nuts and edible. Performs best in Western OK.
Shortleaf Pine
Persian Parrotia
Japanese Red Pine
ALL
20-30’
Not Native
Pinus densiflora
20-25’
pH:
L
Fairly open growth, often has a crooked trunk. Showy orange to red bark/ limbs.
Ponderosa Pine Pinus ponderosa
70-80’
70-80’
ALL
pH:
N
OK-Native
Very tall and broad, may not be suitable for residential areas
Loblolly Pine Pinus taeda
60-100
30-50’
ALL
pH:
N
Prunus mexicana
20’
15’
ALL
pH:
Quercus macrocarpa
H
OK-Native
60-80’
70-80’
ALL
pH:
35 | Trees
pH:
N
Not Native
Sawtooth Oak Quercus acutissima
35-45’
35-50’
FALL
pH:
L
Not Native
Foliage has a serrated edge, giving reason for its descriptive common name.
L
OK-Native
Very slow growing. Foliage remains on the tree late into the fall after leaves have turned. Has very attractive acorns almost 2” in diameter.
25-35’
FALL
Bright red, yellow or orange fall color. Female trees have red to blue berry-like fruits that appear in fall.
This plant attracts bees, butterflies, and birds and is drought-tolerant. White blooms and edible fruits make this a good addition in orchards.
Bur Oak
Pistacia chinensis
25-35’
Native
Excellent pine that tolerates Oklahoma’s adverse conditions, including poorly drained soils and drought.
Mexican Plum
Chinese Pistache
Chinkapin Oak Quercus muehlenbergii
40-60’
50-60’
SPR
pH:
L
OK-Native
Acorns very desirable to wildlife. Under utilized shade tree.
Shumard Oak Quercus shumardii
40-60’
40-60’
SUM
pH:
L
OK-Native
Western Soapberry Sapindus saponaria var. drummondii
40-50’
30-40’
SUM
pH:
OK-Native
Requires less maintenance than some other oak trees. More resistant to yellow foliage (chlorosis) than Pin Oak.
Has a yellow fruit that matures in mid-fall. Showy bark and yellow fall color.
Sassafras
Japanese Tree Lilac
Sassafras albidum
45’
30’
SUM
pH:
L
OK-Native
Syringa reticulata
15-25’
15-25’
If root suckers are not removed, tree will spread and look like a large shrub. Interesting leaf shapes and striking fall color. Best for Eastern OK.
Produces large white flowers, has showy bark.
Bald Cypress
Cedar Elm
Taxodium distichum
50-75’
50-75’
ALL
pH:
L
OK-Native
Not an evergreen, needles fall off in the fall. Grows very well in wet soils or near water. Dwarf selection available.
36 | Trees
Ulmus crassifolia
50-70’
30-40’
N
SUM
pH:
N
Not Native
SUM
pH:
N
OK-Native
Withstands heavy, poorly drained soils. Dark foliage and “winged” branches add to ornamental appeal.
Lacebark Elm Ulmus parvifolia
50-70’
50-60’
ALL
N
Not Native
Exfoliating bark is a noteworthy feature of this tree. Tree has small, refined leaves.
37 | Trees
pH:
Turfgrasses A
layer of matted earth formed by grass and plant roots
Buffalograss Bouteloua dactyloides
SUM
Mowing Height
OK-Native
3”
pH:
N
Common Bermudagrass Cynodon dactylon
SUM
Mowing Height 1-2”
Not Native
pH:
Warm-season grass, drought resistant. May be hard to establish in areas formerly bermudagrass. For recommended cultivars see CR-6609* (pg 39)
Warm-season grass, drought resistant, common cultivars- ‘Yukon’ and ‘Riviera’ For more information see HLA-6419**.
Hybrid Bermudagrass
Tall Fescue
Cynodon dactylon x C. transvaalensis
Mowing Height 1-2”
SUM
N
Not Native
Warm-season grass, drought resistant, cultivars- ‘Latitude 36’, ‘Northbridge’, and ‘Patriot’.For more information see HLA-6419**
38 | Turfgrasses
pH:
Festuca arundinacea
Mowing Height 3”
FALL
pH:
N
N
Not Native
Cool-season grass, best suited for shaded areas where bermudagrass or buffalograss won’t grow. For more information see HLA-6419**
Zoysiagrass Zoysia spp.
Mowing Height 1-2”
SUM
pH:
N
Not Native
Warm-season, similar maintenance to bermudagrass, but is slower growing and requires more water. For more information see HLA-6419**
*CR-6609. Current Report 6609, “2012 Commercial Sources of Buffalograss Seed, Sod and Plugs.” **HLA-6419. Horticulture and Landscape Architecture Fact Sheet 6419. “Establishing a Lawn in Oklahoma.” Available at OSUFacts.okstate.edu
39 | Turfgrasses
Index All
plants are listed under each category by their common name
Summer Snapdragon-
Annuals Asparagus Fern- Asparagus spp. Blue Daze- Evolvulus pilosus ‘Blue Daze’ Cockscomb- Celosia spp. Cosmos- Cosmos spp. Diamond Frost Euphorbia -Euphorbia graminea ‘Inneuphdia’ ®
Dusty Miller- Senecio cineraria Fan Flower- Scaevola aemula Firebush- Hamelia patens Globe Amaranth- Gomphrena globosa Helenium- Helenium amarum ‘Dakota Gold’ Indian Paintbrush- Castilleja indivisa Lantana- Lantana camara Marigold- Tagetes spp. Mexican Bush Sage- Salvia leucantha Mexican Sunflower- Tithonia rotundifolia Mexican Zinnia- Zinnia angustifolia Ornamental Peppers- Capsicum spp. Pentas- Pentas lanceolata Periwinkle- Catharanthus roseus Purple Heart- Tradescantia pallida ‘Purpurea’ Silver Falls Dichondra-
Dichondra argentea ‘Silver Falls’
Snow-on-the-Mountain- Euphorbia marginata Spider Flower- Cleome spp. Strawflower40 | Index
Helichrysum bracteatum
Sunflower-
Angelonia angustifolia
Helianthus annuus
4 6 5 5 6 8 8
Sweet Potato Vine-
6 6 6 5 7 8 8 8 9 4 7 5 9 5 6 5 7
Arkansas Bluestar-
Texas BluebonnetWax BegoniaYellow Bells-
Ipomoea batatas Lupinus texensis
Begonia spp.
Tecoma stans
4 7 7 7 4 8
Perennials American BellflowerArtemisia-
Amsonia hubrichtii
Artemisia spp.
Atlantic CamasAutumn Sage-
Camassia scilloides
Salvia greggii
Bird’s Foot Viola-
Viola pedata
Black-eyed SusanBlanket FlowerBluejacket-
Rudebeckia hirta
Gaillardia spp.
Blue False Indigo-
Baptisia australis
Tradescantia ohiensis
Blue Star KalimerisBundleflower-
Kalimeris incisa ‘Blue Star’
Desmanthus illinoensis
Butterfly Weed-
Asclepias tuberosa
Carolina LarkspurCatmint-
Campanulastrum americanum
Delphinium carolinianum ssp. virescens
Nepeta x fassenii
Christmas Fern
Polystichum acrostichoides
Compass PlantCoreopsis-
Silphium laciniatum
Coreopsis spp.
12 10 11 11 18 19 17 14 11 19 15 13 11 13 16 17 18 12
Daylily-
14 Verbena-on-a-Stick- Verbena bonariensis
Hemerocallis spp.
Dwarf Goldenrod-
Solidago sphacelata ‘Golden Fleece’
Eastern Red Columbine-
Aquilegia canadensis
Evening Primrose- Oenothera macrocarpa Foxglove BeardtongueGaura-
Penstemon digitalis
Gaura lindheimeri
Giant ConeflowerHairy Lipfern-
Rudbeckia maxima
Cheilanthes lanosa
Hardy Fall CyclamenHardy Plumago-
Cyclamen hederifolium
Ceratostigma plumbaginoides
Hardy Winter CyclamenHens and Chicks-
Sempervivum spp.
Hummingbird MintHyssopIris-
Cyclamen coum
Agastache rupestris
Agastache rupestris
Iris spp.
Japanese Painted FernLamb’s Ear-
Stachys byzantina
Lavender CottonLenten Rose-
Santolina chamaecyparissus
Helleborus orientalis
Mexican BeardtongueMexican HatMontbretiaMugwort-
Athyrium nipponicum
Penstemon mexicali
Ratibida columnifera
Crocosmia x curtonus ‘Lucifer’
Artemisia spp.
Myrtle Euphorbia-
Euphorbia myrsinites
Oxeye Sunflower- Heliopsis helianthoides Parry’s Agave-
Agave parryi
Prairie Blazing Star-
Liatris pycnostachya
Prickly Pear- Opuntia macrorhiza Purple Coneflower- Echinacea purpurea Red Hot Poker- Kniphofia triangularis Red Texas Star-
Ipomopsis rubra
Red Yucca-
Hesperaloe parviflora
Rosemary-
Rosmarinus officinalis
Russian Sage-
Perovskia atriplicifolia
Santolina Lemon Fizz- Santolina virens ‘Lemon Fizz’ Snow-in-Summer-
Cerastium tomentosum
Spotted Beebalm-
Monarda punctata
Stonecrop-
Hylotelephium spectabile
WormwoodVerbena41 | Index
Artemisia spp.
Verbena canadensis
18 Yarrow- Achillea spp. 11 16 16 14 17 12 13
Yucca-
12 13 18 10 10 15 11 19 18 14 16 17 12 11 13 14 10 15 16 13 15 15 14 17 17 18 12 16 15 11 19
Blue Oat Grass-
19 10 19
Yucca filamentosa
Ornamental Grasses Big Bluestem-
Andropogon geradii
Blue Fescue-
Festuca glauca
Blue Grama-
Bouteloua gracilis
Blue Lyme Grass-
Helictotrichon sempervirens
Corkscrew RushIndiangrass-
Leymus arenarius
Juncus effusus
Sorgastrum nutans
Little BluestemLove Grass-
Schizachyrium scoparium
Eragrostis elliottii
Maiden Grass-
Miscanthus sinensis
Mexican Feather GrassNorthern Sea OatsPrairie Dropseed-
Switchgrass-
Chasmanthium latifolium
Sporobolus heterolepsis
Purple Three AwnSideoats Grama-
Nassella tenuissima
Aristida purpurea
Bouteloua curtipendula
Panicum virgatum
20 21 20 21 21 21 22 22 21 22 22 21 22 20 20 22
Vines American WisteriaBoston Ivy-
Wisteria frutescens
Parthenocissus tricuspidata
Carolina JessamineClimbing RosesCrossvine-
Gelsemium sempervirens
Rosa spp.
Bignonia capreolata
Trumpet HoneysuckleTrumpet Vine-
Lonicera sempervirens
Campsis radicans
Virginia Creeper-
Parthenocissus quinquefolia
24 24 23 24 23 23 23 24
Ground Cover Bugleweed-
Ajuga reptans
Creeping JuniperCreeping Phlox-
Juniperus horizontalis
Phlox stolonifera
Creeping Thyme-
Thymus serpyllum
Dwarf Periwinkle-
Vinca minor
Lilyturf-
Liriope spp.
Monkey Grass-
Liriope spp.
25 25 26 26 26 25 25
Rose MossSedum-
Portulaca grandiflora
Sedum spp.
Winecup-
Callirhoe involucrata
Wingpod Purslane-
Portulaca umbraticola
26 Crabapple- Malus ‘Prairefire’ 26 Desert Willow- Chilopsis linearis
34 32
25 Ginkgo- Ginkgo biloba 26 Golden-Rain Tree- Koelreuteria paniculata
33
Green Ash-
Shrubs American Beautyberry-
Callicarpa americana
Bearberry CotoneasterBlue Mist SpireaChaste Tree-
Cotoneaster dammeri
Caryopteris x clandonensis
Vitex agnus-castus
Compact Coral Barberry-Berberis x stenophylla ‘Corallina Compacta’ Crapemyrtle-
Lagerstroemia indica
Cutleaf Staghorn Sumac-
Rhus typhina
Deciduous Holly-
Ilex decidua
Fragrant Sumac-
Rhus aromatica
Koreanspice ViburnumJapanese KerriaJuniper-
Viburnum carlesii
Kerria japonica
Juniperus spp.
Mugo PineNandinaNinebark-
Pinus mugo
Nandina domestica Physocarpus opulifolius
Red-twig DogwoodRose of Sharon-
Cornus sericea
Hibiscus syracus
Roughleaf DogwoodShrub RosesSmoke Tree-
Cornus drummodii
Rosa spp.
Cotinus coggygria
Winter JasmineYaupon Holly-
Jasminum nudiflorum
Ilex vomitoria
Trees Arizona CypressBald CypressBur Oak-
Cupressus arizonica
Taxodium distichum
Quercus macrocarpa
Caddo Sugar MapleCedar Elm-
Ulmus crassifolia
Chinese PistacheChinkapin OakChittamwood-
Pistacia chinensis
Quercus muehlenburgii
Bumelia lanuginosa
Common Hackberry42 | Index
Acer saccharum Caddo
Celtis occidentalis
Fraxinus pennsylvanica
Japanese Red Pine- Pinus densiflora 27 Japanese Tree Lilac- Syringa reticulata 28 Kentucky Coffee Tree- Gymnocladus dioica 27 Lacebark Elm- Ulmus parvifolia 30 27 29 30 28 30 30 29 29 30 29 29 28 28 27 30 28 29
Loblolly Pine-
Pinus Taeda
Mexican Plum-
Prunus mexicana
Oklahoma RedbudOsage Orange-
Maclura pomifera
Persian ParrotiaPinyon Pine-
Sassafras-
Parrotia persica
Pinus edulis
Ponderosa PineRed Maple-
Cercis canadensis var texensis ‘Oklahoma’
Pinus ponderosa
Acer rubrum
Sassafras albidum
Sawtooth Oak-
Quercus acutissima
Shantung Maple-
Acer truncatum
Shortleaf Pine-
Pinus echinata
Shumard Oak-
Quercus shumardii
Sugarberry-
Celtis laevigata
Thornless Honeylocust-
Gleditsia triacanthos var inermis
Western Soapberry- Sapindus saponaria var. drummondii Winterberry Euonymus-
Euonymus bungeanus
33 33 34 36 33 37 35 35 32 33 34 34 34 31 36 35 31 34 36 32 33 36 32
Turf
28 Buffalograss-
Bouteloua dactyloides
Common Bermuda-
Cynodon dactylon
32 Hybrid Bermuda- Cynodon dactylon x C. transvaalensis 36 Tall Fescue- Festuca erundinacea 35 Zoysiagrass- Zoysia spp. 31 36 35 35 31 32
38 38 38 38 39
Plan It! Design
your own landscape
Create your design plan using the graph paper below. To begin planning, conduct a site evaluation and draw an aerial of your property. Include features of the site such as fences, trees, structures or walkways. Appropriately place plant symbols according to sun and water requirements. Plan to use mulch to help retain soil moisture, prevent erosion, and control weed growth. Examples can be found using Oklahoma Cooperative Extension Service leaflet L-437.
43 | Plan It!
The City of
OKLAHOMA CITY UTILITIES DEPARTMENT
Oklahoma State University
Oklahoma Cooperative Extension Service
Oklahoma State University, in compliance with Title VI and VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Executive Order 11246 as amended, Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, and other federal laws and regulations, does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, gender, age, religion, disability, or status as a veteran in any of its policies, practices or procedures. This includes but is not limited to admissions, employment, financial aid, and educational services. Issued in furtherance of Cooperative Extension work, acts of May 8 and June 30, 1914, in cooperation with the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the Director of Oklahoma Cooperative Extension Service, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, Oklahoma. This publication is printed and issued by Oklahoma State University as authorized by the Vice President, Dean, and Director of the Division of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources and has been prepared and distributed at a cost of $1.75 per copy. 0214 JS