Perennials are long-lasting plants that return year after year, making them a reliable and cost-effective choice for West Texas landscapes. In a region known for intense heat, low rainfall, alkaline soils, and wind, selecting well-adapted perennials is essential for success.
Texas A&M AgriLife Extension emphasizes the use of drought-tolerant and regionally adapted perennials to reduce water use and maintenance while improving plant performance.
What Are Perennials?
Perennials are plants that live for more than two years. While the top growth of some perennials may die back during winter or extreme conditions, the root system survives and produces new growth in the following season.
Why Use Perennials in West Texas
- Provide long-term structure and reliability
- Require less replanting compared to annuals
- Many are drought-tolerant once established
- Support pollinators and wildlife
- Adapt well to local soils and climate
Recommended Perennials for West Texas
Heat and Drought-Tolerant Perennials
Blackfoot Daisy (Melampodium leucanthum)
Reliable native perennial for hot, dry areas.
Autumn Sage (Salvia greggii)
Common varieties include:
- ‘Furman’s Red’
- ‘Lipstick’
- ‘Cherry Queen’
- ‘Navajo Purple’
Russian Sage (Perovskia atriplicifolia)
Common varieties include:
- ‘Blue Steel’
- ‘Little Spire’
- ‘Denim ‘n Lace’
Lantana (Lantana urticoides and hybrids)
Common varieties include:
- ‘New Gold’
- ‘Dallas Red’
- ‘Miss Huff’
- ‘Confetti’
Gaura (Oenothera lindheimeri)
Common varieties include:
- ‘Whirling Butterflies’
- ‘Siskiyou Pink’
- ‘Belleza Dark Pink’
Native and Highly Adapted Perennials
Gregg’s Mistflower (Conoclinium greggii)
Spreads easily and attracts butterflies.
Mealy Blue Sage (Salvia farinacea)
Common varieties include:
- ‘Henry Duelberg’
- ‘Victoria Blue’
- ‘Augusta Duelberg’
Winecup (Callirhoe involucrata)
A trailing native perennial ideal for dry areas.
Mexican Feathergrass (Nassella tenuissima)
Fine-textured ornamental grass with movement.
Engelmann Daisy (Engelmannia peristenia)
Hardy native with long bloom period.
Flowering and Ornamental Perennials
Daylily (Hemerocallis spp.)
Common varieties include:
- ‘Stella de Oro’
- ‘Happy Returns’
- ‘Pardon Me’
Coreopsis (Coreopsis spp.)
Common varieties include:
- ‘Early Sunrise’
- ‘Moonbeam’
- ‘Zagreb’
Shasta Daisy (Leucanthemum × superbum)
Common varieties include:
- ‘Becky’
- ‘Snowcap’
Yarrow (Achillea millefolium)
Common varieties include:
- ‘Moonshine’
- ‘Paprika’
- ‘Coronation Gold’
Perennial Verbena (Verbena spp.)
Common varieties include:
- ‘Homestead Purple’
- ‘Texas Lavender’
Planting Tips for Success
- Most perennials require full sun (6–8 hours daily)
- Ensure well-drained soil; avoid poorly drained areas
- Water regularly during establishment, then reduce frequency
- Apply mulch to conserve moisture and regulate soil temperature
- Cut back plants as needed to encourage new growth
- Avoid overwatering, especially for drought-adapted species
Texas A&M AgriLife Extension notes that overwatering is a common cause of decline in drought-tolerant plants.
Seasonal Considerations
- Plant in spring or fall for best establishment
- Expect some dieback in winter for herbaceous perennials
- Choose heat-adapted varieties for summer performance
- Combine with annuals for extended seasonal color
Final Thoughts
Perennials are a key component of successful West Texas landscapes. By selecting native and well-adapted plants, gardeners can create landscapes that are both attractive and sustainable, even under challenging environmental conditions.