Best Native Plants for Austin, Texas Landscaping (And Why They Work So Well)
Landscaping in Austin, Texas comes with unique challenges: intense sun, periods of drought, and rocky soil. The good news? There are many native Texas plants that not only survive — but thrive — in these conditions.
If you're planning a low-maintenance, eco-friendly, and beautiful landscape, choosing native plants is the way to go. Here's why:
They require less water
They attract local pollinators like bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds
They're more resistant to local pests and diseases
They help maintain a healthy local ecosystem
Below are some of the best native plants for Austin-area landscaping, including why they're ideal for Central Texas yards:
1. Texas Sage (Leucophyllum frutescens)
Why it works: Extremely drought-tolerant and thrives in full sun.
Perks: Silver foliage and beautiful purple blooms after rain.
Great for: Hedges, privacy screens, or ornamental accents.
2. Blackfoot Daisy (Melampodium leucanthum)
Why it works: Low-growing and heat-loving.
Perks: White daisy-like flowers bloom for most of the year.
Great for: Borders, rock gardens, or ground cover.
3. Turk's Cap (Malvaviscus arboreus var. drummondii)
Why it works: Shade-tolerant and attracts hummingbirds.
Perks: Bright red blooms and lush, bushy growth.
Great for: Shady areas, under trees, or naturalized gardens.
4. Cenizo (Texas Barometer Bush)
Why it works: Reflects heat and blooms with humidity.
Perks: Silver-gray leaves with lavender flowers.
Great for: Xeriscapes, informal hedges.
5. Gregg's Mistflower (Conoclinium greggii)
Why it works: Thrives in both sun and part-shade.
Perks: A pollinator magnet, especially for monarch butterflies.
Great for: Pollinator gardens and borders.
6. Red Yucca (Hesperaloe parviflora)
Why it works: Handles poor soil, drought, and extreme heat.
Perks: Long-lasting red flower stalks and architectural look.
Great for: Modern landscapes, xeriscaping, or focal points.
7. Big Muhly (Lindheimer's Muhly)
Why it works: Drought-hardy ornamental grass with great movement.
Perks: Adds texture and softness to hardscapes.
Great for: Edging, mass plantings, or erosion control.
Why Native Plants Matter in Austin Landscaping
Using native plants isn’t just practical — it’s sustainable. Austin’s climate can be unpredictable, and native species are naturally adapted to its rhythms. They require less maintenance, reduce water use, and contribute to biodiversity.
Whether you’re designing a pollinator garden, a drought-tolerant yard, or a modern minimalist landscape, these plants provide structure, color, and life.
Need help designing a native landscape in Central Texas? At Hill Country Build, we specialize in Austin landscaping with a focus on native plants, sustainable design, and long-lasting beauty.