One of our favorite Gardening experts, Randy Lemmon, who hosted GardenLine radio show for 27 years until his death January 4. 2023, suggested several flowering trees for our Houston Gulf Coast weather. These are some of our favorite trees at Texwood too.
Crape Myrtle– many shades of red, pink, and purple that mature 10-15 feet tall.
Red Bud– small flowering plant budding in a bright pink shade, purple, or burgundy shades often nicknamed Judas Tree. This tree is suitable for small spaces with relatively low maintenance.
Flowering Plum– beautiful pink and white flowers that turn into deep purple leaves the rest of the year until the freeze of winter releases all the leaves.
Chinese Fringe– a small tree forming into a dome shape bloom with white fragrant flowers in May through June that turn to green leaves the remainder of the year. One of the most resilient small trees to weather.
Flowering Crabapple– a large white canopy of blooms in March and April. There are other varieties in pink and reddish shades, but they do not do fare well in our climate.
Saucer Magnolia-a compact and ornamental tree that does not get bigger than 15 feet with large “tulip” shaped flowers in bright pink to purple.
Vitex– a tree with lavender flowers, often nicknamed the “Texas Lilac Trees” it is slow to bloom until the summer, but insects stay away and there is no mess when the lilacs fall after the first freeze.
Flowering plants that can withstand the heat and the freeze of our changing climates are also top on our list for Spring planting.
Lantana- Heat- Loving perennial that thrives in the sun. It withstands the freeze and will come back stronger each year.
Petunias– are a vibrant flower used for borders and hanging baskets.
Zinnias– colorful and loves the heat. Also good in hanging baskets as they come in over 13 bright varieties. May grow 4-5 feet tall.
Marigolds– easy to grow in yellow or orange deter pests and other insects and must be planted in the direct sun. May used for would healing qualities.
Bougainvillea– a colorful prickly vine that can grow in trestles after the last freeze.
This list is non-exhaustive, and other trees and plants may be added to the list. Let us know what your favorites are for your home!
