Beyoncé, Willie Nelson… Plumbago?

Texas Superstars

When I first heard the expression Texas superstars, I assumed I’d hear about Matthew McConaughey or one of the many famous actors, actresses, or musicians from the state. But in gardening, Texas Superstars are actually the plants you need to know. 

Texas Superstar plants are specially recognized by a top group of horticultural professionals and landscape designers for superior performance in tough growing conditions across Texas.  These experts determine which plants meet the criteria, as each plant must perform well in a variety of landscapes and be producible in sufficient numbers to meet consumer demand. 

In layman’s terms, these are the plants that will look amazing in your yard and thrive in Texas weather and soil. 

For a full list of Texas Superstars and information on where to find them, visit the Texas Superstars website. 

Fun facts about a few of my favorites:

Texas bluebonnets can improve soil naturally

Texas bluebonnets are nitrogen fixers, which means they partner with soil bacteria to pull nitrogen out of the air and store it in the ground—essentially fertilizing future plants for free. Farmers once encouraged bluebonnets as a soil-restoring cover crop. 

Mexican mint marigold replaces tarragon—especially in heat 

Sometimes it’s even called “Texas tarragon” because it can replace French tarragon. It was also used medicinally by Native American tribes for digestion and colds. 

Lantana can send "mixed" signals

Lantana camara are showy, root-hardy plants that die to the ground in the winter but emerge from the crown the following spring. It is one of the best butterfly attractors in Texas, but it is toxic to livestock if eaten. 

The Lantana flower changes color after pollination to signal that the nectar is gone—essentially nature’s version of a flashing “VACANCY / NO VACANCY” sign. 

HCPL's Green Thumb Gardening Series

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