According to the Texas Trees Foundation, there are over 700 species of trees found in the Lone Star State. Most of these Texas trees don’t stand a chance of growing in light of the state’s regulations against watering or irrigation. That’s why planting a tree that’s more tolerant to Texas’ drought conditions is your best solution to a healthier landscape.

You can read more here on how on this homeowner’s guide to choosing drought tolerant trees in Texas. Choose wisely today so that you’ll secure some low maintenance Texas landscaping for the future.

Choosing Drought Tolerant Trees in Texas

A tree is sensitive to a lack of moisture in the air and soil. That’s why choosing a tree that won’t need frequent watering is the best way to be sure your landscape is resistant to drought conditions.

Consider using a native tree that’s adapted to local soil and moisture than a nonnative tree. A tree that has smaller leaves has a better water-use efficiency than those species with a larger leaf.

Trees that have a multilayered crown with multiple leaf layers and branches are also more water-efficient than trees with leaf canopies that have leaves in a single layer around the crown’s outer edge.

Texas Drought Resistant Trees

Here are some types of Texas trees that will thrive in a drought tolerant environment that you can start today.

Arizona Cypress

When you buy an Arizona Cypress, you receive a specimen that is between six inches and one foot tall. Then you can transplant it in your landscape outdoors.

These trees thrive in well-drained soil and full sun. The Arizona Cypress is effective for erosion control and wind resistance. This species sometimes attracts bagworms and cypress bark beetles. These pests create damage by boring holes into the tree’s trunk and chewing through leaves.

Prairie Flameleaf Sumac

This species is a small deciduous tree. They will grow in clusters because it’s stems spread horizontally. The Sumac sends out both shoots and roots.

The Sumac leaves are narrow and turn red during the fall. During the summer, the Sumac has white flowers on its branches that turn into red fruits.

Texas Ash

The Texas Ash is a drought-tolerant species with dark-green leaves. In the fall it has yellow shades on the inside and red on the outside.

This species thrives in north central Texas as well as in southern Oklahoma. This tree can adapt to well-drained limestone soil. It’s hardy and resistant to disease and pests.

Southern Red Oak

The southern red oak is also called a Spanish oak. This name derives from the species present during the early Spanish colonies.

The Southern red oak thrives best in dry, upland sandhills. You’ll find it growing with pines or hardwood strands. This species is popular with many wildlife including deer and squirrels.

The acorns from the tree are popular with local songbirds. The wood is used for flooring, furniture and other construction materials.

What Are Your Next Steps?

Are you ready to find the most drought tolerant trees in Texas? If so, check out our website for more helpful advice on healthy tree tips. Let us surpass your expectations and help you beautify your home.