Appendix 3
City of Flagstaff Landscape Plant List

Sections:

3.010    Purpose

3.020    Organization of the Landscape Plant List

3.030    Landscape Plant List

3.010 Purpose

The City of Flagstaff Landscape Plant List is a compilation of recommended landscape plant types that are well-suited for survival and sustainable application in Flagstaff’s unique climate and soil conditions. Plant types were selected based upon the research and recommendations of local landscape architects, landscape professionals and concerned citizens. This list is intended as a guide for the landscape requirements of Division 10-50.60, Landscaping Standards, of the Zoning Code, and is not intended to be an all-inclusive list of acceptable landscape plants.

3.020 Organization of the Landscape Plant List

A.    The plants contained in this appendix are divided into eight separate categories, as follows, and are intended to meet a variety of landscaping needs and circumstances.

1.    Trees (Deciduous);

2.    Trees (Evergreen);

3.    Shrubs (Deciduous);

4.    Shrubs (Evergreen);

5.    Groundcovers;

6.    Vines;

7.    Grasses; and

8.    Perennials.

B.    Within each category, the plants are arranged alphabetically by botanical name, with the common name listed in the adjacent right column.

C.    The following supplemental information is also provided in the table for each plant type:

1.    Native or Naturalized. This indicates whether the plant is native to the Flagstaff region, or if it has been naturalized to the local environment.

2.    Overstory or Understory (Trees Only).

a.    Overstory trees are deciduous or evergreen trees that are generally in excess of 12 feet in height, under which other understory trees and shrubs may be planted.

b.    Understory trees may be either deciduous or evergreen, and grow under taller, overstory trees. These trees are usually no more than 10 to 12 feet in height, and therefore may be appropriate for planting under overhead power lines. Understory trees add structure, texture, color and multi-season interest to a landscape design.

3.    Sun Requirements. The sun requirements of each plant are indicated as follows, and are intended to assist in the proper placement of plant types in relation to the sun.

a.    S = Full sun;

b.    PS = Partial shade; and

c.    SH = Full shade.

4.    Water Needs. The water needs of each plant are indicated as follows, and are intended to assist in the proper placement of plant types according to water consumption and therefore their placement in different landscape zones.

a.    L = Low;

b.    M = Medium; and

c.    H = High.

5.    Spacing. Spacing information is provided for those plants which require a minimum separation in order to achieve greatest success.

6.    Special Characteristics. Special characteristics include supplemental information specific to each plant type, such as growth rate, leaf color, shape, and ideal environment for planting.

7.    Notes/Comments. Notes and comments provide additional plant information, such as root characteristics, preferred soil types and maintenance needs.

8.    Parkways and Medians. These columns identify those plants that have been pre-approved by the City Parks Division for placement in parkways and medians based on their size at maturity and maintenance requirements.

9.    Approved for ROW. This column identifies those plants that have been pre-approved by the City Parks Division for placement in City rights-of-way based on their size at maturity and maintenance requirements.

3.030 City of Flagstaff Landscape Plant List

Botanical Name

Common Name

Native?
(Y/Nat.)

Over-story Tree

Under-story Tree

Sun Req.

Water
Needs

Spacing

Special Characteristics

Notes/Comments

Parkways & Medians

Approved for
ROW

Urban

5-8' Wide

8-10' Wide

10' Wide

Trees (Deciduous)

Acer ginnala

Amur Maple

Nat.

 

X

S/PS

M

20 – 25'

Multi-trunked, shrubby, red fall color. Attractive cluster of small yellow fragrant flowers in spring.

Good substitute for oak. Slow growing, prune when young to ensure single trunk. Best in cool partially shaded area.

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Acer glabrum

Rocky Mountain Maple

Y

X

 

S/PS

M

 

Native riparian, slow growing. Good fall color. Grows well in canyons and washes.

Requires well-drained soil.

N

N

N

N

N

Acer grandidentatum

Bigtooth Maple

Y

X

 

S

M

 

Native riparian, slow growing. Yellow, orange and red fall color.

Requires well-drained deep soil.

N

N

N

N

N

Acer x freemanii

Freeman Maple

Nat.

X

 

S

M

20 – 25'

A fast growing maple known for its attractive brilliant red fall color.

Naturally occurring hybrid between Silver Maple (A. Saccharinum) and Red Maple (A. Rubrum).

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Betula occidentalis

River Birch

Nat.

 

X

PS

H

 

Grows well along streams. Has rich auburn bark.

Turns yellow in fall. Good for stream restoration.

N

N

N

N

N

Celtis occidentalis

Common Hackberry

Nat.

X

 

PS

L

 

Bright green leaves, rounded crown, spreading roots.

Deep roots, good tree near sidewalk. No heaving. Very adaptable.

N

N

N

N

N

Celtis reticulata

Western Hackberry, Netleaf Hackberry

Y

X

 

PS

L

 

Pendulous branches. Ornamental tree.

Deep roots, good tree near sidewalk. No heaving. Very adaptable.

N

N

N

N

N

Cercis candensis

American Redbud

 

X

 

S

M

 

Leaves rich green color, rosy pink blossoms.

Will take tree form. Needs protection from wind. High risk for health survival.

N

N

N

N

N

Cercis occidentalis

Western Redbud

 

 

X

PS

M

20 – 25'

Beautiful, delicate magenta flowers. Fruit is edible, attractive to wildlife.

Very drought tolerant. Some summer water for faster growth.

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Crataegus species

Hawthorn

Nat.

 

X

S

M

 

Flowering and fruit. Some have thorny branches.

Winter hardy.

N

N

N

N

N

Crataegus oxyacantha Var. Momogyna

English Hawthorn

Nat.

 

X

S

M

20 – 25'

Great wildlife tree with beautiful spring and fall colors in some cultivars.

Pruning required to thin out excess twig growth. Most cultivators have thorns.

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Fraxinus americana

Autumn Purple/White Ash

Nat.

X

 

S

M

 

Native to eastern U.S., very hardy. Not for windy areas.

Turns purple in fall. Good shade tree.

N

N

N

N

N

Fraxinus pennsylvanica

Marshall Ash, Green Ash, Patmore Ash

Nat.

X

 

S/PS/SH

M

20 – 25'

Bright green leaves, attractive shape, fast growing.

Will tolerate extreme hot/cold. Good street trees because of form. High risk. Seedless varieties.

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Fraxinus velutina

Arizona Ash

Y

X

 

PS

H

 

Grows well along streams. Restorative Riprarian shade tree.

Yellow leaves in fall.

N

N

N

N

N

Gleditsia triacanthos inermis

Thornless Honeylocust

Nat.

X

 

S

L

20 – 25'

Very hardy plant. Spreading, arching branches. Leafs out late and goes dormant early.

Roots on old plants will heave paving. Not good around sidewalks. Requires deep watering.

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Juglans major

Arizona Walnut

Y

X

 

S

M

 

Slow growing tree that typically has a split trunk. Produces nuts that mature in fall.

Toxic to nearby plants.

N

N

N

N

N

Malus species

Flowering Crabapple

Nat.

 

X

S/PS/SH

M

25 – 30'

Very hardy plant. Tolerant of many soil conditions. Blossom pink and red. Several varieties available.

Planted near fences they will heighten screening effect. Good espaliers.

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Plantanus wightii

Arizona Sycamore

Y

X

 

S

H

 

Native plant. Yellow color leaves in fall.

 

N

N

N

N

N

Platanus x acerifolia

London Planetree

Nat.

X

 

S

M

25 – 30'

A good street tree which refoliates after a late frost.

Fast growing but prefers rich moist soils.

N

N

N

Y

Y

Populus acuminata

Lanceleaf Cottonwood

Nat.

X

 

S

H

 

Grows well along streams.

Leaves turn yellow in fall.

N

N

N

N

N

Populus alba

White Poplar

Nat.

X

 

S

M

 

Fast growing, narrow, columnar form. Leaves green on top, silvery below.

Invasive roots, short lived, can sucker.

N

N

N

N

N

Populus augistifolia

Narrowleaf Cottonwood

Nat.

X

 

S

M

 

Native fast growing, drought tolerant. Once established, low maintenance.

Roots are invasive. Not for use near water sewer lines, septic tanks or streets. Use inter-mountain growth varieties.

N

N

N

N

N

Populus deltoides

Eastern Cottonwood

Nat.

X

 

S

M

 

Fast growing. Grows best in sands or silts.

Requires moist, well drained soils.

N

N

N

N

N

Populus fremontii

Fremont Cottonwood

Nat.

X

 

S

M

 

Native oval leaves. Golden fall color.

Invasive roots. Use inter-mountain growth varieties.

N

N

N

N

N

Populus nigra “italica”

Lombardy Poplar

Nat.

X

 

S

M

 

Columnar tree. Bright green leaves. Good fall color. Fast growing.

Invasive roots. Good wind break. Short lived. Can sucker.

N

N

N

N

N

Populus tremuloides

Quaking Aspen

Y

X

 

S/PS

H

30 – 35'

Native. Bright green leaves. White bark, fast growing. Yellow color in fall.

Invasive roots.

N

N

N

Y

Y

Prunus americana

American Plum

Nat.

 

X

S/PS

M

 

Thicket forming shrub or small tree.

Eastern native with white flowers in spring.

N

N

N

N

N

Prunus cerasifera “krauter”

Purpleleaf Plum

Nat.

 

X

S

H

 

Fruitless and not for windy locations.

Flowers are white in spring and has purple foliage.

N

N

N

N

N

Prunus cerasitera

Flowering Pear

Nat.

 

X

S

M

25 – 30'

Adaptive. Attractive form, spring time flower display.

Medium sized. Sporadic flowering tree. Several adaptable varieties.

N

N

N

Y

Y

Prunus padus

Bird Cherry, Mayday Tree

Nat.

 

X

S

M

25 – 30'

Small star-shaped fragrant white flowers in slender, drooping, 3-6' clusters.

Fast growing. Susceptible to tent caterpillar. Fruit loved by birds.

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Prunus sargentii

Flowering Cherry

Nat.

 

X

S

M

25 – 30'

Pink or white spring flowers. Upright, spreading branches form rounded crown.

Little or no pruning. Sporadic flowering.

N

N

N

Y

Y

Prunus virginiana

Chokecherry

Y

 

X

PS

M

20 – 25'

Red bark, white flowers. Good fall colors.

Medium sized, sporadic flowering tree.

N

N

N

Y

Y

Pryus calleryana varieties

Flowering Pear, varieties Bradford, Chanticlear

Nat.

 

X

S

M

20 – 25'

Need maintenance. Upsweeping branches, flowering clusters.

Shade tree. Street tree.

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Quercus macrorcarpa

Bur Oak

Nat.

X

 

S/PS

M

 

Fast growing, glossy green, white leaves.

Rugged looking, adaptable.

N

N

N

N

N

Quercus gambelii

Gambel Oak

Y

 

X

S/PS

L

25 – 30'

Slow growing, dark green leaves. Not suitable as a street tree.

Under ground creeping root system. Irregular form. Not available commercially in larger size or quantity.

N

N

N

Y

Y

Quercus borealis

Red Oak

Nat.

X

 

S/PS

M

25 – 30'

Fast growing, large open- growing branches. Good fall color.

Adaptable to sunny slope areas. Deep roots.

N

N

N

Y

Y

Robinia ambigua “purple robe”

Purple Robe Locust

Nat.

X

 

S/PS

L

 

Large shade tree for dry windy locations. Prone to scale and borers.

Fast growing with purple flowers that turn yellow in the fall.

N

N

N

Y

Y

Robinia neomexicana

New Mexican Locust

Y

 

X

S

M

 

A rapid growing tree that is very reminiscent of a large bush.

Has pink clustering flowers. Very attractive in bloom. Heavily thorned; not good in narrow areas.

N

N

N

N

Y

Robinia pseudoacacia

Black Locust

Nat.

X

 

S/PS

L

20 – 25'

Very hardy tree. Showy, fragrant spring flowers. Good shade tree. Fast growing. Mossy seed pods. Prone to scale and borers.

Thorny weak branches. Difficult to prune. Suckers freely. Not good in narrow areas.

N

N

N

Y

Y

Sorbus aucuparia

European Mountain Ash

Nat.

X

 

PS

M

25 – 30'

Mountain Ash provide habitat and forage for wildlife. Foliage turns red, orange, or yellow in fall.

Berries can be messy and are poisonous if consumed raw before the first hard frost.

N

N

N

Y

Y

Tilia

Linden

Nat.

X

 

S/PS

M

20 – 30'

Straight trunk. Dense, compact crown. Fragrant yellow flowers. Slow growing.

Young trees require staking and shaking. Pretty shape. Prefers rich, moist soils.

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Trees (Evergreen)

Ables concolor

White Fir

Y

X

 

S

M

30 – 35'

Slow growing. Blue green needles, conical shape.

Needs well drained soil. Not salt tolerant.

N

N

N

N

N

Cedrus atlantica

Atlas Cedar

Nat.

X

 

S/PS

L

 

Slow growing. Blue-green needles, open, graceful growth. Pyramidal shape.

Plant in protected area. Spreading. Needs 30' circle. Low survival rate in unprotected areas.

N

N

N

N

N

Juniperus deppeana

Alligator Juniper

Y

X

 

S

L

25 – 30'

Striking checked pattern bark resembling alligator hide. Hard to find commercially.

Slow growing evergreen, very tolerant of drought. Male flowers produce large amounts of pollen that may affect those with allergies or asthma.

N

N

N

Y

Y

Juniperus monosperma

One-Seed Juniper

Y

X

 

S

M

25 – 30'

Shrubby form with grey, fibrous and shredding bark. Great for dry windy sites. Hard to find commercially.

Slow growing evergreen, very tolerant of drought. Male flowers produce large amounts of pollen that may affect those with allergies or asthma.

N

N

N

Y

Y

Juniperus osteosperma

Utah Juniper

Y

 

X

S

L

25 – 30'

Shrubby form with grey, fibrous and shredding bark. Great for dry windy sites.

Slow growing evergreen, very tolerant of drought. Male flowers produce large amounts of pollen that may affect those with allergies or asthma.

N

N

N

Y

Y

Juniperus scopulorum

Rocky Mountain Juniper

Y

 

X

PS

L

25 – 30'

Pyramidal to oval crown, thin shedding bark, great for dry windy sties.

Slow growing evergreen, very tolerant of drought. Male flowers produce large amounts of pollen that may affect those with allergies or asthma.

N

N

N

Y

Y

Picea ables

Norway Spruce

Nat.

X

 

S/PS

M

 

Fast growing (for a spruce) extremely hardy and wind resistant. Stiff, deep green, pyramid shape

Good tree for windbreaks and screening.

N

N

N

N

N

Picea pungens

Colorado Spruce, Blue Spruce

Nat.

X

 

S/PS

M

30 – 35'

Slow growing, Conical shape. Native.

Blue or green needle varieties.

N

N

N

Y

Y

Pinus aristata

Bristlecone Pine

Y

 

X

S/PS

L

 

Slow growing, attractive short, blue-green needles. Native.

May prefer northern exposure.

N

N

N

N

N

Pinus edulis

Pinyon Pine

Y

 

X

S

L

 

Slow growing, bushy form, edible nuts. Hardy tree.

Transplants easiest as young plants. Susceptible to insects when stressed. Hard to find nursery grown.

N

N

N

N

N

Pinus flexilis, strobiformis

Limber Pine, Border Pine

Nat.

X

 

S/PS

L

30 – 35'

Slow growing. Native. Gray color bark. Slightly curved or twisted, dark green needles.

Grows well on dry, rocky slopes.

N

N

N

Y

Y

Pinus nigra

Austrian Pine

Nat.

X

 

S/PS

L

30 – 35'

Dense pyramidal form. Very hardy dark green needles. Moderate growth rate. Good tree for specimen of mass planting.

Good substitute for Ponderosa Pine. Adaptable.

N

N

N

Y

Y

Pinus ponderosa

Ponderosa Pine

Y

X

 

S/PS/SH

L

30 – 35'

Dark green needles. Stout, spreading branches. Large spire-like crown.

Does not transplant well from field. Container stock recommended. Susceptible to insects when stressed.

N

N

N

Y

Y

Pinus sylvestris

Scotch Pine

Nat.

X

 

S

L

30 – 35'

Very hardy, wind resistant tree. Blue-green needles, irregular and picturesque when mature. Moderate growth rate.

Popular for its Christmas tree shape.

N

N

N

Y

Y

Pseudotsuga menziesii

Rocky Mountain Douglas Fir

Y

X

 

S/PS

L

 

Soft, dark green or bluish- green needles. Good specimen tree. Not salt tolerant.

Tolerates most soil conditions. Plant in sunny open location. Use inter-mountain growth varieties.

N

N

N

N

N

Shrubs (Deciduous)

Agave parryi

Parry’s Agave

Y

 

 

S

L

 

Dry, rocky slopes, 4,500 – 8,000 ft. Flowers after approx. 25 years. Up to 18' flower stalks.

Blooms yellow from June – July.

N

N

N

N

N

Amelanchier alnifolia

Saskatoon Serviceberry

Y

 

 

PS

M

3 – 10'

Flowers are white with 1' long strap like petals. Small apple like fruit that is showy and edible.

Produces suckers. Attracts wildlife. Good fall color.

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Amelanchier canadensis

Canadian Serviceberry

Nat.

 

 

S/PS

L

3 – 10'

Narrow upright form. Early white flowers. Yellow, red fall color.

Plant in sunny location.

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Amelanchier utahensis

Utah Serviceberry

Y

 

 

S/PS

L

 

Rocky slopes in pinyon/juniper & ponderosa woodlands, 2,000 – 7,500 ft.

Blooms white from April – May. Drought tolerant.

N

N

N

N

N

Amorpha fruiticosa

False Indigo

Y

 

 

PS

M

3 – 6'

Beautiful dark purple spikes. Individual spikes may contain 50 – 100 flowers.

Native to prairies of Minnesota. Drought tolerant, long-lived.

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Arctostaphylos species

Manzanita

Y

 

 

PS

M

3 – 8'

Branches with red to purple bark. Urn-shape white or pink flowers.

Palatable to animals. Certain species attract hummingbirds.

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Aronia melancarpa

Black Chokeberry

Y

 

 

S/PS

L

 

Tolerant of cold, heat, wind, dry and damp soils. White flowers in spring followed by black berries and red leaves in fall.

Very ornamental plant. Grows well under trees.

N

N

N

N

N

Artemisia frigida

Fringed Sage

Y

 

 

S

L

 

Dry, rocky soils, 5,500 – 8,000 ft in semi-evergreen, long lived, and drought tolerant.

 

N

N

N

N

N

Artemisia ludoviciana

Prairie Sage

Y

 

 

S/PS

L

 

Native habitat is in plains, woodlands clearings, and rock gardens.

 

N

N

N

N

N

Artemisia tridentata

Basin Big Sagebrush

Y

 

 

S

L

 

Dry plains, mesas, 5,000 – 8,000 ft. semi-evergreen, drought tolerant, and several subspecies.

 

N

N

N

N

N

Atriplex canescens

Four-Wing Saltbrush

Y

 

 

S

L

 

Wide range, sandy soils, 2,000 – 8,000 ft.

Saline tolerant, erosion control, and important to wildlife.

N

N

N

N

N

Barberis thunbergii

Japanese Barberry

N

 

 

S/PS

L

 

Hardy, graceful growth habit with slender, arching, spiny branches. Green foliage with red berries.

Clip or train into hedge or shrub.

N

N

N

N

N

Barberis species

Barberry

Y

 

 

PS

M

3 – 8'

Yellow flowers bloom in April and June. Flowers turn into edible berries.

Branches are thorny. Has great resprouting ability. Not for use near pedestrians.

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Buddleia davidii

Butterfly Bush, Summer Lilac

Nat.

 

 

S/PS

M

 

Fast growing. Dark green and white leaves, lilac and orange flower clusters.

Hardy. Needs well-drained soil. Cut back in spring. Susceptible to spider mites.

N

N

N

N

N

Caragana aborescens

Siberian Peashrub

Y

 

 

S/PS

L

 

Multi-stemmed hedge or single-stemmed small tree. Yellow, fragrant flowers.

Hardy, fast growing. Prune for hedge with thorns. Good for windbreak. Dwarf species available.

N

N

N

N

N

Caragana species

Mountain Mohagany

Y

 

 

S/PS

L

3 – 12'

Leaves green on top, and silver underneath. Open branching pattern.

Native. Prune to thicken.

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Caryopteris x clandonensis

Blue Mist Spirea, Bluebeard

Nat.

 

 

S/PS

M

 

Blue flowers in late summer. Can handle drought. Native to western U.S.

Might die back completely in winter but will come back in spring.

N

N

N

N

N

Cercocarpus montanus

Curl-leaf Mountain Mahogany

Y

 

 

S/PS

L

 

Narrow curled leaves. Slow growing in coldest areas.

Extremely drought tolerant. Native to western U.S.

N

N

N

N

N

Cercoparpus species

Mountain Mahogany

Y

 

 

PS

M

3 – 12'

Flowers without petals but distinctive sepals with pinkish to reddish petal like lobes.

Wildlife attractive in fall and winter because conspicuous fruits. Drought tolerant.

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Chaenomeles species

Flowering Quince

Nat.

 

 

S

M

3 – 4'

Variety in form and height. White, pink or red flowers.

Tolerates temp. extremes. Train as hedge or buffer.

N

N

N

N

N

Chamaebatiaria millefolium

Fernbush

Y

 

 

S

L

3 – 4'

Leaves look like tiny ferns but plant unrelated to ferns.

Wildlife friendly. Loved by dear and elk. Salt tolerant.

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Cornus alba

Siberian Dogwood

Nat.

 

 

S/PS

M

 

Bright red twigs and small white flowers in spring. New shoots have the brightest color.

Grows quickly.

N

N

N

N

N

Cornus stolonifera

Red-Osier Dogwood, Red Twig Dogwood

Nat.

 

 

S/PS

H

3 – 12'

Red twigs contrast with green leaves, white flowers.

Native. Yellow twig and variegated leaved varieties available.

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Cotoneaster acutifolia

Peking Cotoneaster

Nat.

 

 

S/PS

L

 

Glossy green when mature. Useful as hedge or screen.

Black fruit. Red foliage in fall.

N

N

N

N

N

Cotoneaster apiculated

Cranberry Cotoneaster

Nat.

 

 

S/PS

L

3 – 9'

Spreading growth habit. Roundish shiny leaves. Bright green, red fall color, red fruit in clusters.

Good for slope cover. Ground cover.

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Cotoneaster divaricata

Spreading Cotoneaster

Nat.

 

 

S/PS

M

4 – 9'

Stiff branches spread from center of shrub. Dark green leaves, pale beneath, red berries

Good for slope cover.

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Euonymus alata

Winged Euonymus, Burning Bush

Nat.

 

 

S/PS

M

 

Wide growth pattern, flat- topped appearance. Dark green leaves, red in fall, orange-red fruit.

Use as background or screening plant. Compact variety available.

N

N

N

N

N

Euonymus alata “compacta”

Dwarf Burning Bush

Nat.

 

 

S/PS

M

 

Dense shrub about 3' wide.

Brilliant red in fall.

N

N

N

N

N

Forestiera neomexicana

New Mexican Olive

Y

 

 

S

L

 

Grows well on hillsides, mesas, and river valleys

Blooms yellow in fall

N

N

N

N

N

Forsythia suspensa

Forsythia

Nat.

 

 

S

M

 

Early bloomer with yellow flowers. Need pruning.

Tolerates most soils. Dwarf varieties available.

N

N

N

N

N

Gutierriza sarothrae

Snakeweed

Y

 

 

S

L

3 – 5'

Small golden yellow flowers that bloom in the fall.

Purple veined leaves.

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Hibiscus syriacus

Rose-of-Sharon

Nat.

 

 

S

M

 

Fast growing. Resembles a bush full of holly flowers in late summer. Needs winter protection for the first few years.

Prune for larger blossoms.

N

N

N

N

N

Holodiscus dumosus

Rock Spire, Mountain Spray

Y

 

 

S

L

4 – 6'

Attracts bees, butterflies, and birds. Has pink blooms in spring.

Drought tolerant. Good plant for xeriscaping.

N

N

N

N

N

Kerria japonica plantitiora

Japanese Kerria

Nat.

 

 

S/PS

M

 

Open, graceful, round shrub. Bright green leaves, small yellow flowers.

Prime after flowering. Open graceful form.

N

N

N

N

N

Kniphofia amabillia

Beauty Bush

Nat.

 

 

S

M

 

Upright shrub, pink flowers.

Requires some pruning. Scraggly. Flowers.

N

N

N

N

N

Ligustrum aureum

Golden Privet

Nat.

 

 

S/PS

M

 

Yellow edged leaves. White spring flowers. Attracts bees.

Clip as hedge or stand alone.

N

N

N

N

N

Ligustrum vulgare

Privet

Nat.

 

 

S/PS

M

 

Fast growing shrub that can be clipped into formal shapes.

Small white flowers cluster in summer.

N

N

N

N

N

Lonicera involucrata

Twinberry

Nat.

 

 

S/PS

M

 

Flowers are orange-red and appear in March-July. With paired purple and black berries. Dark green foliage.

Native to most mountain areas of the Western U.S.

N

N

N

N

N

Lonicera korolkowii

Red-Flowered Honeysuckle

Nat.

 

 

S/PS

M

 

Many small rose color flowers in late spring.

Great background shrub.

N

N

N

N

N

Lonicera t. arnolds red

Arnolds Red Honeysuckle

Nat.

 

 

S/PS

M

 

Tolerant of harsh conditions.

Blooms red in summer.

N

N

N

N

N

Lonicera tatarica

Tatarian Honeysuckle

Nat.

 

 

S/PS

M

 

Snow white to pink flowers in late spring. Birds love the late red spring berries.

Undermining and disease resistant.

N

N

N

N

N

Lonicera utahensis

Utah Honeysuckle

Nat.

 

 

PS

M

 

Likes open coniferous forest.

Orange berries attract wildlife.

N

N

N

N

N

Perovskia atriplicfolia

Russian Sage

Nat.

 

 

S

M

3 – 4'

Tubular lavender flowers on grayish white stems. Pungent odor when crushed.

Best in mass planting. Cut back to ground before growth. Drought tolerant.

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Philadelphus species

Mock Orange

Nat.

 

 

S/PS

M

 

Fountain form, white flowers.

Prune after blooming.

N

N

N

N

N

Physocarpus opulifolius

Dwarf Ninebark

Nat.

 

 

S/PS

M

 

Rust color in fall. Good shade shrub for Flagstaff.

Blooms white/ pink in spring.

N

N

N

N

N

Physocarpus species

Ninebark

Y

 

 

S/PS

M

 

Peeling bark, white flowers.

Hardy.

N

N

N

N

N

Potentilla fruticosa

Bush Cinquefoil

Y

 

 

S/PS

L

 

Tolerant to most soil conditions. Bloom profuse yellow, white, yellow-orange.

Native. Hardy. Several species.

N

N

N

N

N

Potentilla fruticosa

Potentilla

Nat.

 

 

S

M

3 – 6'

Showy bright-golden yellow five petal flower. Brown shredded bark.

Suckers, difficult to prune.

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Prunus besseyi

Western Sand Cherry

Y

 

 

S

M

3 – 6'

Clusters of beautiful white flowers. Silver green leaves. Black berries.

Hardy plant. Birds feed on berries. Short lived.

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Prunus cistena

Purple Leaf Sand Cherry

Nat.

 

 

S/PS

L

 

Can be shaped into bush or small tree. Has white-pink flowers in spring.

Bears small black-purple fruit but hardly noticeable due to poor contrast to leaves.

N

N

N

N

N

Prunus tomentosa

Nanking Cherry

Y

 

 

S/PS

L

 

Hardy. Fruiting shrub. Edible scarlet fruit, dark green open foliage. White flowers.

Good fall color.

N

N

N

N

N

Prunus x cistena

Dwarf Red-leaf Plum

Nat.

 

 

S

L/M

 

Multi-branched shrub with purple leaves. Can be trained as a tree.

White – pink flower in early spring.

N

N

N

N

N

Purshia tridentata

Antelope Bitterbrush

Y

 

 

S

L

 

Rocky hillsides, slopes and mesas.

Important wildlife species.

N

N

N

N

N

Pyracantha fortuneana

Cherri Berri Pyracantha

Nat.

 

 

S

L

 

Extremely hardy. Clusters of orange berries in fall, eaten by birds.

Blooms in fall.

N

N

N

N

N

Rhamnus cathartica

Common Buckthorn

Y

 

 

S/PS

L

 

Bright green leaves, yellow in fall. Black fruit. Tall and narrow form.

Good wind break.

N

N

N

N

N

Rhus aromatica

Fragrant Sumac

Nat.

 

 

PS

M

3 – 8'

Flowers can be white or yellow. Attractive orange or red fall color.

Leaves fragrant when crushed. Often confused for poison-ivy. Short lived.

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Rhus glabra

Smooth Sumac

Nat.

 

 

S/PS

L

3 – 8'

Open growth pattern. Deep green leaves, whitish beneath, red fall color.

Fast growing. Good for slopes. Invasive to foundations.

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Rhus ovata

Sugar Sumac

Y

 

 

S

L

 

Found on slopes and mesas.

Xeric broadleaf. Usually assoc. with Manzanita.

N

N

N

N

N

Rhus trilobata

Squaw Bush, Three Leaf Sumac

Nat.

 

 

S/PS

L

4 – 8'

Clumpy growth habit. Good fall color. Good in dry, rocky soil.

Good as a low hedge.

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Rhus typhina

Staghorn Sumac

Nat.

 

 

S/PS

L

5 – 8'

Large with upright growth habit. Leaves deep green above, white below. Decorative fruit.

Red fall color. Large shrub.

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Ribes alpinum

Alpine Currant

Nat.

 

 

S/PS

L

 

Has dense, twiggy growth. Inconspicuous flowers and fruit. Good fall color.

Flower and rock garden specimen/ accent shrubs. Can be pruned into hedge.

N

N

N

N

N

Ribes aureum

Golden Currant

Y

 

 

S/PS

L

3'

Erect growth, light green leaves. Cluster of small yellow, fragrant leaves.

Good fall color. Can be pruned into hedge.

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Ribes inebrians

Wax Currant

Y

 

 

PS

L

3 – 6'

Greenish-white to pinkish tubular flowers. Red or orange fruit.

Furry texture under leaves. Densely branched.

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Ribes rubrum

Red Lake Currant

Nat.

 

 

S/PS

M

 

Delicious edible currants.

Blooms pink in spring.

N

N

N

N

N

Rosa f. persian yellow

Persian Yellow Rose

Nat.

 

 

S/PS

M

 

Double, yellow blossoms. Prolific old fashioned rose.

Blooms yellow in June.

N

N

N

N

N

Rosa rugosa

Shrub Rosa

Nat.

 

 

S

 

 

Very hardy, vigorous rose. Blooms in late spring in a range of color depending on cultivar. Showy red-orange to orange fall color.

Can tolerate dry, sandy soils and light shade. Bright red tomato shaped fruit.

N

N

N

N

N

Rosa woodsii

Woods Rose

Y

 

 

S

L

 

Sparse branching pattern. Single pink and white blossoms in spring and summer. Rose hips persist throughout the winter.

Native to western and central North America.

N

N

N

N

N

Salix exigua

Coyote Willow

Y

 

 

S/PS

M

 

Grows on slopes, woodland clearings and meadows.

Grows fast and helps stabilize soils.

N

N

N

N

N

Sambucus caerulea

Blue Elderberry

Y

 

 

S/PS

M

 

Has white flower clusters spring to summer.

Edible blue-black fruit for birds and humans. Native from California north to Canada and east to the Rockies.

N

N

N

N

N

Sambucus species Elderberry

Blue Elderberry

Y

 

 

S/PS

L

 

Creamy white flowers. Has black, blue or red fruit depending on species.

Fast growing. Golden Elder has yellow flowers most of the summer. Screening plant for three seasons.

N

N

N

N

N

Shepherdia argentia

Russet Buffaloberry

Y

 

 

PS

M

 

Grows well in coniferous forests.

Birds eat the berries, makes for a good hedge.

N

N

N

N

N

Spiraca species

Spiraea

Nat.

 

 

S/PS

L

 

Variety in form and height, and flowering season. White, pink or red flowers.

Hardy. Prune after blooming. Compact, spreading to tall graceful types available.

N

N

N

N

N

Symphoricarpos albus

Snowberry

Nat.

 

 

S/PS

L

 

Upright or spreading shrub. Small pink or white flowers in clusters.

Fruits best in full sun with white berry.

N

N

N

N

N

Symphoricarpos oreophilus

Mountain Snowberry

Y

 

 

PS

M

 

Native habitat is on wooded slopes and along streams.

Has white berries, blooms yellow in fall.

N

N

N

N

N

Syringa vulgaris

Lilac

Nat.

 

 

PS

M/H

6 – 15'

Dark green heart shaped leaf, cluster deeply fragrant purple flowers.

Hardy shrub, produces suckers. Flowers are inconsistent due to frost.

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Viburnum dentatum

Arrowwood Viburnum

Nat.

 

 

S/PS

M

 

Dark green and red in fall color. Birds like the fruits.

White flat clusters of flowers occur in June.

N

N

N

N

N

Viburnum opulus

Cranberry Bush

Nat.

 

 

PS

H

4 – 9'

Fragrant and attractive flowers. Stunning fall foliage. Blooms get frosted here.

Fruit appealing to birds and other wildlife (deer). Slow growing. Has shade tolerance.

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Viburnum x burkwoodii

Burkwood Viburnum

Nat.

 

 

S/PS

 

 

Deciduous but often evergreen shrub with glossy green foliage.

Pink buds open white in early spring. Red fruit turns black in summer.

N

N

N

N

N

Viburnum x carlcephalum

Fragrant Viburnum

Nat.

 

 

S/PS

M

 

Low maintenance plant with pink or white flowers.

Foliage turns red/ purple in fall.

N

N

N

N

N

Shrubs (Evergreen)

Berberis fremontii

Fremont Barberry

Y

 

 

S

L

 

Pinyon/ juniper, ponderosa woodlands, 4,000 – 7,000 ft.

Evergreen with a holly like leaf.

N

N

N

N

N

Buxus microphylia, “koreana”

Korean Boxwood

Nat.

 

 

S/PS

M

 

Low hedge or wall planting against house susceptible to winter burn.

Slow growing. Plant in protected location.

N

N

N

N

N

Chrysothamnus nauseosus

Rubber Rabbit Brush

Y

 

 

S

L

3 – 6'

Aromatic, gray-green foliage, yellow flowers in late summer.

Twiggy looking. Hardy. Drought tolerant.

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Cotoneaster congestus

Pyrnees Cotoneaster

Nat.

 

 

S/PS

M

 

Dense, rounded form with branches curving downward. Dark green leaves, small red fruit.

Good on rocky slopes. Semi- evergreen to evergreen.

N

N

N

N

N

Cowania mexicana

Cliffrose

Y

 

 

S

M

3 – 9'

Shrub has many branches and somewhat straggly appearing. Small yellow rose-like flowers.

Native. Needs some pruning. Drought tolerant.

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Fallugia paradox

Apache Plume

Y

 

 

S

L

3 – 8'

Dark green leaves, in clusters. White rose-like flowers.

Native. Rugged looking. Drought tolerant.

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Juniperus chinensis

Chinese Juniper

Nat.

 

 

S

L

 

Flowers are yellow to orange- brown and come out in March. Can tolerate adverse conditions, except water logged soils.

Fall colors range from a creamy yellow to a blue green to grey green.

N

N

N

N

N

Juniperus sabina

Tamarix Juniper

Nat.

 

 

S/PS

M

 

15' spread

 

N

N

N

N

N

Juniperus species

Juniper (‘Arcadia’, ‘Blue Chip’, ‘Broadmoor,’ ‘Buffalo’, ‘Scandia,’ etc.)

Nat.

 

 

S/PS

L

3 – 15'

Many forms and color varieties. Easy to grow once established.

Fast growing. Hardy. Very popular.

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Juniperus squamata

Blue Star Juniper

Nat.

 

 

S

M

 

Drought tolerant. Doesn’t like humidity and high night temperatures.

Low growing, dense shrub, with silvery-blue foliage. Low maintenance.

N

N

N

N

N

Juniperus x pfitzeriana

Sea Green Juniper

Nat.

 

 

S/PS

M

 

Broad arching limbs, 5' spread.

 

N

N

N

N

N

Mahonia aquifolium

Oregon Grape Holly

Nat.

 

 

S/PS/SH

M

3 – 6'

Glossy, holly-like leaves. Blue berries.

Grows best against a wall as low hedge/screen. Good looking all year.

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Picea glauca “conica”

Dwarf Alberta Spruce

Nat.

 

 

PS

M

 

Compact and pyramidal tree. Short fine needles. Yellow/bright green in color, makes handsome tub plant.

Slow growing. Plant in protected location. Susceptible to winter burn. High risk.

N

N

N

N

N

Pinus mugo

Mugo Pine

Nat.

 

 

S

L

 

Variable sizes. From prostrate shrub to moderate size tree. Open growing, spreading.

Slow growing.

N

N

N

N

N

Pyracantha angustifolia

Pyracantha, Narrowleaf Firethorn

Nat.

 

 

S/PS/SH

L

 

Densely branched shrub. Glossy, green leaves, orange fruit, white flowers and thorns.

Fast growing. Not evergreen in harsh winters. Need pruning. Use as espalier on wall.

N

N

N

N

N

Yucca baccata

Banana Yucca

Y

 

 

PS

L

 

Native to dry hills and slopes.

Has flowering stalk that grows to 5'.

N

N

N

N

N

Yucca species

Yucca

Y

 

 

S

L

 

Many species have edible fruits. Has sword shaped leaves with spikes of white flowers.

Can only be pollinated by the Yucca Moth or by hand. Be sure to select a cold tolerant species.

N

N

N

N

N

Groundcovers

Achillea lanulosa

Western Yarrow

Y

 

 

S/PS

L

 

Native habitat is in ponderosa woodlands, meadows, and between 5,500 and 11,500 ft.

White blooms from July – October.

N

N

N

N

N

Achillea tomentosa

Wooly Yarrow

Y

 

 

S

M

6 – 18"

Flat spreading mat of fern-like, deep green, hairy leaves. Golden flower heads top of 6 – 10" stems.

Good edging and a neat ground cover for small areas. Use in rock gardens.

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Aegopodium podagraria

Bishop’s Weed

Nat.

 

 

S/PS

H

6 – 18"

Light green, divided leaflets make a low dense mat.

Very vigorous ground cover, spreads by underground rootstocks.

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Agastache cana

Hummingbird Mint

Y

 

 

S/PS

M

 

Grows in dry mountain slopes (i.e. TX, NM, CO)

Has purple blooms in September and October.

N

N

N

N

N

Ajuga species

Carpet Bugle

Nat.

 

 

S/PS/S H

L

6 – 18"

Forms mat of dark green leaves. White, pink or blue flowers.

Fast growing.

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Antennaria parvifolia

Rocky Mountian Pussytoes

Y

 

 

S/PS

L

 

Native habitat is in ponderosa woodlands and meadows between 5,000 and 12,000 ft.

White blooms in May and June.

N

N

N

N

N

Antennaria rosea

Pussytoes

Y

 

 

S/PS

M

6 – 18"

Silvery green foliage with white cottony flowers. Good in rock gardens.

Native. Takes light foot traffic. Two species – one for sun, one for shade.

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Anthemis nobilis

Chamomile

Y

 

 

S

L

 

Evergreen. Forms mat of bright green leaves and daisy-like flowers.

Can be moved.

N

N

N

N

N

Aquilegia chrysantha

Golden Columbine

Y

 

 

S/PS

M

 

Grows in moist woodlands, aspen groves, and between 3,000 and 11,000 ft.

Yellow blooms from June – September

N

N

N

N

N

Aquilegia desertorum

Red Columbine

Nat.

 

 

S/PS

M

 

Grows in moist woodlands, canyon slopes and between 6,800 and 8,000 ft.

Has red blooms from June – September.

N

N

N

N

N

Arabis alpine

Mountain Rockcress

Nat.

 

 

S

M

6 – 18"

Low, tufted, rough haired plant, 2' wide, dense white flowers in clusters.

Have attractive year round foliage and clusters of flowers. Needs good drainage.

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Arabis caucasica

Wall Rockcress

Nat.

 

 

S

M

6 – 18'

Forms mats of gray-green leaves, white flowers, 11/2' wide, excellent ground covering for spring-flowering bulbs.

Have attractive year round foliage and clusters of flowers. Needs good drainage.

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Arctostaphylos uva-ursl

Bearberry, Kinnickinick

Nat.

 

 

S/PS

L

 

Prostrate, spreading forms. Glossy green leaves, white flowers, red berries.

Good plant for north and east exposures and slopes. Needs well drained soil.

N

N

N

N

N

Arenaria fendleri

Fendler’s Sandwort

Y

 

 

S

L

 

Native habitat is in ponderosa clearings, high meadows, and 4,000 – 12,000 ft. elevation

Blooms are white and last from June – September.

N

N

N

N

N

Artemisa species

Sagewort

Y

 

 

S

L

 

Silvery green foliage. Small, yellow flowers. Needs to be trimmed.

Native. Fast growing. Many species available.

N

N

N

N

N

Artemesia schmidtiana

Berberis Repens

Nat.

 

 

S

L

 

Forms dome of silvery, wooly, leaves. Sage-like aroma.

 

N

N

N

N

N

Asclepias tuberosa

Butterflyweed

Y

 

 

S

L

 

Grows in open grasslands, ponderosa meadows, and between 4,000 and 8,000 ft.

Yellow blooms from June – September. Salt tolerant.

N

N

N

N

N

Aurinia saxatilis

Basket of Gold Alyssum

Nat.

 

 

S/PS

M

6 – 12"

Grey 2-5" leaves from a spreading evergreen mound, dense clusters of golden yellow flowers.

Tolerates any well drained soil, use as any foreground plant in borders. Short bloom time.

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Berberis repens

Oregon Grape

Y

 

 

S/PS

L

 

Dark green, glossy leaves, yellow flowers, edible blue berries.

Native.

N

N

N

N

N

Berberis tomentosum

Creeping Barberry

Y

 

 

PS

L

 

Dark green glossy leaf. Yellow flowers, edible blue berries. Bronzy leaves in winter.

Native. Slow to spread. Susceptible to winter burn.

N

N

N

N

N

Callirhoe involucrata

Winecups

Nat.

 

 

S/PS

M

 

Native habitat is in dry areas in Utah above 6,000 ft.

Blooms pink from June – September.

N

N

N

N

N

Calylophus hartwegii

Hartweg Evening Primrose

Y

 

 

S

L

 

Native habitat in pinyon / juniper hillsides & plains. Elevation 3,000 – 7,000 ft.

Blooms yellow In May and June.

N

N

N

N

N

Castilleja integra

Paintbrush

Y

 

 

S/PS

L

 

Native habitat in pinyon / juniper and ponderosa woodlands; between 3,000 and 8,500 ft.

Blooms red and lasts from June – October.

N

N

N

N

N

Cerastim tomentosum

Snow in Summer

Nat.

 

 

S/PS

M

6 – 18"

Perennial, spreading dense, tuft mats of silvery-grey leaves, white flowers.

Fast growing.

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Coreopsis auriculata

Mouse Ear Coreopsis

Nat.

 

 

S

M

6 – 18"

Spreads by underground runners to form a 2' wide clump, bright orange-yellow flowers.

Best used in front of taller plants, in borders and edging.

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Coreopsis tintrgra

Annual Coreopsis

Nat.

 

 

S/PS

L

 

Naturalized; native to the plains region.

Red blooms from June – October.

N

N

N

N

N

Cotoneaster horizontalis

Rock Cotoneaster

Nat.

 

 

S/PS

M

 

Low growing, spreading to 10', bright green above, pale beneath. Red berries.

Good for bank cover. Semi- evergreen.

N

N

N

N

N

Datura meteloides

Sacred Datura

Nat.

 

 

S/PS

L

 

Native habitat is in canyon slopes, desert washes; elevation 1,000 – 6,000 ft.

Blooms white from June – September.

N

N

N

N

N

Delosperma cooperii

Purple Ice Plant

Nat.

 

 

S

L

 

Very hardy plant. Good for rock gardens

Has pink blooms from June – August.

N

N

N

N

N

Delosperma nubigenum

Yellow Ice Plant

Nat.

 

 

S

L

 

Succulent, bright green leaves. Red fall color, yellow flowers.

Good slope cover and in rock gardens. Feed for healthier plants. Do not over water.

N

N

N

N

N

Delphinium geranifolia

Larkspur

Nat.

 

 

PS

M

 

Grows in coniferous forest clearings at 6,500 – 9,500 ft.

Blooms blue from July – September.

N

N

N

N

N

Echinacea purpurea

Purple Coneflower

Nat.

 

 

PS

M

 

Native to plains.

Purple blooms from July – September.

N

N

N

N

N

Erigeron divergens

Fleabane

Y

 

 

S/PS

L

 

Native habitat pinyon, juniper, ponderosa woods and plains at 1,000 – 9,000 ft.

White blooms from July – September.

N

N

N

N

N

Erigeron flagellaris

Whiplash Daisy

Y

 

 

S/PS

L

 

Grows in woodlands and meadows at 3,000 – 9,500 ft.

White blooms from June – August.

N

N

N

N

N

Eriogonium racemosum

Redroot Buckwheat

Y

 

 

S/PS

L

 

Native habitat is in ponderosa woodlands and meadows; from 5,000 – 9,000 ft. elevation.

Blooms white from July – September.

N

N

N

N

N

Eriogonium umbellatum

Sulfer Buckwheat

Y

 

 

S

L

 

Native habitat is in ponderosa woodlands and meadows; from 5,000 – 9,000 ft. elevation.

Yellow blooms in August and September.

N

N

N

N

N

Eschscholtzia californica

California Poppy

Nat.

 

 

S

L

 

Naturalized in urban areas.

Orange blooms in June and July.

N

N

N

N

N

Fragaria chiloensis

Wild Strawberries

Nat.

 

 

S/PS

M

6 – 18"

Evergreen. Occasional small edible berries. Needs annual mowing.

Good for slopes, water to spread and for berries.

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Fragaria ovalis

American Stawberry

Y

 

 

PS/SH

M

 

Natural habitat in plains, mesas, ponderosa clearings between 3,500 – 7,000 ft elevation.

White blooms from June – September.

N

N

N

N

N

Gaillardia pinnatifida

Adobe Blanketflower

Y

 

 

S

L

 

Native habitat is woodland clearings, 3,500 – 5,500 ft. elevation.

Red blooms from June – September.

N

N

N

N

N

Gaillardia pulchella

Blanketflower

Y

 

 

S

L

 

Native habitat in ponderosa woodlands and meadows between 5,000 – 9,000 ft. elevation.

Red blooms from April – September.

N

N

N

N

N

Galium odoratum

Sweet Woodruff

Nat.

 

 

PS/SH

L

 

Lush dark green leaves, white flowers.

Fast growing.

N

N

N

N

N

Geranium richardsonii

White Cranesbill

Y

 

 

PS/SH

M

 

Grows wild in rich soil in mixed forests and canyons from 6,500 – 11,500 ft. elevation.

Blooms red from June – September.

N

N

N

N

N

Geum triflorum

Prairie Smoke

Y

 

 

PS

M

 

Native habitat is in woodlands, conifer forest, and meadows between 5,000 – 10,000 ft. elevation.

Blooms red from May – August

N

N

N

N

N

Helenium hoopesii

Western Sneezeweed

Nat.

 

 

S/PS

M

 

Native habitat in aspen groves and mountain meadows between 5,000 – 10,000 ft.

Yellow blooms from June – September.

N

N

N

N

N

Helianthella quinquenervis

Aspen Sunflower

Y

 

 

S/PS

L

 

Native habitat in plains, mesas, and ponderosa clearings between 1,500 – 8,000 ft. elevation.

Yellow blooms from July – October.

N

N

N

N

N

Helianthus maximillani

Maximillian’s Sunflower

Y

 

 

S

L

 

From New Mexico. Very showy.

Has yellow blooms from September – October.

N

N

N

N

N

Heterotheca villosa

Gold Aster

Nat.

 

 

S/PS

L

 

Native habitat is on shaded moist hillsides between 4,000 – 8,000 ft. elevation.

Yellow blooms from July – October.

N

N

N

N

N

Heterotheca villosa

Coral Bells

Nat.

 

 

S/PS

M

 

Native habitat in woodland meadows between 5,000 – 9,000 ft. elevation.

Blooms red from May – September.

N

N

N

N

N

Iberis sempervirens

Candytuft

Nat.

 

 

S/PS

L

 

Evergreen. Dark green leaves, white flowers.

Flowers should be pruned.

N

N

N

N

N

Ipomopsis aggregata

Scarlet Gilia

Y

 

 

S

L

 

Native habitat is in ponderosa woodland clearings between 5,000 – 9,000 ft. elevation.

Blooms red from June – September.

N

N

N

N

N

Iris missouriensis

Western Blue Flag

Y

 

 

S/PS

M

 

Native habitat is in moist clearings in forest and aspen groves between 6,000 – 9,000 ft. elevation.

Blooms blue from May – September.

N

N

N

N

N

Juniperus horizontalis

Juniper

Nat.

 

 

S/PS

L

 

Low creeping shrub. Many prostrate varieties available.

Evergreen.

N

N

N

N

N

Juniperus horizontalis

Blue Rug (Carpet) Juniper

Nat.

 

 

S/PS

L

6 – 18"

Leaf colors include green shades as well as silvery blue, gray and creamy yellow.

Very drought tolerant evergreen.

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Linum lewisii

Blue Flax

Y

 

 

S/PS

L

 

Native habitat is mixed woodland clearings between 3,500 – 9,500 ft. elevation.

Blooms blue from May – September. Salt tolerant.

N

N

N

N

N

Lonicera species

Honeysuckle

Nat.

 

 

S

L/M

4 – 10'

Deep green shiny leaves. Showy white and red trumpet like flowers.

Very fragrant scent. This plant is appreciated at the pedestrian level not vehicular.

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Lupinus argenteus

Silver Lupine

Y

 

 

S/PS

L

 

Native habitat is pinyon/ juniper woodlands between 6,000 – 9,500 ft. elevation.

Blooms blue from May – September.

N

N

N

N

N

Lysimachis nummularia

Moneywort, Creeping Jenny

Nat.

 

 

PS/SH

M

 

Form light green mat of roundish leaves. Yellow flowers.

Creeps with runners up to 2' long.

N

N

N

N

N

Mahonia repens

Creeping Mahonia

Y

 

 

S/PS

L/M

6 – 18"

Dull blue-green leaves turn bronzy to pinkish in fall.

Makes a good ground cover, spreads quickly.

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Machaeranthera canescens

Purple Aster

Y

 

 

S/PS

L

 

Native habitat is woodland clearings, 3,000 – 7,000 ft. elevation.

Blooms purple in September and October.

N

N

N

N

N

Mirabilis multiflora

Desert Four O’Clock

Y

 

 

S

L

 

Natural habitat in open sandy areas and mesas between 2,500 – 6,500 ft. elevation.

Purple blooms from April – September.

N

N

N

N

N

Monarda menthaefolia

Beebalm

Y

 

 

PS

L

 

Native habitat is along stream banks and springs between 5,000 – 9,000 ft.

Pink blooms in July and August.

N

N

N

N

N

Nepeta faassenii

Catmint

Nat.

 

 

S/PS

M

6 – 18"

Cut faded flower stems to ground to encourage re- blooming.

Attractive to cats, will need protection. Variety. “Walker’s Low” is good choice.

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Oenothera hookeri

Hooker Evening Primrose

Nat.

 

 

S/PS

L

6 – 18"

Flowers are a silky bright yellow.

Plants need to be shaded in the hottest climates.

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Oenothera pallida

Pale Evening Primrose

Nat.

 

 

S

L

 

Native habitat is dry open areas between 1,000 – 7,500 ft. elevation.

Blooms yellow in July and August.

N

N

N

N

N

Oxytropis lambertii

Lambert’s Locoweed

Y

 

 

S/PS

L

 

Native habitat in ponderosa/fir clearings and meadows 5,000 – 9,000 ft. elevation.

Purple blooms from June – September.

N

N

N

N

N

Pachystima mysinites

Mountain Lover

Nat.

 

 

PS/SH

L

 

Light growing, spreading evergreen. Small shiny leathery leaves. Best in well drained soils.

Good plant for north and east exposures.

N

N

N

N

N

Penstemon barbatus

Scarlet Bugler

Y

 

 

S/PS

L

 

Native habitat in oak and coniferous forests between 4,000 – 10,000 ft. elevation.

Red blooms from June – October.

N

N

N

N

N

Penstemon clutei

Sunset Penstemon

Y

 

 

S

L

 

Occurs only near Sunset Crater in cinder soils.

Pink blooms in June and July.

N

N

N

N

N

Penstemon comarrhinus

Canyon Beardtongue

Y

 

 

S/PS

L

 

Native habitat is ponderosa woodlands between 6,000 – 7,500 ft. elevation.

Purple blooms in June and July.

N

N

N

N

N

Penstemon linarioides

Mat Penstemon

Y

 

 

S

L

 

Naturally occurs on slopes, ponderosa woodlands, and meadows between 4,500 – 9,000 ft. elevation.

Blue blooms from April – September.

N

N

N

N

N

Penstemon pinifolius

Pineleaf Penstemon

Y

 

 

S

L

 

Grows in open areas in mountains of eastern Az.

Red blooms from April – September.

N

N

N

N

N

Penstemon rostriflorus

Bridge’s Penstemon

Y

 

 

S

L

 

Grows on dry slopes between 4,500 – 7,000 ft. elevation.

Red blooms from June – August.

N

N

N

N

N

Penstemon strictus

Rocky Mountain Penstemon

Y

 

 

S

L

 

Native habitat is dry slopes and drainage routes between 7,000 – 8,000 ft. elevation.

Blue blooms in June and July.

N

N

N

N

N

Potentilla hippiana

Silvery Cinquefoil

Y

 

 

S

L

 

Found in ponderosa woodlands and high meadows between 7,000 – 11,500 ft. elevation.

Has yellow blooms from June – September.

N

N

N

N

N

Potentilla tabernaemontanii

Spring Cinquefoil

Nat.

 

 

S/PS

M

6 – 18"

Tough and persistent, small butter yellow flowers.

Can endure limited foot traffic.

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Potentilla thurberi

Red Cinquefoil

Y

 

 

PS

M

 

Found in rich soil mixed forests and mountain canyons.

Red blooms from July – October.

N

N

N

N

N

Pseudocymopterus montanus

Mountain Parsley

Y

 

 

PS

M

 

Found in rich soils in mixed forests and grasslands from 5,500 – 12,000 ft. elevation.

Yellow blooms from May – October.

N

N

N

N

N

Ratibida columnaris

Prairie Coneflower

Y

 

 

S

M

 

Native habitat is in fields and woodland clearings.

Yellow blooms from June – October.

N

N

N

N

N

Rudbeckia laciniata

Cutleaf Coneflower

Y

 

 

PS/SH

M

 

Found in moist mountain meadows and stream-sides.

Blooms yellow from July – September.

N

N

N

N

N

Santolina virens

Santolina

Nat.

 

 

S

L

 

Dark green leaves, mounding form with protrusion of flower stalks. Gray species.

Fast growing. Evergreen.

N

N

N

N

N

Sedum spruium

Sedum or Stonecrop

Nat.

 

 

S/PS

L

6 – 18"

Succulent. Thick and wide leaves. Dark green or bronzy tinted. Pink flowers on trailing stem.

Fast growing. Good on slopes and rock gardens. Many varieties available.

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Sempervivum tectorum

Hens 'N Chicks

Nat.

 

 

S/PS

L

 

Succulent. Gray-green rosettes. Spreads by offsets. Red flowers in clusters.

Good for rock gardens.

N

N

N

N

N

Solidago sparsiflora

Sparse-flowered Goldenrod

Y

 

 

S/PS

L

 

Native habitat is chaparral and ponderosa clearings between 2,000 – 8,500 ft. elevation.

Yellow blooms from June – October.

N

N

N

N

N

Sphaeralcea coccinea

Red Mallow

Y

 

 

S

L

 

Grows in woodland clearings and mesas.

Scarlet blooms from July – September.

N

N

N

N

N

Stachys byzanina

Lambs Ears

Nat.

 

 

S/PS

L

6 – 18"

Perennial. Soft, thick, tongue- shaped leaves. Whorls of small purple flowers.

Variety “Silver Standard” is good selection.

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Tanacetum densum

Partridge Feather

Nat.

 

 

S

L

 

Feathers foliage.

No blooms.

N

N

N

N

N

Teucrium chamaedrys

Germander

Nat.

 

 

S

L

 

Dark green leaves, flowers draw bees.

Good in poor, rocky, well drained soils. Prostrate varieties available.

N

N

N

N

N

Thalictrum fendleri

Fendler’s Meadow Rue

Y

 

 

PS/SH

L

 

Native habitat in ponderosa, conifer forest and canyons.

White blooms from May – August.

N

N

N

N

N

Thermopsis pinetorum

Golden Pea

Y

 

 

PS/SH

L

 

Grows in mixed forests, aspen groves and meadows.

Yellow blooms in May and June.

N

N

N

N

N

Trifolium repens, hybridum

Clover

Nat.

 

 

S

M

 

Bright green, white or pink flowers.

Takes light foot traffic.

N

N

N

N

N

Thymus lanuginous

Wholly Thyme

Nat.

 

 

S/PS

M

 

Very fragrant. Also edible.

Has blue blooms in July.

N

N

N

N

N

Thymus serpyllum

Thyme

Nat.

 

 

S/PS

M

 

Scented foliage. Pink or purple flowers.

Fast growing. Takes light foot traffic.

N

N

N

N

N

Verbena macdougalii

New Mexican Vervain

Y

 

 

S

L

 

Grows in ponderosa and mixed conifer forests.

Purple blooms from July – September.

N

N

N

N

N

Veronica repens

Speedwell

Nat.

 

 

S/PS/SH

M

 

Leaf covered prostrate stems, seem moss-like. Lavender or white flowers.

Good cover for small landscape areas.

N

N

N

N

N

Viguiera multiflora

Goldeneye

Y

 

 

S

L

 

Grows in clearings in woodlands.

Yellow blooms from September – October.

N

N

N

N

N

Vinca minor

Periwinkle or Myrtle

Nat.

 

 

S/PS/SH

M

6 – 18"

Dark green leaves, blue or pink or white flowers.

Fast growing and spreading can be weedy. Can suffer winter dieback.

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Waldsteinia fragarlodes

Barren Strawberries

Nat.

 

 

S/PS

L

 

Evergreen, strawberry-like foliage, yellow flowers.

 

N

N

N

N

N

Vines

Clematis lingusticifolia

Western Virgins Bower

Y

 

 

PS

H

 

Grows well along streams and in moist canyons.

Very fragrant.

N

N

N

N

N

Clematis pseudoalpina

Virgins Bower

Nat.

 

 

S/PS

L

 

Deciduous, with showy, purple flowers.

Native.

N

N

N

N

N

Hedera species

Ivy

Nat.

 

 

S/PS

L

 

Evergreen, woody vines. Fairly drought tolerant once established.

Holds soils on slopes. Hardy.

N

N

N

N

N

Lonicera arizona

Arizona Honeysuckle

Y

 

 

S/PS

M

 

Grows well in coniferous forests and canyons.

Fast growing. Red blooms in June and July. Attracts hummingbirds.

N

N

N

N

N

Parthenocissus species

Virginia Creeper

Nat.

 

 

S/PS

M

6 – 18"

Deciduous, wood vine. Blueberries. Good fall cover.

 

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Vitis arizonica

Canyon Grape

Y

 

 

PS/ SH

M

 

Grows along streams and in canyons.

Produces edible fruit. Can get bushy.

N

N

N

N

N

Grasses

Agropyron cristatum

Creasted Wheatgrass

Y

 

 

S/PS

L

 

Cool season grass. Coarse texture, bunching rather than a sod forming grass. Best in medium to heavy soils.

Good substitute for Kentucky Blue Grass. Low maintenance.

N

N

N

N

N

Agropyron intermeduim

Intermediate Wheatgrass

Y

 

 

S

L

 

Cool season grass, vigorous and forming. Medium soils.

Good for low maintenance areas.

N

N

N

N

N

Agropyron riparium “sodar”

Steambank Wheat

Y

 

 

S/PS

L

 

Cool season grass. Course texture, sod forming, drought and shade tolerant, wide range of soils.

Good substitute for Kentucky Blue Grass, good cover for outlying low maintenance areas, spring dormant without irrigation.

N

N

N

N

N

Aristida purpurea

Purple Three-Awn

Y

 

 

S

 

 

Grows well in sandy plains and on slopes. Establishes readily on disturbed sites.

Grows between 1,000 – 6,000 ft. Perennial.

N

N

N

N

N

Bouteloua curtipendula

Sideoats Grama

Y

 

 

S/PS

L

 

Grows well on slopes, in woodlands and clearings. Native bunchgrass. May develop rhizomes. Blue-green.

Grows between 2,500 and 7,000 ft. Perennial. Seed head takes a reddish tinge by late summer.

N

N

N

N

N

Bouteloua gracilis

Blue Grama

Y

 

 

S/PS

L

6 – 18"

Perennial sod former, can be used as turf.

Slopes, meadows, clearings, 4,000 – 8,000 ft.

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Buchloe dactyloides

Buffalo Grass

Y

 

 

S

L

 

Warm season grass. Sod forming, medium to fine textured soils.

Combined with cool season type. Difficult to establish from seed, requires patience to achieve mature seed.

N

N

N

N

N

Calamagrostis acutiflora

Karl Foerster Grass

Nat.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Salt tolerant.

 

 

 

 

 

Festuca arizonica

Arizona Fescue

Y

 

 

S/PS

L

 

Native bunch grass. Gray-green color.

Dense at maturity with a foundation configuration. Salt tolerant.

N

N

N

N

N

Festuca arrdinacea

Tall Fescue

Nat.

 

 

S/PS

M

 

Cool season, bunch grass, median/coarse texture, dark green color, wide range of soils.

Improved varieties, rivals Kentucky Blue-Grass in appearance.

N

N

N

N

N

Festuca glauca

Blue Fescue

Nat.

 

 

S/PS

L

6 – 18"

Blue-green perennial bunchgrass, used as an ornamental grass.

Forest openings, rocky slopes 7,000 – 11,000'. Salt tolerant.

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Festuca longifolia

Hard Fescue

 

 

 

S/PS

L

 

Cool season, bunch grass, fine textures. Very green grass.

Establish in autumn or spring, available from cultivars or Sarra.

N

N

N

N

N

Festuca ovina “covar”

Sheep Fescue

 

 

 

S

L

 

Cool season bunch grass. Clumping, fine textures. Very green grass. Best in medium to clay soils.

Establish in autumn or spring, available from cultivars or Sarra.

N

N

N

N

N

Hilaria jamesii

Galleta Grass

 

 

 

S

 

 

Grows well in sandy plateaus, broad valleys, and between 2,500 and 7,000 ft.

Rhizomatous Bunchy Sod Former.

N

N

N

N

N

Koeleria jamesii

Prairie Junegrass

Y

 

 

S/ PS

 

 

Grows well in open forest, woodlands and between 4,000 – 9,000 ft.

Perennial Bunchgrass, forage, and establishes easily.

N

N

N

N

N

Lollum perenne

Perennial Rygrass

Nat.

 

 

S/PS

H

 

Cool season, bunch grass, coarse textured. Best in cool moist areas and in medium to clay soils. Glossy yellow green color. Wide range of soils.

Common constituent of seed mixtures with Kentucky Blue Grass.

N

N

N

N

N

Muhlengergia montana

Mountain Muhly

Y

 

 

S/PS

 

 

Grows well on rocky slopes, forest openings and between 4,500 and 9,500 ft.

Perennial Bunchgrass.

N

N

N

N

N

Muhlengergia rigens

Deer Grass

Y

 

 

S/PS

 

 

Needs deep drainage soils.

 

N

N

N

N

N

Muhlengergia wrightii

Spike Muhly

Y

 

 

S/PS

 

 

Grows between 5,000 and 8,000 ft.

 

N

N

N

N

N

Oryzopsis hymenoides

Indian Ricegrass

Y

 

 

S

L

 

Native Bluegrass. Prefers well- drained soils. Golden color when cured.

Was widely used for food by western Indian tribes.

N

N

N

N

N

Panicum vergatum

Switchgrass

Y

 

 

S/PS

 

 

Likes sandy soils along water courses and elevations between 3,500 and 7,000 ft.

Rhizomatous sod former. Establishes easily.

N

N

N

N

N

Pascopyrum smithii

Western Wheat

 

 

 

S/PS

 

 

Grows on dry hills, forest openings and between 3,000 and 8,000 ft.

Rhizomatous sod former. Establishes easily.

N

N

N

N

N

Phalaris arundinacea

Reed Canary Grass, Ribbon Grass

 

 

 

S/PS

H

 

Native perennial, rhizomatous habitat. Wide range of soils.

Requires supplemental moisture. Variety “Picta” provides striped form.

N

N

N

N

N

Poa fendleriana

Mutton Grass

Y

 

 

S/PS

 

 

Grows in woodlands, sloped meadows and 5,000 and 11,000 ft.

Perennial Bunchgrass.

N

N

N

N

N

Schizachyrium scoparium

Little Bluestem

Y

 

 

S/PS

 

 

Grows in woodlands, meadows, and between 4,000 and 7,500 ft.

Perennial Bunchgrass. Good forage, soil stabilization.

N

N

N

N

N

Sporobolus airodes

Alkali Sacaton

Y

 

 

S

M

 

Native bunchgrass. Cascading form with smoky crown.

Requires moist conditioning during establishment, drought tolerant thereafter.

N

N

N

N

N

Perennials

Agastache rupestris

Licorice Mint

Nat.

 

 

S

L

 

Tolerates drought. Attracts hummingbirds.

Salt tolerant.

 

 

 

 

 

Allyssum species

Alyssum

 

 

 

S/PS

L

 

Mounding, bright green foliage. Yellow flower. Good in rock gardens.

Tolerates any well drained soil, use on slopes or level ground for edging along paths.

N

N

N

N

N

Hemerocallis species

Day Lillies

Nat.

 

 

S/PS

L

 

Clumps of grass-like leaves, lily-like flowers in many colors.

Good border plant.

N

N

N

N

N

Iris species

Iris

Y

 

 

S

L

 

Grass-like leaves, showy flowers. Many varieties available.

Good for borders.

N

N

N

N

N

Kniphofia uvaria

Red Hot Poker

Nat.

 

 

S/PS

L

 

Grass-like leaves, bright red, yellow or orange flowering spikes.

Drought tolerant.

N

N

N

N

N

Lavanduia vera

Lavender

Nat.

 

 

S/PS

L

6 – 18"

Gray-green, aromatic foliage. Fragrant blue flowers.

High risk for healthy survival.

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Lavendula augustifolia

English Lavender

Nat.

 

 

S

M

6 – 18"

Sweet and fragrant, use for perfume and sachets.

Has gray-green to silver gray leaves, blooms mainly in early to mid-summer.

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Penstemon species

Penstemon

Y

 

 

S/PS

L

 

Tubular, bell shaped flower. Popular and varied species.

Fast growing. Good for rock gardens.

N

N

N

N

N

Penstemon grandiflourus

Large Flower Penstemon

Y

 

 

S

L

 

Great Plains native, flowers up to 2" across

Has pink blooms in July

N

N

N

N

N

Phlox subulata

Phlox, Moss Pink

Nat.

 

 

S/PS

L

 

Evergreen, small needle-like leaves. Flowers of white, pink or blue.

Good for poor soils.

N

N

N

N

N

Zinnia grandiflora

Prairie Zinnia

 

 

 

S

L

 

Yellow flowers. Grayish foliage.

Native. Fast growing.

N

N

N

N

N

 

Native?: Y = Native; Nat. = Naturalized

Sun Requirements: S = Req. Full Sun; PS = Partial Shade; SH = Full Shade

Water Needs: L = Low; M = Medium; H = High