Wednesday, February 12, 2025

Gardening: Be a gardening superstar with Texas SuperStar Plants

By Karen Gibson

The Texas SuperStar Plant Program provides an excellent source for thoroughly researched plants of all types that are suitable to North Texas.

The need for the program was identified in the early 1970s and 80s when most plants recommended for our area, and most of Texas, were more suitable for northern climates or Europe.

Texas needed plants that could survive our weather extremes – from heat to prolonged drought to heavy rainfalls. We needed plants that could grow in a variety of soils and pH ranges.

As a result, a partnership was formed through the Texas A&M Research and Extension offices and San Antonio nurserymen. Several growers grew and researched the plants in the beginning stages of program development.

The program began with the Texas Bluebonnet, Lupinus texensis in 1989, and has grown into more than 88 perennials, annuals, fruits, vegetables, and specialty plants. Each one is trialed across various Texas locations using the Earth-Kind system combining the best principles of traditional/conventional and natural/organic gardening and landscaping practices.

Some of the many qualities of any SuperStar plant include an overall attractive appearance, appeal to the average homeowner regardless of their gardening expertise and be as pest resistant as possible.

Texas SuperStar labels include educational and cultural information to ensure proper plant care by the consumer. If there are any limitations, those will be mentioned also.

The following is a short list of plants from that have proven to be successful in our area. For more detailed information and the entire plant list, refer to the official Texas Superstar website, texassuperstar.com.

Annuals: Vinca “Cora” Series periwinkle; Tidal Wave Petunia; Whopper Begonias

Perennials: Henry Duelberg Salvia; New Gold Lantana; John Fannick Perennial Phlox

Woody Shrubs: Belinda’s Dream Rose; Lynn’s Legacy Cenizo; ‘Blue Angel’ Shrub Althea

Specialty Plants: Arctic Frost Mandarin Hybrid; ‘Balsamic Blooms’ Basil; ‘Dwarf Cherry Surprise’ or BHN 968 Tomato

Texas SuperStar is a registered trademark owned by Texas A&M AgriLife Research. Texas SuperStar plants are selected by the Texas Superstar executive board, consisting of nine horticulturists from AgriLife Research, AgriLife Extension and Texas Tech University.

Do your own research and look for Texas SuperStar plants to try in your own garden this year!

Happy Gardening!

CTG Staff
CTG Staff
The Cross Timbers Gazette News Department

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