Grasslands are a natural feature of the Colorado plains.
Trees are sparse in these areas due to the seasonality and low levels of rainfall, amounting to only 14 inches in many parts of the state. The rainfall we do receive is unevenly distributed throughout the year. Although rainfall can, to some extent, be supplemented through irrigation, climate limits the type of trees that grow, particularly in a landscape where saving water is a goal. Bur oak, bigtooth maple, common hackberry, Kentucky coffee tree, thornless honey locust and western catalpa are examples of deciduous trees that are adapted to xeriscapes. Note that all trees require adequate water during the minimum two-year establishment period.