Although the Burr oak is slow growing, it is one of the most stately, majestic trees in our area. The Gamble oak is a native that does have its problems, but once established, it can survive on the sparse moisture Mother Nature provides. The hackberry and Kentucky coffee tree are becoming a bit more popular, mostly for their resistance to pests and their ability to adapt to many soil and growing conditions. They are both moderate growers, with the hackberry reaching heights of 40 feet, and the Kentucky coffee tree about 60 feet. When planting these trees in a bed, it is nice to plant a few shrubs around them, he says.
Shrubs help bring proportion to the landscape.
Barberrys come in red, pink and purple, he adds. They do have thorns and are not considered to be a friendly plant. Both barberry and sumac have wonderful fall color. The one problem with sumacs is their desire to send up new plants around those that are already established. Junipers come in all sizes, colors and shapes.