Evaluation of Native and Exotic Woody Plants Under Severe Environmental Stress

Abstract

Revegetation and landscaping with trees and shrubs in low maintenance areas of limited rainfall are continuing challenges. A planting of 95 woody species in San Antonio, Texas resulted in survival of 22 natives and exotics after two growing seasons. No irrigation was used beyond initial establishment. There were no significant differences in survival rate between native and introduced species. Survivors are deemed worthy of use in land reclamation and in urban forestry projects requiring drought hardy trees and shrubs in the Southwest.