University of Colorado Denver - Anschutz Medical Campus
OP-T2-19: Native Plants

Within the UCD|AMC Physical Campus planning and design guidelines there are two goals with corresponding guidelines within section 2.13 ‘Landscape Guidelines’ that prioritize the use of native, and xeriscape plants. Please see also the Tier-two credit listing under ‘Water’ for the list of xeriscape friendly plants. “Goal F: Appropriate application of turf and plant material based on use of surrounding space. It is encouraged to reduce overall water use within the design by incorporating drought tolerant species, aiding in the creation of a durable landscape. All new designs are to have plants categorized according to water use, or ‘Zone’. In addition, ‘Levels’, categorizing different areas on Campus, are to be applied to all new designs. 1. Guidelines - Required: a. Organize planting palette into ‘Zones’ based on each plant’s irrigation water usage. o 1) Zone 0 plants (Very High water use): 1.5”-2” water per week o 2) Zone 1 plants (High water use): 1” water per week o 3) Zone 2 plants (Moderate water use): .” water per week o 4) Zone 3 plants (Low water use): .” water per week b. Apply hierarchy of Levels to Campus Areas. It is encouraged to use zone 2 & 3 plants in any Level wherever possible. Goal P: Perennials and annuals are to be planted to enhance specific sites. 1. Guidelines - Required: a. Select species that can survive the site-specific environmental conditions. “