Since that is a very large question and you are coming from a climate that could not be more opposite of here, I would suggest checking out the Colorado State Extension website for ideas. The Plant Select website has a great list of plants that are compatible with Colorado.

Shop the local garden centers and maybe check out some public gardens in the area to see what you like.

Also check the USDA zone map for what zone you will really be. Colorado Springs is quite large and has some variation in elevation, so need to be sure. Then generally exercise caution for a while until you get the lay of the land.

Keep in mind that anything that says "full sun" may or may not take the full sun here.

Come to a swap! There will be one in the Fall. Lots of good information and plants there. Keep asking lots of questions. Pick a plant and ask whether it will do well here or not.

Welcome to Colorado! You can still grow some of your old friends from Florida as well but you may have to put them outside in the summer and bring them inside in the Fall. Lots to learn!

I don’t know much about trees or shrubs, but I just wanted to say welcome to Colorado! When are you making the move? When will you be putting in whichever trees and shrubs you pick?

i second popmama’s suggestion about using the CSU Extension office (and website) they are super friendly and helpful.

Frankly, if it was me, I'd ignore the busybodies in the HOA and plant the minimum I could get away with per the approved plan. Then I'd give it one full year to see how the sun moves around the property and especially to look around your neighborhood, see what you like and what appears to do well, consult with some neighbors (and folks on here) who are into such things, and then make your selections. In my experience, when planting more permanent stuff like trees and shrubs, patience is a virtue. Don't let yourself be bullied into bad, expensive choices so early in the game.

Welcome, Nay!

I second the suggestions to visit local nurseries and the CSU extension website. One thing to consider is the timing of the planting. We're getting to the end of the ideal time to plant trees and shrubs. April/early May and September/early October are optimal planting times here. That doesn't mean you can't plant during the summer, but you'll be hand watering through the season. Lawn sprinklers just won't be enough for proper watering of the large transplants the HOA is requiring.

Another reason to visit a nursery is get an idea of just how large and heavy a 2.5 caliper and an 8' evergreen will be. They could weigh several hundred pounds. Measure the root balls of the trees when you buy and dig the holes twice as wide but no deeper and preferably an inch or two shallower than the top root of the tree. On balled and burlap trees there are often several inches of soil mounded at the top of the roots and you'll need to remove that to find the true root flare of the tree, which should be at or above grade at planting. Dig the holes before the trees are delivered and see if the nursery will agree to take them to the planting hole and drop them in for you. Save your back!

It sounds like you aren't in Colorado yet? Go through the CSU recommended tree and shrub lists for the size of plants at maturity to narrow down your choices. Google images to see what you like. When you get here, take note of what those plants really look like in person.

We're glad you found us!

Barb

Colorado Springs has an excellent Xeriscape Demonstration Garden/Site. So, check that out to get some visual references on plant materials you like. Plus, you'll know these are adapted to the soil and (minimal) water requirements within the city.