script my shrubbery

Sorry if this has been mentioned before.
I didn't know how to search for it.
I'd really like to put scripts and other items into ferns and palmtrees and such to create a more organic feel to my high tech environments.
I know I could use small objects and such but I have a very low prim area that I wanted to feel natural with trees and bushes but they take away from my prim count and don't serve any functionality.
Is there a reason that this is the case?
Or am I completely alone on this one?

Trees (etc.)

1. Count towards prim count
   
2. Can't be linked to
   
3. Can contain scripts, notcards, or objects
   
4. Animate in a precise fassion to look like they are blowing in the wind but don't nessesarily wave in or out of sync with any other 'plant'
   

I think that's it.