The New Year is here and planting season is just around the corner. This spring, I’ll be showing you some of the hottest new plants from all over the world. But now I want to remind you of five of the prettiest native plants we can grow.
Soon to be blooming is the Louisiana phlox. Even though we call it Louisiana phlox, its fragrant, iridescent blue flowers are native throughout the South, and they will liven up any landscape.
Another blue flower to consider is the Stokes Aster. The Stokes Aster starts blooming in early summer. Its bloom is among the most exotic found on any plant.
If fiery red is your favorite color, then the Spigelia or Indian Pink is a must for your garden. This tropical-looking native has a tubular bloom that opens to reveal a yellow star shaped tip. This perennial loves moist soil in filtered light.
Just a little later in the year, summer roadsides and gardens will come alive with rudbeckias or black-eyed susans. Use these for large drifts of color, and combine them with blue flower perennials like salvia.
Lastly is a plant with the unfortunate name, Joe Pye Weed. This native is related to the chrysanthemum. It produces huge rose-pink clusters of flowers that are adored by swallowtail butterflies.
These native perennials will return faithfully each year, and they’re most worthy of a spot in your landscape. I’m Norman Winter for Southern Gardening.