When considering popular plants for Louisiana’s spring landscapes, it is essential to choose species that can tolerate the hot southern summers, while adding beauty to your outdoor living spaces. Steven of Quality Landscape has a few favorites that are his go-to plants, including Zinnias, a heat and drought–tolerant annual that is resistant to pests. Another is Mexican Heather, which is also drought-tolerant and perfect for hot, dry summers. Japanese Maples, Encore Azaleas and roses are also great choices for adding beauty and color. Some other drought-tolerant plants that can beat the summer heat and add color to your outdoor living space include the Butterfly Bush, Sunshine Ligustrum, Lantana, and Dwarf Vitex.

Shade-loving plants thrive in partial to full shade, making them perfect for creating cool and inviting spaces in your garden. Some shade-loving plants that are well-suited for Louisiana’s warm season include: – Impatiens – Caladium – Coleus (that also comes in a sun-loving variety) – Dianellas. These plants not only offer respite from the heat but also add texture, color and visual interest to shaded areas of your outdoor living space. By carefully selecting a combination of plants, you can create a diverse and resilient landscape that flourishes throughout Louisiana’s prime spring landscape planting season and into the hot summer months.