Top 10 Warm Season Perennials in Baton Rouge

Today on the Landscape King podcast, we delved into the top 10 warm season perennials for Baton Rouge, Louisiana. I began by explaining the difference between perennials and annuals, emphasizing that perennials come back year after year.

First on the list was plumbago, a tropical plant that typically returns each season, boasting beautiful blue and white flowers perfect for adding color to flower beds. Next, we discussed lantana, known for its various colors and sizes, with the yellow variety being a favorite due to its vigorous growth.

Moving on, we explored perennial salvia, particularly the purple variety which complements bedding plant areas. Mexican heather, a type of kufia, was also highlighted for its consistent return each year. Variegated flaxseed, known for its green and white foliage, was lauded for adding visual interest to landscapes.

Blue days, though sometimes considered an annual, was commended for its striking blue flowers and its potential to perennialize in certain conditions. Foxtail fern, which returns consistently each year, was praised for its unique appearance that adds texture to dense shrub landscapes.

Cuban gold Duranta, popular for its bright foliage color, was noted for its annual return in many yards. Gumfrina, with its purple-pink flowers, was described as a loose-shaped plant that also tends to return yearly. Lastly, Coneflowers or Echinacea, in various colors and varieties, were highlighted as reliable perennials.

Additionally, we introduced the concept of a plant of the week segment, featuring Distillium and knockout and drift roses in previous episodes. The drift rose, known for its continuous blooming from spring to fall, was singled out for its low maintenance compared to other rose varieties.