After the harsh winter weather we’ve had, your garden is probably not in the best shape. Not to worry. Spring is finally here and with it the chance to add new, colorful spring flowers. But what should you plant? Might we suggest going native? Native plants have evolved to thrive in local conditions, meaning they’re not only tough but also fantastic for supporting local ecosystems. Think of them as your garden’s best allies, offering resilience and beauty with minimal effort. Let’s dig into some of Texas’s finest garden gems:
Texas Lantana
Texas Lantana is a true showstopper. With its clusters of fiery red, orange and yellow blooms, this plant isn’t just eye-catching; it’s also a magnet for butterflies and hummingbirds. Talk about a win-win! But beauty does come with some needs. To ensure your lantana stays as vibrant as your favorite fiesta, plant it in a sunny spot with well-draining soil.
Black-eyed Susan
Black-eyed Susans are like bursts of sunshine in your garden, radiating warmth with their vibrant yellow petals and striking dark centers. These charming flowers are incredibly resilient and perfectly suited for the Houston area. Thriving in full sun, they prefer well-draining soil to keep their roots happy. Once established, Black-eyed Susans are remarkably low maintenance, making them an excellent choice for both novice and experienced gardeners.
Turk’s Cap
Turk’s Cap is a unique option, thanks to its blooms that resemble tiny turbans. These eye-catching flowers, usually in shades of red, are not just a treat for the eyes, they’re also a magnet for hummingbirds. Turk’s Cap thrives in conditions ranging from part shade to full sun, making it incredibly versatile. It adapts well to different types of soil but needs well-draining soil to truly flourish.
Mexican Heather
Mexican Heather, with its delicate purple flowers and fine foliage, is the epitome of garden elegance. Ideal for filling those tricky gaps, this plant provides a splash of color almost year-round. What’s fantastic about Mexican Heather is its versatility. It thrives in full sun but also handles partial shade like a champ. While this plant is fairly drought-tolerant once established, giving it regular water will reward you with even more abundant flowers. Think of it as a low-maintenance companion that pays back in beauty.
Gulf Coast Penstemon
Gulf Coast Penstemon is a native treasure, boasting tubular blooms in shades of pink, purple or white that bring a touch of elegance to any garden. These vibrant flowers are a magnet for bees and butterflies, ensuring your garden buzzes with life. Ideal for full sun, they thrive best in well-draining soil. While they handle drought conditions well, a little watering during particularly dry spells will help them flourish even more.
Purple Coneflower
Purple Coneflower is a great option with its daisy-like blooms that come in shades of purple and pink. These hardy perennials are both beautiful and easy to care for, making them perfect companions to Black-eyed Susans or Gulf Coast Penstemon. Plus, they’re a hit with pollinators like bees and butterflies.
Eastern Red Columbine
For something a little different, try adding a few Eastern Red Columbine plants. Their unique, red and yellow bell-shaped flowers add an exotic touch, while also being a favorite of hummingbirds. They do well in partial shade, making them a versatile addition.
Texas Sage
Texas Sage, with its silvery leaves and bursts of lavender flowers, can provide a striking contrast and texture to your garden. It’s drought-tolerant and thrives in the full sun, making it another low-maintenance superstar.
Plant a Marvida Garden
Looking for a new home for your garden? Why not check out Marvida? We’ve got beautiful homes with backyards just waiting for a knowledgeable green thumb. Visit us today.
