Louisiana summers bring the heat and humidity that’s almost too much to handle. We’ll be going over some basic care tips for these beautiful flowering plants, as well as some lesser-known alternatives for those a little bored with the usual Tropicals.
Hibiscus plants come in many shapes, colors, and aesthetics. The classic red, white, pink, and yellow have always served Louisiana residents well, but new varieties have opened the flood gates to truly astounding color variations. Cajun Hibiscus from DuPont mix and match colors and flowering types to give you endless possibilities and are exclusive to our nursery chain. If you’re really looking to change up your yearly routine, you can even find hibiscus in huge vining or tree varieties. Whatever you choose, hibiscus needs all the direct sun and water you can give them. Trees need a bit more, vines need just a little less, but they all do best when hydrated!
Mandevilla plants are a vining tropical that come in the same traditional color patterns as hibiscus. The flowers are a bit smaller but usually more plentiful. Mandevilla, unlike hibiscus, does not need to or can’t handle too much water. Soil should normally be dry, the occasional watering should be thorough, just less often. Mandevilla comes in tree form under the same name, but their more compact shrub counterpart has become extremely popular. So much that the name Dipladenia is more recognized when describing the bush form of a Mandevilla. Like all Tropicals, they need all the sunlight you can give them!
What if you’re looking for something different? Gardeners have been putting down the previously mentioned three Tropicals forever in Louisiana, so here’s one more of my favorite Tropicals!
Alamanda bush (pictures bottom right) is an amazing alternative to other Tropicals because they produce bright flowers, they come in two types, and they profusely bloom. Alamanda can come in a more compact, slow-growing version or a larger version with faster growth. Both provide a unique look and are sure to get gardeners asking you about this fresh tropical! They’ll take moderate watering and full sun.
