SHREVEPORT, La. — Not all perennials are created equal, and for gardeners in the ArkLaTex, choosing the right varieties can mean the difference between blooms that return year after year and plants that disappear after a single season.
At Akin’s Nursery, owner Jennifer McGimsey says while many plants are labeled as perennials, only a select few consistently withstand the region’s climate.
“There’s lots of different varieties of lantana, but one that is really reliable is the New Gold lantana,” McGimsey said. “It’s going to come back year after year.”
She also points to Homestead Purple verbena as another dependable option. While several verbena varieties may survive, she says this one stands out for its consistency.
In the salvia family, Mealy Cup sage is considered a go-to choice for gardeners looking for a perennial they can count on to return each season.
Understanding plant hardiness zones is key when selecting long-lasting plants. McGimsey explains that labels often include zone information, which indicates the climate conditions a plant can tolerate.
“A lot of your verbena will say zone nine,” she said. “We’re zone eight, so in some winters you might lose it. But these varieties are hardy — they’re going to make it through.”
For local gardeners, paying attention to those details — and choosing proven performers — can help ensure a yard full of color that comes back year after year.
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