Planting Guide
Bedding PlantsPerennials
Perennials are plants that appear year after year without reseeding or replanting. They may die to the ground during part of the year, but return to full form when their season returns. A few cold sensitive perennials should be used as annuals in northern parts of the county or may require additional mulching to protect the root system from freeze damage during the winter. Ask your Certified Professional for more details on how a particular perennial will perform in your area.
Mexican Bush Sage
Long, slender, velvety purple or deep rose flower spikes with small white flowers in fall. Rose and deep rose-purple forms available. Full sun to partial shade works best for this low water use plant. Average size is 3-5" tall and wide. Excellent cut flowers.
Mexican Marigold Mint
Clusters of golden yellow flowers from fall until first frost. Place this low water use plant in full sun; it is very drought tolerant. Plant averages 18-24" high and 12-18" across. Leaves have a pleasing anise-like scent when crushed. Native to Mexico where foliage is used for teas and seasoning.
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Mexican Petunia
Lavender, petunia-like blooms from spring to frost. Plant this low-water plant in full sun to partial shade. Among the many different types are "Blue Shade", a ground cover variety and "Katie", a small, bushy, clumpy variety. Can grow anywhere from 8-30" high and 12-14" across.
Pentas
Beautiful clusters of pink, violet, red or white blooms from summer through fall. Plant can be 2-3" high and should be spaced 18-24" apart. Plant in partial sun; it will benefit from afternoon shade. Remove spent flowers for season-long bloom. Star-shaped flower clusters attract butterflies.
Purple Heart
Also know as a Wandering Jew, this plant is prized for its beautiful foliage and tiny pale pink to deep purple flowers from spring through summer. Foliage colors best in full sun; plant 12-18" apart. Purple Hearts are very easy to grow, and attract butterflies
Rock Rose
Beautiful single, rose-pink flowers from spring through fall. This Texas native is extremely drought tolerant. Plant in full sun to partial shade spaced 2-3" apart. Periodic shearing keeps the 2-3" plant compact and in flower.
Rose Mallow/Hardy Hibiscus
Huge, dramatic flowers in red, white, or pink, often with a contrasting eye from summer to frost. The blooms on this 3-6" plant may reach 8-12" across. Plant in full to partial sun, spaced 3-4" across. This is a low water use perennial and will tolerate heat and drought.
Rosemary
Small clusters of light lavender-blue flowers spring through fall. Prostate and upright varieties average available averaging anywhere from 1-3" tall. Full sun to partial shade works well for this plant that endures hot sun and poor soil with the watering once established. Plant 12-18" apart and pinch tips to control growth and to keep compact.
Russian Sage
In summer, spikes of lavender-blue flowers are borne among gray foliage. Prune the 3-4" tall plant occasionally during summer to keep shape and promote flowering. Will tolerate some drought, and thrives in heat and full sun. When planting space 2-3" apart.