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Best Plants to Grow in New Orleans, Louisiana

New Orleans is a city rich in history, culture, and, best of all, plants! Thanks to its warm, humid climate and long growing season, the Crescent City is a paradise for tropical plant gardeners. Whether you’re an experienced gardener or a first time plant parent, knowing the best plants to grow in New Orleans can help you cultivate a thriving garden.

Best Plants for New Orleans Gardens

New Orleans’ climate allows for a diverse range of plants to flourish. Let’s explore some of the best options for your garden, including native plants that support local wildlife, tropical plants that bring bold color and texture, and trees that provide shade and structure.

If you’re looking for exotic plants that add a bold, tropical touch to your New Orleans garden, consider these top choices:

Bird of Paradise (Strelitzia reginae & Strelitzia nicolai)

Hibiscus (Hibiscus rosa-sinensis)

  • Large, colorful flowers that bloom from late spring to early winter.
  • Grows best in full sun and requires regular watering.
  • Available in multiple colors: pink, yellow, orange, red, and multicolor.

Mandevilla Vine

  • Trumpet-shaped flowers with a gardenia-like scent.
  • Blooms from spring to fall. Colors available are red, pink, peach, yellow, and white.
  • Ideal for trellises, fences, or as a climbing vine.

Bougainvillea

  • Vibrant, long-lasting blooms in pink, red, orange, and purple.
  • Prefers full sun and well-drained soil.

Adding native New Orleans plants to your landscape makes gardening low-maintenance while also supporting local wildlife. Here are some standout choices:

Louisiana Iris (Iris brevicaulis)

  • The state wildflower of Louisiana, blooming in purple, pink, and white.
  • Thrives in moist or boggy soil.
  • Perfect for adding springtime color.

Gulf Coast Penstemon (Penstemon tenuis)

  • Produces pinkish-purple blooms in spring.
  • Drought-tolerant and attracts pollinators.
  • Grows well in full sun to partial shade.

Spider Lily (Hymenocallis littoralis)

  • Large, white, spider-like flowers.
  • Prefers well-drained soil and moderate watering.
  • Grows in full sun to part shade.

Louisiana Phlox (Phlox divaricata)

  • Produces lavender-blue flowers in spring.
  • Ideal for shaded garden areas.
  • Prefers moist, well-drained soil.

For those looking to add shade and structure to their garden, consider these best trees to plant in New Orleans:

Southern Magnolia (Magnolia grandiflora)

  • Louisiana’s state tree, known for its fragrant white blooms.
  • A medium-sized evergreen tree, perfect for providing shade and privacy.

Mock Orange (Philadelphus coronarius)

  • A large shrub with crisp white flowers.
  • Some varieties have a strong fragrance similar to magnolias.
  • Easier to maintain than a magnolia, making it a great alternative.

New Orleans Garden Styles & Landscaping Ideas

New Orleans is known for its distinctive garden styles, from lush balcony gardens to formal courtyard displays. Here are some ways to design your space:

French Quarter Balcony Gardens

Marigny Courtyard Gardens

  • Small garden spaces with vibrant planters and playful decor.
  • Tourist Tip: Add personalized yard art and color-coordinate with flowering plants.

Formal Downtown Planters

  • Seen in Canal Street, these elegant iron planters feature pyramid boxwoods, kalanchoe, and ivy.
  • Tourist Tip: Stick to a simple color palette for a formal, sophisticated look.
New Orleans Plant Zone

What Plant Zone is New Orleans?

Before selecting plants, it’s essential to understand the New Orleans planting zone. The popular Louisiana city is in USDA Hardiness Zone 9b. This means that both tropical and subtropical plants thrive here year-round! New Orleans mild climate allows for a diverse selection of both native and tropical plants, giving you your pick of what to plant.

If you’re looking for native plants, many plant nurseries in New Orleans offer options suited to the city’s climate. However, if you’re looking for high-quality, farm-fresh tropical plants, Tropical Plants of Florida ships directly from our nursery in South Florida to your doorstep, ensuring your plants arrive in excellent condition.

Where to Buy Plants in New Orleans

If you’re looking for a plant nursery in New Orleans, you have plenty of options. However, if you want the best tropical plants shipped directly to your door, Tropical Plants of Florida offers farm-fresh, high-quality plants that arrive healthy and ready to thrive.

For customers who prefer shopping locally, here are a few places to find plant stores in New Orleans:

  • Local nurseries in New Orleans: Great for native species and seasonal plants.
  • Plant shops in New Orleans: Ideal for houseplants and smaller garden additions.
  • Online plant delivery: Convenient and ensures premium-quality tropical plants.
Buy Plants New Orleans

Best Plants for New Orleans: Our Final Recommendations

New Orleans’ warm climate and rich soil make it a gardener’s paradise. Whether you’re planting native species, tropical plants, or trees, choosing the right ones will help you create a stunning and thriving garden.

Looking for the best plants to grow in New Orleans? Tropical Plants of Florida ships high-quality, fresh tropical plants straight from our family nursery to your doorstep. Explore our collections today and bring a touch of tropical beauty to your New Orleans garden!

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